Scattered off the northern coast of Sardinia, La Maddalena Archipelago is a collection of granite islands, hidden coves and turquoise waters that rank among the Mediterranean’s most beautiful coastal landscapes. Protected as a national park, the archipelago is known for its clear sea, quiet beaches and rugged scenery, where pine trees, rocky cliffs and white sand meet in striking contrast. Reached mainly by boat, it feels far removed from the busier parts of the Sardinian coast.

You can spend the day swimming in secluded bays, sailing between islands such as Spargi and Budelli, or relaxing on beaches washed by impossibly clear water. Boat tours often stop at natural pools and snorkelling spots where marine life thrives beneath the surface. Budelli’s famous Spiaggia Rosa, or Pink Beach, gets its colour from tiny fragments of coral and shells mixed into the sand, although access is now protected to preserve the area.

A visit to the La Maddalena Archipelago offers a slower side of Sardinia, shaped by crystal clear water, untouched nature and some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Italy.