THE TERRITORY OF THE LA MADDALENA ARCHIPELAGO

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the La Maddalena Archipelago! Our team, experienced and passionate, will provide you with a comfortable and reliable experience, prioritising your safety above all else. Discover hidden gems of extraordinary beauty aboard one of our boats or RIBs: come and explore this wonderful corner of natural paradise with us!

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La Maddalena Archipelago
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LA MADDALENA

Archipelago

The La Maddalena Archipelago, composed of numerous islands and smaller islets, is located in the northeast of Sardinia.

Internationally renowned for its beaches, various natural harbours, and Mediterranean scrubland, distinguished by huge granite rocks sculpted by the sea and wind, it lies at the eastern end of the Strait of Bonifacio.


Declared a National Park in 1994 and a protected marine area, the Archipelago includes the islands of Maddalena, Caprera, and Santa Maria, along with smaller uninhabited islets. This offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy all the wonders that this beautiful region encompasses!

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ISLANDS THAT MAKE UP THE ARCHIPELAGO

The Archipelago is composed of a total of 62 islands and islets,



covering an area of approximately 5,134 hectares, while the marine


part extends over about 15,046 hectares.



The main islands are:

  • La Maddalena (Mother Island)

    Gem of the Mediterranean, the Isle of Maddalena in Sardinia is a place overflowing with beauty. From its quaint villages and settlements to charming palaces and numerous squares, it's no wonder this island has been nicknamed "the little Paris". With numerous easily accessible beaches, visitors are sure to discover an unforgettable experience in one of Europe's hidden gems.

  • Caprera

    Paradise of natural beauty, Caprera is connected to La Maddalena by a bridge and has become world-renowned as "the island of Garibaldi". This idyllic gem boasts unique beaches, lush juniper and holm oak forests perfect for hikes or leisurely walks amidst the Mediterranean scrubland. Not to be missed are Garibaldi's symbols such as Cala Coticcio, which have earned it the reputation of an unparalleled dream destination.

  • Spargi and Spargiotto

    Discover the enchanting beauty and unique charm of Spargi, located in an archipelago far from civilisation. The island is renowned for its pristine beaches of white sand that blend perfectly with the emerald waters of the eastern coast, accessible only by boat. Among these paradisiacal locations are Cala Corsara, Granara, and Conneri, three particularly beautiful places that will leave you breathless!

  • Budelli

    On the splendid island of Budelli lies Monte Budello, one of the highest peaks in the archipelago. Tourists come from afar to enjoy the world-renowned Pink Beach, where the abundance of Miniacina miniacea shells gives it an extraordinary hue visible only at sea level. It's truly breathtaking!

  • Razzoli and Santa Maria

    Razzoli and Santa Maria are a natural oasis located northwest of this picturesque archipelago, connected by the Passo degli Asinelli. With magnificent cliffs, known for their wind-carved shapes, and beautiful beaches such as Cala Lunga and Cala Noce - experience an unforgettable break! Moving on to the flatlands of Santa Maria, which reveal some interesting sites like the ancient Benedictine monastery or the Punta Filetto lighthouse, among others. Don't forget to explore stunning coves like Cala di Fosso and Cala Santa Maria, ideal spots for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts!

  • Nibani, Mortorio, Camere e Soffi

    In the southeast of this archipelago lies a group of islets, isolated from human access and protected by their inaccessibility. Facing lush green shores, it is an untouched sanctuary for wildlife.

THE BEST BEACHES

THE BEST BEACHES ON THE ISLAND OF LA MADDALENA

The La Maddalena Archipelago is renowned for its stunning beaches and breathtaking coves. Below are those you can visit independently, while for the other islands, which are more difficult to reach, our boat tours or RIB rentals are available.

  • Spiaggia del Cardellino

    Cardellino Beach is a much-loved spot for those seeking breathtaking views, turquoise waters, and soft white sand. Its crystal-clear shoreline overlooks the picturesque Cardellino Beach, just off the coast, while its sheltered vegetation provides a perfect retreat for families to relax in the sun or shade.

  • Spiaggia di Monti dà rena

    This fascinating beach is truly magical, characterised by spectacular golden sands meeting large granite rocks and the warm Mediterranean scrubland. The deep azure waters project the relief shots to amplify the idyllic landscape, while on the right, you will notice gentle hills of untouched sand - now off-limits as privacy in natural splendour is preferred by everyone.

