5-Day North Sardinia Adventure: Discover La Maddalena Archipelago and the Gulf of Orosei

Day 1: Arrival and Maddalena

Olbia & La Maddalena, Italy on April 21, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Balocco, Olbia

Start your day with an authentic Italian espresso and pastries at this popular local spot near Olbia’s center.
EUR5, 0h30m

10:00am

Travel from Olbia to La Maddalena

Take a scenic 1.5-hour ferry ride from Palau to La Maddalena. Ferries operate frequently throughout the day.
EUR10, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Il Gatto e La Volpe

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes in La Maddalena’s charming harbor with views of the Mediterranean.
EUR25, 1h

1:30pm

Explore La Maddalena Town

Stroll through the historic center with quaint shops and visit the Garibaldi Museum, open 10am–6pm, to learn about the island's history.
EUR5, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Spiaggia di Cala Spalmatore

Unwind on one of the island’s best beaches known for its crystal-clear waters—perfect for a late afternoon swim.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria Il Corsaro

Enjoy traditional Sardinian cuisine featuring local meats and pasta in a cozy setting in La Maddalena.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 2: La Maddalena Islands

La Maddalena Archipelago, Italy on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at pasticceria local

Grab fresh pastries and coffee from a local bakery before setting off to explore the islands.
EUR5, 0h30m

9:00am

Boat Tour of La Maddalena Archipelago

Take a full-day boat excursion visiting nearby islands like Caprera, Spargi, and Budelli, famous for stunning beaches and clear waters. Tours usually last 6-7 hours and include stops for swimming and snorkeling.
EUR50, 6h30m

3:30pm

Return and Leisure Walk

After the boat tour, stroll around La Maddalena town to enjoy local gelato and coastal views.
EUR5, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Lungomare Ristorante

Dine with a seaside view featuring freshly caught seafood and regional wines.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 3: Gulf of Orosei Beaches

Gulf of Orosei, Sardinia, Italy on April 23, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast before heading to Gulf of Orosei.
Included, 0h30m

8:30am

Travel from La Maddalena to Gulf of Orosei

Drive or take a combination of ferry and car rental from Palau area to the Gulf of Orosei, approximately 2.5-3 hours travel time.
EUR40, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Tipico Su Minnalzu

Savor authentic Sardinian dishes with local cheeses and cured meats, close to Cala Gonone.
EUR25, 1h

1:30pm

Relax at Cala Luna Beach

Spend the afternoon at this stunning beach, famous for its white sand and turquoise waters, accessible by boat or hike.
EUR10 (boat trip), 3h

5:00pm

Walk around Cala Gonone Town

Explore the small town for artisanal shops and cafes.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Andrea’s Ristorante

Enjoy dinner featuring fresh seafood and Sardinian specialties just steps from the beach.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 4: Grottoes & Hiking

Gulf of Orosei, Sardinia, Italy on April 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast preparing for a day of adventure.
Included, 0h30m

8:30am

Visit Grotta del Bue Marino

Explore this famous sea cave via guided boat tour from Cala Gonone; tours last about 1.5 hours and operate from 9am to 5pm.
EUR20, 1h30m

11:00am

Hiking Selvaggio Blu Trail (partial)

Hike a scenic segment of the Selvaggio Blu trail, regarded among Italy’s top coastal hikes, with dramatic cliffs and ocean views. Recommended partial routes last 2-3 hours and are accessible from Cala Gonone area.
Free, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at La Poltrona

Have a well-deserved lunch with fresh pasta and local specialties.
EUR20, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Cala Fuili

Enjoy the peaceful beach framed by cliffs after a day of hiking and exploring.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante La Bitta

Conclude your hiking day with a delicious meal offering a blend of traditional and modern Sardinian cuisine.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 5: Relax and Departure

Olbia, Sardinia, Italy on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel in Cala Gonone

Enjoy your final breakfast in Sardinia with serene views and fresh local produce.
Included, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive back to Olbia

Travel back to Olbia for your departure; the drive takes approximately 1.5-2 hours.
EUR40, 2h

11:30am

Visit Olbia’s Basilica di San Simplicio

Explore this beautiful Romanesque church, one of the oldest in Sardinia, open from 9am to 12pm.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Da Tonino

Enjoy your last meal with delicious Sardinian specialties including fresh fish and rich pasta dishes.
EUR30, 1h

2:30pm

Departure from Olbia Airport

Head to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport for your flight home with wonderful memories of Sardinia.
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