Isla Cristina-Islantilla

Isla Cristina (or simply “Isla” to its inhabitants) is located at the southeast of the European Atlantic next to the mouth of the river Guadiana, 45 kilometres from the capital, in an area of marshes and pine forests, surrounded by the natural area of "Marismas de Isla Cristina" with 12 kilometres of magnificent beaches of fine white sand, mostly unspoilt.

It is mainly a fishing population, which triples in the summer as a result of tourists enjoying the coast, the freetime activities ant its cultural legacy. Famous in all markets are the shellfish, sardines and other fish caught by the fishing fleet which consists of some 300 boats, its fish market also being one of the most important for selling fresh fish in Spain.

In Isla Cristina you can find one of the most important natural enclaves in the province of Huelva: The Marshes of Isla Cristina, which cover 2,145 hectares and were declared a Nature Area in 1989. The large part of the protected area consists of sea marshes, whose vegetation is characterized by its adaptation to the saline environment. Its rich bird life is characterized by those birds which have adapted to the aquatic environment.

The beaches of Isla Cristina, of fine, golden sands, are also part of the natural heritage and cover 12 kilometres of the Huelva coastline. Together with the denominations of Punta del Caimán o Isla de la Gaviota, Playa de El Cantil, Parque Litoral, Caminito Santana, Central, Del Hoyo, Casita Azul, Cruce de La Redondela, Urbasur e Islantilla, Isla Cristina is part of a group of beaches surrounded by a large chain of dunes and pine forests of great ecological value.

The coastline of Huelva has infinite charms, and its beaches are amongst the most sought out by tourists in the summer season. It is only in Isla Cristina, one of the most tourist-orientated areas of the region, that you can find eight clearly defined and differing bathing and recreation zones, eight beaches, each with a different character…choose one.

Map of Isla Cristina-Islantilla

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Islantilla in the municipal district of Isla Cristina y de Lepe) is the tourist complex where urban development and respect for the environment combine perfectly. It is known for all the excellent services offered on this beach by the constant vigilance of the Intermunicipal Joint Management of Islantilla. It was the first stretch of coastline which opened all year round, and Central Europeans were the main beneficiaries.

It need not be said that it is an ideal location for lovers of water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, surfing, motorboating and fishing, amongst other activities. It is also ideal for fans of Golf (Islantilla Golf Club) or, for the more adventurous, bicycling and hiking routes in the heart of our natural areas, or also horse riding.

As regards interesting places to visit, the different churches of Isla Cristina stand out, concentrating on the famous imagery inside of them, such as the church of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores (Patron saint of the village), with the image of the Virgin of Solitude.

Festivities

Standing out as an important festival in Isla Cristina is the famous carnavales in February when for fifteen days groups, street musicians and satirical groups make jokes with their songs about social events and local and national politicians. The islanders also know how to change their habits and hold a remarkable Easter in Marchor April. The most important events in the town are the Festivals such as the Festival of Carmen which takes place in the middle of July.

Source: playasdehuelva.org