  • Spiaggia di Bassa Trinità

    Accessible via a scenic wooden pathway through white sand dunes, this extraordinary beach offers a delightful blend of lush Mediterranean scrubland and soft sandy terrain that seamlessly merges into the sea below. The shallow seabed creates stunning variations in hues, from deep blue to sparkling turquoise, while following a secondary path leads to another secluded beach surrounded by a picturesque promontory.

  • Punta Tegge

    Relax and unwind on the picturesque beach of light sand, shallow blue waters, and imposing granite rocks. Enjoy the contrast of vibrant blues as you explore Fort Santa Teresa, built in 1793 to protect the northern coast of the area. With easy access through car parks that separate both sides of this beautiful stretch of coastline, it offers something for everyone, including rockier areas ideal for those looking to escape crowded beaches or provide an easier way to move around, if needed!

  • Le spiagge dell’Isuleddu – Capocchia du purpu (testa del polpo)

    Isuleddu promises a unique outdoor experience for those who visit on foot. Starting the journey at the beginning of the peninsula or just off Testa del Polpo Beach (Capocchia du Purpu), visitors can admire splendid rock formations shaped by wind and sea, allowing them to relax and unwind in tranquil waters. The trails wind around several beaches, offering an easy walk suitable for all fitness levels, while one side is exposed to strong winds, ensuring there is something exciting around every corner!

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THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES ON THE ISLAND OF CAPRERA

Caprera Island, compared to La Maddalena, is much wilder, making it the ideal place for those who want to combine trekking with wonderful sea views. Definitely more pristine and less touristy than La Maddalena, it requires some effort to reach all its most beautiful coves and beaches.

Caprera's beaches are mostly accessible by sea or exclusively on foot.

  • Cala Serena

    A paradise awaits you on Caprera Island's beach! Enjoy a serene 20-minute journey along the scenic Cala Garibaldi trail leading to an exquisite coastline of white, crystalline sand. Embark on the experience of a lifetime!

  • Cala Caprarese

    Ready to explore the beautiful cove of Caprese? Park your car at Garibaldi's Mausoleum and start walking along a 40-minute trail adorned with monumental rocks. Make sure to come prepared: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of snacks and water - there are no dining spots along the way! After conquering the challenge posed by these impressive rocks, you'll be rewarded with picturesque views of crystal-clear waters contrasting with soft white sands, all embraced by the beauty of nature.

  • Cala Napoletana

    Discover the unparalleled beauty of a beach accessible with a mini-trek from Garibaldi's Mausoleum! Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and pristine sand as your gaze follows the fascinating granite rocks framing this elegant pool of perfection. For a more serene environment, venture further to the right to find another lesser-known cove, usually less crowded than Cala Napoletana but equally breathtaking.

  • Cala Coticcio (La Tahiti sarda)

    Discover the beauty of Caprera's iconic Tahiti Sarda! With its dazzling white sands and turquoise, crystal-clear waters, this stunning destination is an absolute must-see. To reach it by land takes approximately 45 minutes, but make sure to bring a guide as access has recently been restricted. Alternatively, take advantage of this beautiful sea to visit it by boat and enjoy an exhilarating swim there too!

  • Cala Brigantina

    Discover the breathtaking views and azure waters of Cala Brigantina, one of the three stunning beaches that make up the La Maddalena archipelago. Accessible by land through an adventurous hike (with a guide booked in advance) or by sea, this oasis offers pristine coves of white sand just waiting to be explored!

  • Spiaggia dei due Mari

    For those looking to venture off the beaten path, Cala Portese is an ideal destination. Located on the tranquil southern side of La Caprera Island, this small cove is characterised by pristine white sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for relaxation or exploration. Accessing it couldn't be easier: just park your car at the "Due Mari" beach before starting a dirt road that leads to its inviting shores - aptly named "the two seas" because the sea is both next to and along some connected beaches to the left.

  • Cala del Relitto

    The Shipwreck Beach is an idyllic seaside paradise, hidden in the rugged terrain of Caprera. Adventurers can hike along one of its trails to experience majestic white sands and azure, crystal-clear waters, all framed by lush Mediterranean vegetation.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

IN LA MADDALENA ARCHIPELAGO

LA MADDALENA ARCHIPELAGO BEYOND THE BEACHES

As mentioned earlier, the Maddalena Archipelago is famous for its wonderful sea and paradisiacal beaches.


