The Medes Islands form a marine and terrestrial archipelago of high ecological value and one of the most protected natural areas in the Mediterranean. The group is made up of seven main islets and several rocky reefs that conceal an extraordinary richness of flora and fauna, both on the surface and beneath the sea. Each islet has its own unique character:
La Meda Gran
It is the main and largest island of the Medes archipelago, located right in front of L’Estartit. Covering an area of 18.7 hectares and reaching up to 75 meters in height, it stands out for its old ruined lighthouse and for its great wealth of protected flora and fauna. It is located in the center of the group, slightly shifted to the northeast with respect to the coast.
La Meda Petita
On the northeastern side of Meda Gran lies Meda Petita, which covers 5.3 hectares and rises 33 meters high. It is easily recognizable by its elongated and lower shape. Its surroundings are very popular for kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving thanks to the beauty of its seabeds.
El Carall Bernat
It is the most emblematic and spectacular islet of the Medes. With its almost vertical height of 72 meters, it rises as a slender monolith on the southeast side of the archipelago, separated from Meda Gran and Meda Petita. Its distinctive shape makes it visible from many points along the Costa Brava, and its vertical walls create an underwater environment with a great diversity of habitats.
Les Ferranelles
They are not emerged islands like Meda Gran, but rather rocky outcrops that rise above the sea, highly exposed to wind and waves. Their underwater relief is very interesting: it descends quickly, creating walls, channels, and small underwater passages.
El Tascó Gros
This rocky and irregular islet lies to the south of Meda Gran, between it and Carall Bernat. Its vertical walls plunging directly into the sea give it a rugged and wild character.
El Tascó Petit
Located right next to Tascó Gros, this smaller islet barely rises above the sea. Nevertheless, its underwater environment is extraordinary, making it a highly valued spot for divers and snorkelers.
El Medallot
It is located very close to the southern coast of Meda Gran. Rounded in shape and low in height, it is easily visible from L’Estartit. Its proximity and distinctive silhouette make it a characteristic feature of the seascape of the archipelago.
The protection of this area has made it possible to restore unique ecosystems, where flora and fauna coexist in a fragile yet fascinating balance. The Medes Islands are, without a doubt, a sanctuary of life that must be preserved so that future generations may also enjoy them.