4.6
(386)
7,578
riders
15
rides
Road cycling in Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena features a diverse landscape of islands, islets, and extensive coastline. The terrain offers a mix of well-paved roads, rolling hills, and some steeper climbs, particularly on La Maddalena and Caprera islands. The region is characterized by granite and schist formations, sculpted by natural elements, and offers panoramic coastal views throughout. This protected area provides varied cycling experiences across its main islands.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
4.6
(49)
670
riders
32.5km
01:36
400m
400m
Embark on a scenic road cycling adventure with the La Maddalena and Caprera Islands Loop, a moderate route that takes you through breathtaking coastal landscapes. You will pedal along crystal-clear…
4.6
(17)
196
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

4.6
(7)
158
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.6
(7)
73
riders
28.0km
01:15
290m
290m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
63
riders
30.1km
01:45
340m
340m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Gravel biking in Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena
Amazing how smoothly this runs. Both on the outward and return journey. And what a view you have during this crossing. You can't take it all in.
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Was here by car but would love to go cycling here sometime. Beautiful passage with beautiful views on all sides! Recommended this passage.
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The ferry departs every half hour and the crossing takes about half an hour.
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La Maddalena (The island was inhabited in prehistoric times) The island was inhabited in prehistoric times, but was abandoned from the fall of the Western Roman Empire until the 17th century, until a shepherd colony settled here and founded the present-day municipality. Its strategically favorable location with the inevitable passage through the Bocche di Bonifacio made the island a military outpost, for which the fortifications still visible today bear witness. This was also an attraction for Napoleon Bonaparte, who was repulsed in 1793 by the fleet commander Domenico Millelire, born here. For a long time, the island was a base for the Italian and also the US Navy, which was finally disbanded in early 2008. The USA's submarines were stationed off Santo Stefano, the fourth largest island in the archipelago. Today, La Maddalena is the seat of a non-commissioned officers' school and the naval department. The only small town in the archipelago has over 11,000 inhabitants. Its harbor overlooks Palau, located 15 minutes away by ferry. The cobbled alleys of the old town are lined with palaces from the late 18th century, and the parish church of Santa Maria Maddalena rises. In the sacristy of this church is housed the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art, where the treasure of the Holy Patroness is exhibited. This includes the crucifix and two silver candlesticks, which Admiral Nelson had gifted in 1804. It is a historical memorial of the town. In the small harbor of Cala Gavetta stands the statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, who spent his last 26 years on the island of Caprera, which is connected to La Maddalena by the 600 m long artificial strip of land Passo della Moneta. The second largest island of the archipelago was the "garden" of the hero of the two worlds, which today is famous for the Compendio garibaldino, the most visited museum in Sardinia. The untouched green landscape is surrounded by dreamlike bays, each more beautiful than the other: Coticcio, Sardinia's Tahiti, Cala dei Due Mari, and Spiaggia del Relitto should be highlighted. In Stagnali, a military base in the interwar period and today a center for environmental education, there is the Museo geomineralogico naturalistico, where rocks and rare minerals, such as giant quartz crystals, beach sand, and fossils can be seen. Text / Source: Sardegna Turismo.it https://www.sardegnaturismo.it/de/orte/north-east/la-maddalena
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La Maddalena (Granite and rhyolite formations over 45 km) After the only inhabited center of the largest island, both the archipelago itself and the nature park are named after it, a true paradise with countless landscape and historical-cultural treasures in the northeast of Sardinia: it is the dream destination of tourists from all over the world. A 45 km long panoramic road runs around the island and offers truly breathtaking views: granite and rhyolite formations border rugged sections, solitary sea inlets, quiet bays, sparkling white beaches and turquoise sea, as well as gentle hills that extend into the hinterland. La Maddalena is the big sister of about 60 larger and smaller islands that form the largest archipelago of Gallura and Sardinia. In 1994, this area was declared a national park and is an untouched natural wonder in the heart of the Mediterranean. The island is the ideal destination for holidays in complete harmony with the treasures of nature: just 3 km from the residential area, paths through the Mediterranean macchia lead to the fjord of Cala Francese, famous above all for the quarry of high-quality granite, which for centuries was a source of wealth. To the south, along the Padule promenade, near a military fortress, lies the Nido d’Aquila. Not far from there, Punta Tegge, another paradise of sand and polished rocks. To the north, bays with the finest white sand dunes amidst rocks shaped by time: Cala Lunga, Monti d’Arena and Bassa Trinita, a beach overlooked by a small church built in the 18th century, a place of deep devotion. To the east, the charming little bay of Spalmatore will enchant you: cream-colored sand, lined with Mediterranean macchia and impressive pink rocks.
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A pretty old town that stretches between the harbor basin and Piazza Umberto I. You can stroll along Via Guiseppe Garibaldi, admire the pretty side streets, houses and pretty shops and then return along the waterfront.
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From this panoramic point on the west coast of La Maddalena, you have a splendid view of another island in the same archipelago, Spargi: it has a surface area of just over four square kilometres and its coasts feature some rocks or reefs that resemble animals.
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There are 11 dedicated road cycling routes in Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena, offering a variety of experiences across the islands. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.
The terrain in Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena offers a diverse mix, primarily on La Maddalena and Caprera islands. You'll find well-paved roads, rolling hills, and some steeper climbs, all set amidst stunning coastal views and unique granite and schist rock formations. Routes range from easy coastal rides to more challenging paths with significant elevation gain.
The best season for road cycling in the archipelago is generally spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the islands are less crowded. Summer can be very hot, though coastal breezes can offer some relief.
Yes, the Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the View of Cala Spalmatore – Caprera Bridge loop is an easy 15-mile path providing coastal scenery and access to beautiful beaches like Cala Spalmatore.
Many routes offer access to significant landmarks and natural features. You can cycle through the historic La Maddalena town center, cross the Ponte della Maddalena (Caprera Causeway) connecting La Maddalena and Caprera, or visit idyllic beaches like Cala Serena. Caprera Island is also home to the Garibaldi Museum.
Yes, while there are no 'difficult' rated routes, several 'moderate' routes offer a good challenge with significant elevation gain and longer distances. The La Maddalena and Caprera Islands Loop, for example, is a 20.2-mile route with nearly 400 meters of elevation gain, providing a rewarding experience with panoramic views.
Absolutely. Many of the road cycling routes in Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Popular options include the La Maddalena and Caprera Islands Loop and the La Maddalena Coastal Route – View of Porto Massimo loop.
Yes, the archipelago is famous for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Many road cycling routes, especially on La Maddalena and Caprera, pass by or offer easy access to stunning beaches like Cala Spalmatore, Punta Tegge, and Bassa Trinità, providing perfect spots for a refreshing swim.
Bicycle rental shops are conveniently located, particularly near the ferry port in La Maddalena town. They offer a variety of bike types suitable for exploring the island's roads.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the breathtaking coastal views, the well-paved panoramic roads, and the unique experience of cycling between the islands. The diverse terrain, from easy coastal paths to challenging climbs, is also a highlight for many.
Many routes are designed to showcase the archipelago's beauty. The panoramic circular road on La Maddalena Island, which connects to Caprera, is particularly renowned for its spectacular coastal views. The View of Porto Massimo – La Maddalena Coastal Route loop also offers stunning vistas of the coastline and Porto Massimo.
The primary way to access the islands is via ferry to La Maddalena. Once on La Maddalena, local buses operate, but for direct access to specific cycling routes, it's often more convenient to start from La Maddalena town, where many routes begin or are easily accessible.


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