Isola Maddalena

If you’ve arranged a rental car, driving around Isola Maddalena is good fun. For instance, you can visit Cappella della Madonnetta, the perfect place to say a little prayer or take a few panoramic pictures and selfies. Capella della Madonetta, located near Cala Francese on the west coast of the island, faces west, making it an excellent place to witness the sun set behind Isola Spargi. Standing on a granite boulder overlooking the sea, the little chapel was built in 1923 after fishermen found shelter near this inlet after a heavy storm. After many years, this legendary tale has engrained itself into Sardinian culture, and the chapel is still a destination of pilgrimages today. You can reach the chapel by car from the center of La Maddalena by taking the SP14 toward Cala Francese. The drive shouldn’t take longer than 15 minutes. The last few hundred meters will be on a gravel road which is generally in decent condition. There’s a dusty parking area 100 meters behind the chapel.

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Fort S. Andrea Museum is located on a hilltop overlooking the sea and features incredible panoramic views of the surrounding area. Initially built in the 18th century to protect the area from invasion by sea, this historic fort was also used during World War II by the Italian Navy as a base for submarines. In 2003, the fort was restored and converted into a museum to showcase the culture and heritage of Isola Maddalena. The museum features a variety of exhibits that highlight the history and traditions of La Maddalena. Visitors can explore the fort's underground tunnels, which soldiers used to move throughout the fortress undetected. This incredible museum also includes a collection of historical artifacts such as ancient coins, pottery, and military memorabilia. The "Napoleonic Room" is another highlight which displays artefacts and information about the French occupation of the island under Napoleon Bonaparte. Visitors can see original documents and artefacts from the period and a replica of the bed where Napoleon allegedly slept during his visit to the island.



This fascinating museum showcases the island's rich cultural heritage. Located in the historic center, this beautiful 18th-century building was once home to the bishop of La Maddalena and features a long line of religious artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and works of art. One of the highlights of the Museo Diocesano is the "Treasury Room,” which holds a collection of silver and gold chalices, reliquaries, and crosses. The room also contains an 18th-century altar made of marble. The "Cappella del Crocifisso" is another exciting exhibit, and this small chapel houses iconic frescoes and a crucifix that is believed to date back to the 16th century. Visitors to the Museo Diocesano can also learn about the island's history and relationship with the Church. This fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural traditions of the region helps provide a new perspective of La Maddalena and a greater understanding of the island in general. If you are interested in art, history, or culture, the Museo Diocesano is worth the visit and is one of the most exciting things to do in La Maddalena.

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A catamaran trip from Palau to Maddalena is an unforgettable experience with stunning views of the coastline and crystal-clear waters of the Maddalena archipelago. The tour begins in the harbor of Palau, a picturesque town on the northern coast of Sardinia. From this area, you will board a catamaran and sail across the Strait of Bonifacio to the island of Maddalena. During the boat trip, you can relax on deck and soak up the sun while enjoying the breathtaking views. A catamaran is such an enjoyable way to travel, but the truth is, most visitors fall in love with the stunning secluded beaches, turquoise waters, and unspoiled natural beauty on this trip. The captain will occasionally stop to allow you and other guests to snorkel and explore the marine life around the bay. The water is crystal clear so you can expect near-perfect visibility and conditions for swimming and snorkeling. You need not worry about food and drink because spaghetti with wine and other beverages is served for lunch. This full-day boat tour from Palau is popular in Maddalena and begins at 9 am daily.

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