Arcipelago di La Maddalena National Park, Marine national park in Sardinia, Italy
Arcipelago di La Maddalena is a marine protected area off northeastern Sardinia made up of seven main islands and numerous granite islets. The protected zone covers slightly over 12,000 hectares with clear waters and rocky coastlines surrounding each landmass.
The protected area was established in 1994 to preserve this geologically significant landscape. The islands formed when continental separation occurred thousands of years ago, creating the Bocche di Bonifacio strait between Sardinia and Corsica.
The islands hold deep meaning for local communities as a symbol of the sea and Sardinian identity. Visitors encounter fishing traditions and customs that have shaped life here for generations.
The archipelago is reached by ferry from the mainland, particularly from Palau, with regular departures throughout the day. Going early makes sense to enjoy the best hours on the water and explore the most visited islands in calmer conditions.
The granite rocks have developed unusual shapes over centuries as northern winds continuously carved into their surfaces. These wind-sculpted formations create surprising silhouettes that reveal themselves from different angles as you move around the islands by boat.
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