The archipelago of the Columbretes Islands is a natural park of volcanic origin of great ecological value in plants and animals and is located 27 nautical miles from Alcossebre, Castellon.

The four small volcanic islands of La Isla Grande, La Ferrera, La Forada and El Bergantin extend over three nautical miles and were declared a natural park in 1990.

The forms of the islands, carved by the wind into all sorts of shapes, has created a fascinating landscape.

The islands is popular with divers. The numbers of are strictly controlled by the authorities to preserve the fragile ecosystem, only 50 people per day are permitted.

You can go to the islands from Las Fuentes Marina for a day trip for diving which costs 95 Euros or as a tourist 85 Euros. Depart at 08:00 and return at 18:00. You can rent equipment for diving here too.

Since 1988 the archipelago has been declared a Natural Park, appreciated by some sea birds as an optimal place for their reproductive activities.

There are no constructions in it, except for a jetty, a 19th century lighthouse, and the installations used by the biologists working in the natural park.

The main islets are Illa Grossa (or Columbrete Grande), La Ferrera, La Foradada and El Carallot. The total emerged area of all four is around 0,19 km² and the highest peak 67 meters high.

The local colony of Audouin's Gulls (which is a species listed as Near Threatened globally) is one of the most important in the world and key to the species ongoing recovery in the Spanish Mediterranean.

The islets are also home for one of the major stable populations of Eleanora's Falcon in Spain. Due to its isolation, the islands are inhabited by an endemic species of small lizard.

Besides, the islets are very important during Spring and Autumn bird migrations, since many different species who follow the Spanish Mediterranean coast in the course of their migration use them as a brief stop in order to rest. The submerged area is as much relevant in terms of conservation and it covers 400 km² where an important community of submarine wildlife thrives undisturbed.

It became protected as a Marine reserve in 1990. The largest island, Illa Grossa, stands in the place of an ancient crater and so it shows a distinctive semi-circular pattern.