1. Practical tips for visiting Caprera
Where Caprera is located
Caprera is an island located in the Archipelago La Maddalena, northeast of Sardinia. It is connected by a road bridge to the main island of La Maddalena (just 500 meters away) and is located:
- 5 km from the Sardinian coast (Palau)
- 15 km from Corsica (Bocche di Bonifacio)
- 40 km from Olbia (the nearest airport)
Why is the location special?
It is part of the National Park of the Archipelago of La Maddalena, a protected marine area.
It lies along the migratory routes of cetaceans and birds.
It offers panoramic views of Corsica and the minor islands of the archipelago.
Fun fact: From its highest point (Monte Tejalone, 212 m), on clear days you can see the Corsican Alps!
How to get to Caprera
Ferry from Palau to La Maddalena
Main connection to La Maddalena (15-20 minute crossing). From there, Caprera is reachable via the Passo della Moneta bridge, by car, bike, or on foot.
book a ferry
Boat rental
Ideal option for exploring the most remote coves, a boating license is required for engines over 40 HP.
Where to stay in Caprera
There are no accommodations in Caprera; you can book hotels, vacation homes, or rooms in La Maddalena, where you will surely find the ideal solution for your vacation.
where to stay in La Maddalena
Camping ban: Forbidden throughout the island to protect the ecosystem, with fines for violators.
How to get around Caprera
Bikes/scooters: Optimal solution to navigate the trails (rental available only in La Maddalena).
Car: Limited parking at the main beaches; better to arrive early.
Important Rules
Military zone: Access prohibited in NATO areas near Punta Rossa.
Drones: Use allowed only with authorization from the National Park.
Beaches: No services available; you need to take all waste away with you.
2. Things to do in Caprera
Boat tour among the islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago
One of the must-do experiences is to explore by boat the wonders of the Maddalena Archipelago. Excursions depart from Palau, La Maddalena, Cannigione, Baja Sardinia, and Olbia.
see the best boat tours
Historical Trekking between Garibaldi and the Bunkers
Walk the Garibaldi Path, which connects the Garibaldi Compendium to Forte Arbuticci, a former military outpost with a 360° view of the archipelago. Along the way, you'll pass the remains of the Napoleonic forts and abandoned NATO bunkers, some still covered with mysterious graffiti.
Snorkeling at Spargi
The waters of Spargi are perfect for snorkeling. True, we are not in Caprera, but Spargi is still one of the wonderful islands of the Archipelago.
The itinerary includes departing from Porto Pollo and discovering the most picturesque beaches of the archipelago, including the renowned Manto Della Madonna, located between the islands of Razzoli, Budelli, and Santa Maria, where there will be a stop for snorkeling.
You will also visit the Pink Beach of Budelli, Cala Granara, or Punta Zanotto, with a second stop dedicated to snorkeling (the precise location will depend on weather and wind conditions).
An additional stop is planned at Cala Corsara, on the island of Spargi, offering another opportunity for snorkeling. Please note that if you wish to make specific stops along the way, you can request it from the guide, keeping in mind that some islands are accessible on foot.
see the excursion
Bike tour among trails and secret stories
Rent a bike in La Maddalena and ride along the scenic road that runs along Cala Portese and Punta Rossa.
Birdwatching in the Kingdom of the Corsican Gull
In the area of Cala Napoletana, with a bit of patience and silence, you can observe the extremely rare Corsican gull and other migratory birds. Bring binoculars: peregrine falcons nest on the cliffs overlooking the sea.
Sunset from Forte Tegge
One of the most spectacular spots to admire the sun setting behind Corsica.
The Forte di Punta Tegge is an ancient military fortification located on the island of La Maddalena, Sardinia. It stands on a rocky promontory that offers a spectacular panoramic view of the archipelago, particularly of the strait of Palau and the island of Caprera.
Built at the end of the 19th century, the fort was part of a coastal defense system designed to protect the archipelago, which was important from a strategic and military point of view. Its elevated position allowed for monitoring naval movements in the area.
Today, the Forte di Punta Tegge is no longer used for military purposes and has become a tourist attraction. Visitors can explore its structures, admire the military architecture of the time, and, most importantly, enjoy breathtaking views of the crystal-clear sea, the rugged cliffs, and, at sunset, unforgettable colors.
3. Why is Caprera famous?
The Hero of Two Worlds
Caprera is inextricably linked to the figure of Giuseppe Garibaldi, who lived here for the last 26 years of his life. He bought half of the island in 1856, transforming it into a farm and private refuge. Today, the Garibaldi Compendium (house-museum) preserves his personal belongings, from the armchair where he died to gifts received from around the world.
The NATO's The Naval Non-Commissioned Officer School trains its men here. If you see groups in black wetsuits running on the beach at dawn, they are not strange tourists… At Cala Brigantina, there is a miniature version of the pink beach of Budelli: less famous, but with the same phenomenon (Miniolus shells) and no access restrictions! Dark Bonus: At Cala dei Morti (official name: Cala Caprarese), 7 skeletons with gold coins in their mouths were found in the 1930s. Were they pirates? Smugglers? No one ever discovered: the forensic doctor who examined them died of a heart attack two days later. Today, the beach is filled with black tooth-shaped shells – the tide washes them away only in November. Caprera is not an island to visit in just a few hours: it is an experience to savor slowly, among history, nature, and legends. To truly enjoy it, stay in the area for at least one night! Choose a characteristic B&B in La Maddalena or a vacation home with a view of the archipelago, and upon waking, you’ll already have the sea in front of your eyes. And to complete the adventure, don't miss a boat trip to the Maddalena Archipelago! Sail among the pink beaches of Budelli, the natural pools of Spargi, and the granite rocks of Santa Maria. Excursions depart from the port of La Maddalena and often include snorkeling and lunch on board with local products. 👉 Book your stay and your boat trip – the Archipelago is waiting for you!10. The “little sister” of the pink beach
It is said that Garibaldi hid in his house secret letters for Mazzini, which were never found. Some swear they are bricked up in the cellar… but the caretakers smile and say nothing.Conclusion: experience Caprera until the last sunset!