La Maddalena: a Mediterranean jewel between history and nature

La Maddalena is much more than just a stopover to explore the archipelago. Discover the island's rich history, its most characteristic corners and the activities you can do during your visit.
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La Maddalena: a jewel to discover in the heart of Sardinia

L'La Maddalena Island and its extraordinary archipelago represent one of the most fascinating destinations in the northern Sardinia. Located in the province of Sassari, this destination offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history and culture that enchants every visitor.

La Maddalena Harbour
La Maddalena Harbour

The La Maddalena Archipelago: a corner of paradise

Natural beauty amid crystal-clear sea and granite rocks

When we think of La Maddalenathe mind flies to beaches with crystal-clear sea, surrounded by a landscape naturalistic extraordinary. Le islands and islets of the archipelago are a natural paradise, with granite quarriescoves and beaches such as the famous Pink Beach by Budellifamous for the unique colour of its sand.

A national park for lovers of biodiversity

L'La Maddalena Archipelago hosts the La Maddalena Archipelago National Parkestablished to protect exceptional biodiversity. Its clear waters are a habitat for posidonia, colourful fish and other marine species. Exploring this national park is an unmissable experience for those who love nature and the sea.

La Maddalena: a fascinating history

Prehistoric origins and medieval settlements

The islands of the archipelago have a very ancient history, with traces of settlements dating back to the Neolithic period. During the Middle Ages, monks and hermits found refuge here, despite raids by Saracen pirates.

From Savoy rule to Garibaldi's exploits

In the 18th century, the archipelago became a strategic outpost for the Kingdom of Sardinia. In 1793, the French revolutionary navy, commanded by Domenico Millelire from Magdalena, repelled a French landing attempt led by a young Corsican officer: Napoleon Bonaparte. This episode consolidated the military importance of the islands.

La Maddalena and Giuseppe Garibaldi

Garibaldi's house in Caprera

L'island of Caprerathe second largest in the archipelago, is famous for being the home of Giuseppe Garibaldiwho spent the last years of his life there. The Garibaldi Compendium is now a museum housing personal items and mementos of the hero of two worlds.

Garibaldino Caprera La Maddalena Compendium
Garibaldino Caprera La Maddalena Compendium

Garibaldi and the link with La Maddalena

Garibaldi bought his house on Caprera in 1856, choosing the island for its beauty and tranquillity. Today, the museum is a must-see for history enthusiasts.

The Maddalena Beaches: the most beautiful ones

Famous beaches and hidden coves

Among the important beaches of La Maddalena, stand out the Pink Beach by Budelli, Cala Spalmatore and Cala Francese. Each beach offers a unique atmosphere, with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery.

Snorkelling and diving in the archipelago

The waters of the archipelago are perfect for snorkelling or diving, thanks to their extraordinary clarity and the wealth of marine fauna.

La Maddalena: what to do, unmissable activities

Boat trips between the islands

A boat tour is without doubt the best way to explore the islands and islets of theLa Maddalena archipelagoincluding Spargi, Budelli, Saint Stephen, Caprera. These trips are a unique experience for those who wish to admire the unspoilt beauty of Gallura and discover hidden coves only accessible by sea.

Where the boat excursions depart from

The Consortium of Wonders boat excursions depart from the Port of Palau, La Maddalena e Baja Sardinia. Tours can be booked online. Tours and depart between 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.scheduled to return in the late afternoon, around 17:00-18:00.

Walks in Caprera and the historic centre

Caprera offers trails naturalistic that lead to places such as the Stagnali, ideal for nature walks. In the historic centre of La MaddalenaInstead, you can discover Cala Gavetta and the Church of St Mary Magdalene, which holds the gifts of Lord Nelson.

La Maddalena: how to visit and move around the island

Getting to La Maddalena: ferries and connections

The archipelago can be reached by ferries from Palau, which make frequent and fast crossings. Once on the island, you can rent cars, scooters or bicycles to explore the area.

Internal connections

To visit islands such as Budelli and Santo Stefano, it is necessary to participate in boat excursions or hire a private boat.

Why choose La Maddalena for your holiday

L'La Maddalena archipelago is a unique destination where nature, history and culture come together in a perfect mix. Whether you are a lover of beaches, history or adventure, you will find everything you desire in this corner of Sardinia.

La Maddalena is renowned for its views, its clear waters and the tranquillity one breathes in every corner. Don't miss the chance to visit this magical place, where every experience will leave you with unforgettable memories.

FAQ on La Maddalena

Where is La Maddalena?

L'La Maddalena Island is located in the northern Sardiniain the province of Sassari. It is part of a wonderful archipelago located a short distance from the coast, opposite Palau.

How do you get to La Maddalena?

You can reach La Maddalena by ferries departing regularly from Palau. The crossing takes about 15-20 minutes and is the most comfortable way to get there.

What are the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago?

Among the most famous beaches are:

  • Pink Beach on the island of Budelli, unique for the colour of its sand (protected and not accessible).
  • Cala Spalmatore on the island of La Maddalena, ideal for relaxation.
  • Coticcio Coveknown as 'Tahiti', on the island of Caprera, with crystal-clear waters.

Need a means of transport to visit La Maddalena?

Yes, hiring a car or scooter is useful for exploring the main island. However, for the other islands and coves that can only be reached by sea, it is necessary to boat excursions.

What is the best time to visit La Maddalena?

The best months are June, July and Septemberwhen the weather is perfect for enjoying the sea. If you prefer less crowds, May e October are good alternatives.

What makes La Maddalena unique?

L'La Maddalena archipelago is famous for its clear waters, the beauty naturalistic, the garibaldine history and the granite quarries. In addition, the area is protected by the La Maddalena Archipelago National Parkwhich preserves its biodiversity.

What to see on the island of Caprera?

The island of Caprera is famous for the Garibaldi Compendiumwhere he lived Giuseppe Garibaldiand for its nature trails. It is also the ideal place to discover unspoilt beaches such as Cala Coticcio.

Are there any special activities to do in the archipelago?

Yes, here are some ideas:

  • Boat Excursions to visit the islands and coves.
  • Snorkelling and diving to explore the seabed.
  • Fishingboarding the boats of local fishermen.

Where to sleep in La Maddalena?

You can choose between hotel, B&Bholiday homes and campsites. Staying close to the port or the centre of La Maddalena is convenient for reaching everything easily.

What is the connection between La Maddalena and Napoleon?

In 1793, during the attempted landing of French troops, a young Napoleon Bonaparte participated in the operation. However, the Sardinians forced to fall backmarking a significant episode in the archipelago's history.

Wonders just a click away

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of the Maddalena archipelago

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