The Maddalena archipelago lies off the northeastern coast of Gallura, reached by ferry from Palau in around half an hour. It is made up of seven main islands — La Maddalena, Caprera, Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli and Santo Stefano — along with dozens of smaller islets and rocks, most of it protected as a national park. La Maddalena itself is the only sizeable town, with a harbour, shops and places to eat, while Caprera is linked by a bridge and known for its pine-lined trails and its connection to Giuseppe Garibaldi.
The rest of the islands are accessible only by boat, whether on a private charter or an organised excursion, and are the main draw for visitors: sheltered coves, turquoise water and beaches that remain largely undeveloped. Reviewers frequently mention swimming, snorkelling and simply taking in the scenery, and note that visiting outside the busiest summer weeks allows for a quieter, more peaceful experience of the coastline.
