Free walking tours in Islantilla and what to see

Must-sees

Islantilla is a recent resort shared by the municipalities of Lepe and Isla Cristina, on the western coast of Huelva. It was designed for relaxation and it shows: low-rise developments, lots of greenery, a large golf course and a long beach of fine sand with calm water. The promenade is easy for walking or cycling, and cycle routes run through the area to neighbouring towns.

The interesting sights are nearby. Isla Cristina has a very busy fishing port, with its fish market and restaurants, and the Isla Cristina Marshes nature area, with salt pans and birds. Lepe is a few minutes inland. To the west, Ayamonte looks over the Guadiana, and from there you can take a boat across to Vila Real de Santo António, in Portugal. To the east are La Antilla and El Rompido.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free tours in Islantilla. The usual options are guided visits and excursions from here. Among the most interesting are boat trips through the marshes or on the Guadiana, guided birdwatching walks in the salt pans and day trips to the Columbus sites, with La Rábida, the Wharf of the Caravels and Moguer. Trips also run to the Portuguese Algarve, Doñana and Seville, all within reasonable distance.

How long to spend

Islantilla is a place to stay a while, so most people spend several days. With three or four you have time for the beach and a couple of trips. Give an afternoon to Isla Cristina and its marshes, another day to Ayamonte with the crossing to Portugal and a full day to the Columbus sites or Seville. If you play golf, keep a morning or two for the course.

Where to stay

The most convenient area is near the promenade and the shopping centre, with the beach, restaurants and services on foot. The developments by the golf course are quieter and usually offer apartments with pools, ideal for families. If you prefer a small-town feel, you can stay in Isla Cristina and come to the beach at Islantilla. In low season everything is very quiet.