Spanish ‘dragon’ island once loved by pirates is like going back in time – and is home to millions of black lizards
A TINY island off the coast of Spain is said to look like a dragon – and was once even used by pirates
Found off the west coast of Majorca, Sa Dragonera island is also a National Park.
It’s name came from it’s shape, with it said to be in the shape of a dragon.
However, you can visit the island, with regular boat trips to and from the mainland.
The island is uninhabited by humans – but is home to millions of black lizards.
Thankfully they are friendly as they are used to human contact, although it is illegal to feed them.
Other animals tourists have spotted include wild tortoise, birds and butterflies
If you don’t fancy an animal trip, then you can also explore the island with a number of walking trails.
One of the popular hiking trails takes tourists past the two 18th century watchtowers, once used by pirates, as well as the museum.
There are also two lighthouses on the island, which first operated back in 1910.
However, nothing has been built since these.
Back in the 1970s, a Spanish company revealed plans to build a huge tourist resort on the island.
This hoped to include a hotel, casino and port, although this was heavily contested and later quashed by local authorities ten years later.
All building activity is now banned on the island.
Previous tourists have raved about the secluded island too.
One person wrote: “One of the most wonderful places on earth I have seen.”
Another said: “Felt like we had gone back in time to when it was inhabited by pirates as it’s still virtually untouched”
The park is open all year, with it open from 10am to 5pm in the summer season and 10am to 4:30pm in the winter season.
However, visitors are advised to take their own snacks and water as there are no shops on the island, although to take all their litter with them as well.
Some tours include a one hour stop off on the island, while some include a 4.5 hour half day trip, so it is worth checking before booking.
If you fancy another Spanish holiday, here is the island that is said to be the cheapest for package holidays this year.
We’ve also found a Spanish island you probably won’t have heard off that was once a pirate refuge.
And the Sun’s Natasha Clark recently visited La Palma – here’s what she thought.
Everything you need to know about visiting Spain
- Brits must have at least three months left on their passport from the day they plan to leave the country.
- Tourists do not need a visa if visiting for up to 90 days in an 180-day period.
- Make sure your passport is stamped on entry and exit.
- Travellers may be asked to show hotel booking confirmations and that they have enough money for their stay at the border.
- Spain is one hour ahead of the UK.
- The country uses the euro with around €10 working out to £8.55.
- Flights to Spain from the UK take between 2-4 hours depending on the destination.