However, beyond the beaches, there are multiple activities that can be enjoyed. For example, if you love trekking, you will find many beautiful trails in Caprera. The roads are also great for exploring the islands by bicycle, and, equally importantly, the inland areas with ancient villages rich in history.

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HISTORIC CENTRE OF LA MADDALENA

Having extensively discussed La Maddalena for its natural side, let's now turn to the historical and urbanised part of the island overlooking the wonderful and typical harbour of Cala Gavetta.


An ancient fishing village, with a historic centre characterised by numerous narrow streets (i carrughi) and eighteenth-century buildings.

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    Starting from the harbour, you can admire the Garibaldi Column, a monument dedicated to the Hero of Two Worlds, and Piazza XXIII Febbraio 1793, named after the date marking Napoleon's surrender, thanks to the hero Domenico Millelire. Here, you can see the monument with the original cannonball fired by Napoleon Bonaparte in a vain attempt to conquer the island.


    You can then proceed along Via XX Settembre to reach Piazza Rossa or Piazza del Mercato, where the Town Hall is located, and continue on Via Garibaldi, known for its numerous shops, restaurants, and bars, until you reach Piazza Umberto I, the main square of the island.

    Continue until you reach the roundabout where you will find the Admiralty Anchor dedicated to the Sailors Fallen in War, named so because it is located directly in front of the Admiralty.

GARIBALDINE MUSEUM COMPENDIUM (CAPRERA)

The archipelago is famous for being the final home of Giuseppe Garibaldi, who built the famous "Casa bianca" on Caprera, which today serves as a public museum where you can visit the General's tomb.


In 2012, on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy, the Giuseppe Garibaldi Memorial was inaugurated at Forte Arbuticci, a fortress built around 1890.


The memorial consists of 4 pavilions, each dedicated to a period of the general's life, featuring interactive exhibitions about Garibaldi's life, and offering a splendid panoramic view of the archipelago and the coasts of Corsica.

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TREKKING AND TRAILS IN La maddalena archipelago: caprera

TREKKING TRAILS ON THE ISLAND OF CAPRERA

Caprera is the best island in the archipelago for combining the stunning Sardinian sea with trekking routes and easy walks, all well-marked and suitable for all fitness levels. There are a total of 16 trails, with 14 of them accessible independently. The remaining two, Cala Coticcio and Cala Brigantina, require a guide from the natural park and prior booking.

Our advice is to combine multiple trails in the same day, as most of them take no more than 1 hour to walk.

Alternatively, if you prefer to choose a single route, opt for the one that starts from the Garibaldi Memorial and leads to Cala Caprarese, Cala Napoletana, Cala Crucitta, and finally to the Candeo fortification.

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THE 16 HIKING TRAILS IN CAPRERA

All routes are fairly simple, are well signposted and are divided into nature and historical interest.

  • 1. Conigliera - Duration 1 hour

    Without challenging elevation changes, this one-hour trail will take you on a unique coastal journey. If the tide is low, explore the well-marked paths that hug the picturesque coast of Conigliera and immerse yourself in the stunning landscape of Golfo di Stagnali. However, if the tide is high, beware: you might find yourself walking through marshy waters!

  • 2. Poggio Baccà - Duration 35 minutes

    Take the scenic route for an unforgettable journey! Start your adventure from the Borgo Stagnali parking lot and follow a peaceful trail that will lead you up the beautiful hill. Make sure to undertake this hike only during low tide to fully enjoy this experience!

  • 3. Poggio Rasu - Duration 45 minutes

    Embark on a journey to Monte Rasu, 100 meters high, surrounded by the lush vegetation of Caprera. Along the way, you can spot two milestone batteries - Poggio Rasu Superiore and Poggio Rasu Inferiore - easily reachable by car. If you truly want to explore this extraordinary landscape, venture towards Cala Brigantina with a guide from the Maddalena National Park!

  • 4. Cala Portese - Duration 1 hour 15 minutes

    Take a journey through the Mediterranean landscape and explore the beauty of Portese Bay, starting from its beach. Along the way, you will pass through lush vegetation before discovering a 19th-century military fortress proudly standing in view. Finally, reach the end of this trek along the nature trail or choose to continue on an alternative route around the beautiful Porto Palma!

