La Maddalena is not a "beach and nothing else" destination. It is an island from which some of the most beautiful excursions in the Mediterranean set off: boat tours among the seven islands of the archipelago, trekking on the trails of Caprera, day trips to Bonifacio in Corsica and excursions into the Gallura hinterland. In this guide you will find every option, with practical advice from people who live on the island.
📍 Looking for where to stay in La Maddalena? Discover the Il Maestrale holiday home, about 1.5 km from the centre of La Maddalena: the perfect base to set off every day to explore the archipelago.
Excursions on Caprera
Caprera is La Maddalena's twin island, linked by the Ponte della Libertà bridge and easy to explore by car or bicycle. It is home to some of the most beautiful excursions in the archipelago.
Trekking to Cala Coticcio (the "Tahiti of Europe")
The trail to Cala Coticcio is the archipelago's most famous trek. About 45 minutes on rocky ground with no shade to reach one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Hiking shoes, water and sun protection are essential.
Compendio Garibaldino
The house-museum where Giuseppe Garibaldi spent the last years of his life. The visit takes about an hour and a half between the White House, the museum and the hero's tomb. Paid entry, with a combined ticket for Fort Arbuticci.
Caprera's military forts
The island is home to a network of 19th-century military batteries, including Fort Arbuticci, Fort Poggio Rasu and Punta Rossa. Restored and open to visitors, they offer 360-degree views over the archipelago.
Beaches you can reach on foot
Besides Cala Coticcio, Caprera has Cala Napoletana, Cala Brigantina and Spiaggia del Relitto (Caprera side), all reachable on trails of varying length.
Day trip to Bonifacio (Corsica)
From La Maddalena (via Santa Teresa di Gallura) you can reach Bonifacio in about an hour by ferry. The fortified Corsican town, perched on white limestone cliffs, is one of the best day trips from the archipelago.
What to see in Bonifacio
- The fortified upper town, explored on foot
- The cliffs and caves, visited on a boat tour from Bonifacio
- The Pertusato lighthouse
- The King of Aragon's Staircase, carved into the rock
How to get there
Daily ferries from Santa Teresa di Gallura (reached by car from Palau). Crossing time: about 1 hour. In high season it is best to book in advance.
Day trips into the Gallura hinterland
For those who want to see the authentic face of Sardinia, the Gallura hinterland offers landscapes and traditions completely different from the coast. Tempio Pausania, Aggius, Luogosanto and the Valle della Luna are all about an hour's drive from Palau.
What to do in the Gallura hinterland
- Visit the granite villages (Aggius, Luras)
- Vermentino di Gallura DOCG tastings at local wineries
- Trekking in the Valle della Luna
- Visit giants' tombs and nuraghi
- Traditional Gallura cuisine (zuppa gallurese, malloreddus, pecorino)
Walking excursions on the island of La Maddalena
La Maddalena also has trails and walks that let you discover the island away from the summer traffic.
Scenic trails
- Guardia Vecchia trail (360° views over the archipelago)
- Punta Tegge trail (with its distinctive pink granite boulders)
- A loop of the old town (Cala Gavetta, Piazza Garibaldi, the seafront)
Bicycles and e-bikes
The island is easy to explore by bike. Several rental shops in the centre offer classic bikes, e-bikes and mountain bikes. It is the most relaxing way to explore the island's beaches on your own.
Snorkelling and diving
The archipelago's waters are among the clearest in the Mediterranean and rich in marine life. You can snorkel almost anywhere, but the most beautiful areas are:
- Punta Tegge (granite and colourful fish)
- Cala Coticcio (shallow, crystal-clear water)
- The coves of Spargi (reachable only by sea)
For more demanding dives, there are diving centres in La Maddalena that run daily trips.
When to go on excursions in La Maddalena
| Month | Boat tours | Trekking | Corsica/hinterland trips |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| July | Excellent (book ahead) | Too hot | Early morning only |
| August | Crowded | Not recommended | Early morning only |
| September | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| October | Limited | Excellent | Excellent |
Practical tips for planning your excursions
- Boat tours: book for the first or second day of your holiday. Keep the last day free as a backup in case of bad weather.
- Trekking: set off early in the morning to avoid the heat. Always carry plenty of water (at least 1 litre per person).
- Bonifacio: check the weather: in strong wind the ferry may be cancelled.
- Hinterland: allow at least a full day. Distances are short but the villages deserve time.
- Car: for Caprera, Bonifacio and the hinterland a car is practically essential.
Planning your holiday in La Maddalena?
The Il Maestrale holiday home, about 1.5 km from the centre of La Maddalena, is the perfect base for exploring the archipelago. 5G WiFi, fully equipped kitchen, private parking.
Check availabilityFrequently asked questions about excursions in La Maddalena
How much does a boat tour in La Maddalena cost?+
A half-day tour costs €40-60 per person, a full-day tour €70-100 per person. Private tours start at €400 per boat.
Can you rent a boat without a licence?+
Yes, in La Maddalena you can rent dinghies with engines up to 40 hp that do not require a boating licence. Prices are €200-350 per day.
How do you get to Cala Coticcio?+
Cala Coticcio can only be reached on foot, via a trail of about 45 minutes that starts on Caprera. Suitable shoes and water are essential.
How much time do you need to visit Bonifacio?+
A full day is the minimum. The ferry from Santa Teresa di Gallura takes about an hour. It is best to leave early in the morning and come back in the late afternoon.
Can you do excursions in La Maddalena with children?+
Yes. Half-day boat tours are suitable from age 5. The trek to Cala Coticcio is not recommended for children under 10. The Compendio Garibaldino is suitable from age 8.
What should you bring on excursions in La Maddalena?+
For the sea: swimsuit, towel, SPF 50+ sunscreen, hat, water, snacks. For trekking: closed shoes, plenty of water, sun protection and a windproof layer for exposed trails.