Testa di Polpo and Cava Francese: La Maddalena's Wildest Beaches
In this guide
The beaches of Cava Francese and Testa di Polpo are among the wildest on the island. Much of La Maddalena is a protected area within the National Park. Among its less-visited coves, Testa di Polpo and Cava Francese deserve a special place in any itinerary.
Cava Francese
The name recalls the history of the area. Today it is a small bay of rare beauty, with clear water and a natural setting that has remained almost untouched.
Testa di Polpo
Not far away, Testa di Polpo takes its name from the shape of the rocks that frame it. This stretch of coast is rockier than the archipelago's fine-sand beaches, but that is exactly why it offers different views, ideal for those who like to explore calmly away from the crowds of the best-known spots.
How to get there
Both are on the island of La Maddalena and can be reached by road followed by a short walk; you can also get there by sea, with a dinghy or a boat. Some stretches can also be reached on foot along the island's trails, best tackled with hiking shoes and plenty of water.
A tip: combine them with a wider tour
Since they are close to each other, many visitors include them in a longer boat trip along with other coves of the archipelago. We cover this in detail in our article on the most beautiful coves to see by boat in La Maddalena, or see the guide to less crowded beaches if you are looking for other quiet alternatives.
Respect the protected environment
As they lie within the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park, the general protection rules apply: do not leave rubbish, do not take sand or shells, and take care of the dune vegetation, which is particularly fragile in these less-visited areas.
Start from Il Maestrale
Whether you choose the sea or the trail, Il Maestrale is a convenient starting point for reaching both coves.
Frequently asked questions
Where are Testa di Polpo and Cava Francese?+
Both are on the island of La Maddalena, inside the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park.
Are they sandy or rocky beaches?+
Cava Francese has a stretch of sand, while Testa di Polpo has a rockier, more scenic coastline.
How do you get there?+
By road followed by a short walk, or by sea with a dinghy or a boat; some stretches can also be reached along the island's trails.
Can you visit them together with other coves in one day?+
Yes, they are often included in a longer boat trip that also takes in other coves of the archipelago.
Written by Francesco
Host of Il Maestrale
Has been coming to La Maddalena since 2004 and still discovers something new every year. These guides collect the tips Francesco gives the guests of Il Maestrale.
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