  • 5. Cala Brigantina - Duration 20 minutes

    Discover the rugged beauty of nature with a guided tour of this hidden and secluded bay. While not a strenuous hike, it's advisable to wear sturdy shoes to navigate the rocky trail in just twenty minutes or less! Prepare for adventure and book your park guide in advance so that nothing stands between you and the breathtaking views.

  • 6. Poggio Zonza - Duration 50 minutes

    Embark on a journey through time, uncovering the rich history of Caprera's early inhabitants. Starting from Forte Arbuticci, take a picturesque trail that ascends to Poggio Rasu, offering a wide view of the Mediterranean scrub, dotted with the ruins of the Corsican house of the Zonza family, nestled among centuries-old remains! Follow the path to the left until you enter a pine forest where the island of Maddalena appears before you as if painted by nature itself. An excursion not soon forgotten!

  • 7. Monte Tejalone - Duration 45 minutes

    Monte Tejalone is the most imposing peak of Caprera, and the hike to its summit begins from the historic Forte Arbuticci. Follow a trail through lush holm oak forests until you reach the top of this majestic mountain, where stunning views await you: from the sparkling urban landscape of La Maddalena below to an impressive panoramic vista above!

  • 8. Fosso Santo Stefano - Duration 1 hour 20 minutes

    Take the scenic route north and join back onto Route 9: you will be rewarded with a picturesque view from the military lookout at Poggio Stefano. Walk through rustic woods, ready to dodge wild boars that may cross your path, before climbing an old granite staircase that will lead you to Fosso Stefano. From there, don't miss the opportunity to discover what else awaits you along Route 9!

  • 9. Poggio Stefano - Duration 40 minutes

    To reach the military lookout of Poggio Stefano, follow the easy and short path of Route 8. It's a sight to behold: huge granite rocks in distinctive formations, including an impressive silhouette resembling a man with his machine gun! Enjoy the breathtaking views that encompass the Coticcio promontory and its coves, Forte Arbucci, and Monte Tejalone, as you revel in the beauty of the island's coastline.

  • 10. Cala Coticcio - Duration 1 hour

    Discover the beauty of Caprera's most famous beach with a guide from the National Park! This one-hour trail will take you to places inaccessible without their assistance. Don't miss the opportunity to explore nature in its truest form!

  • 11. Fortificazione di Candeo - Duration 1 hour 15 minutes

    Hidden among the rugged rocks of Arbuticci lies an incredible fortification, untouched since its creation at the beginning of the 20th century. To reach it requires a daring climb from both Cala Crucitta and Forte Arbuticci: it's not a journey for the faint-hearted!

  • 12. Punta Crucitta – Candeo - Duration 1 hour 35 minutes

    Unveil the mysteries of a picturesque trail winding through granite rocks and Mediterranean scrub! Test your endurance on this challenging route, sure to raise your heartbeat with its rocky terrain full of twists, turns, and ups and downs. At the end, you'll find an informational panel marking a historic trail promising even more secrets to discover...

  • 13. Punta Crucitta - Duration 1 hour 15 minutes

    Come and discover one of Corsica's hidden gems! Take a leisurely stroll through the Mediterranean scrubland and admire breathtaking panoramic views at every turn. Occasionally, you'll encounter tranquil coves or catch glimpses of majestic mountains looming in the distance. Although navigation isn't demanding, an hour-long journey along this melancholic trail will leave an indelible mark on your memory. Plus, you'll have two different options for the return: Cala Napoletana or Forte Candeo (the choice is yours!).

  • 14. Cala Napoletana - Duration 1 hour 15 minutes

    If you're looking for the ultimate journey, this itinerary is the one for you. Enter a world of lush forests, Mediterranean scrubland, and majestic rocks overlooking two stunning beaches: the expansive Cala Napoletana and the small cove. The trail will take you even higher, up to Punta Crucitta, where breathtaking views of the Strait of Bonifacio and the Maddalena Archipelago await!

  • 15. Cala Caprese - Duration 1 hour

    An adventurous route winding through breathtaking landscapes of forests, rocky terrain, and meadows covered with Mediterranean scrubland. The trail quickly narrows as it descends towards Cala Caprese, a stunning hidden bay surrounded by giant boulders - sometimes challenging but made easier with the help of my trusted trekking pole!

  • 16. Cala Serena - Duration 1 hour

    Immerse yourself in the beauty of Cala Garibaldi and Cala Serena with a fun and relaxed route, suitable for all levels. Start your journey from the parking lot or Forte Arbitucci, both offering breathtaking views!

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