The Isola di La Maddalena is the largest one in the archipelago that bears its name, located in the northeastern part of Sardinia. Rich in coves, beaches and inlets along the coast, within it one can admire a gentle hilly landscape.
La Maddalena is one of the most captivating places in Sardinia and a strategic starting point for visiting the other islands of the archipelago and the splendid beaches of the area, especially for those who choose to appreciate this earthly paradise with an unforgettable boat excursion.
The history of La Maddalena
La Maddalena was founded in 1770 and for a long time served as a base for the Navy, as evidenced by the presence of the Nino Lamboglia Naval Museum. Its strategic position in the heart of the Mediterranean has led it through a series of vicissitudes, including Napoleon Bonaparte’s attempt to invade, when he was still a mere officer. But the island also attracted the attention of Admiral Nelson, remembered by the eponymous Bay.
The most famous figure in the history of Maddalena and its archipelago is Garibaldi. It is precisely on the island of Caprera, in fact, that the general chose to live his exile and subsequently selected this place as his residence.
La Maddalena Island: what to see
The Island of La Maddalena is traversed entirely by a scenic road of 45 kilometers, which allows you to visit the splendid beaches and coves of the island. Here are some must-see spots and the best beaches on the island.
The town of La Maddalena
The Island of La Maddalena belongs to an archipelago, of which the main island hosts the only inhabited settlement. The narrow and characteristic lanes of the town will guide you in discovering a place that has preserved the spirit and the traditions of yesteryear. We recommend visiting the Parish Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, where a crucifix donated by Admiral Nelson is kept, before moving to Cala Gavetta, the marina’s charming seaside corner.
La Maddalena: the most beautiful beaches
One of the best beaches on the island is Monte d’Arena, with pale sand and facing a crystal-clear sea. Near the village of Case Ornano lies the beach of Bassa Trinità, reachable after a walk of about 500 meters: a reward for the effort, with Caribbean sand and turquoise water. Another beach not to be missed is Testa di Polpo: characterized by the pink granite rock formations typical of northern Sardinia, it is washed by transparent, pristine seas. The last beach we recommend is perhaps the island’s most famous: Cala Spalmatore, a white-sand shoreline especially suitable for families and children.
We recommend exploring the wonders of the Maddalena Archipelago by booking a boat excursion from Palau or La Maddalena, in the company of a local guide. You will have the opportunity to swim, snorkel and sunbathe in a true earthly paradise.
Getting to La Maddalena by ferry
To reach La Maddalena by ferry, you need to go to the Palau port, located just steps from the town center. The main operators are Delcomar and Maddalena Lines, which run frequent connections year-round, with departures every 20–30 minutes in peak season. The crossing lasts on average 15–20 minutes and in summer can reach up to 22 trips per day, with the first ferry around 8:15 and the last around 19:45-20:00.
The price of a one-way ticket for an adult passenger starts from about 3–5 euros, while for vehicles it starts from 10 euros for cars and 5 euros for motorcycles, with surcharges for larger vehicles. Some fares already include the municipal landing fee, which varies from 0.50 euros in winter months to 2.50 euros in summer. Children up to 3 years travel for free, while those up to 11 enjoy a discount.
Tickets can be purchased at the port’s ticket office or online, either on the companies’ websites or on booking platforms, which often offer round-trip packages or discounts for groups and residents.
How to reach Palau
Palau is easily reachable from several locations in northern Sardinia, with scenic road connections that cross coastal and hilly landscapes. Distances vary depending on your starting point:
- from Santa Teresa di Gallura about 24 kilometers;
- from Olbia 40 kilometers and just under 50 minutes of travel;
- from San Teodoro about 65 kilometers in around one hour and a quarter;
- from Alghero, on the opposite coast, the journey is longer as it is about 250 kilometers and a little under 4 hours;
- from Porto Cervo only about 28 kilometers (roughly 35 minutes) to reach Palau.
How to move around on La Maddalena Island
To explore the beauties of La Maddalena, the most convenient means of transport is certainly the car. This way, you’ll be able to move autonomously and easily reach the island of Caprera, which is connected by a bridge. Alternatively, you can join an organized tour or rent a scooter.
During the summer, moreover, an autobus service connects the main beaches and towns, ideal for those who prefer to leave the car at the hotel and enjoy the trip without worries.
