
The ferry ritual from Palau
La Maddalena is an island: to reach it, you take the ferry from Palau. The crossing takes about 15 minutes and is the real border between mainland rhythm and archipelago rhythm.
Palau harbour is easy to reach:
- By car from Olbia (Costa Smeralda airport): 55 km, about 45 minutes. - By car from Alghero: 145 km, about 2 hours. - By bus: seasonal ARST and turmoTravel services connect main transport hubs to Palau harbour.

Which company should you choose?
Two companies operate the Palau-La Maddalena route all year with regular frequency:
- Delcomar (delcomar.it): the historical operator with frequent sailings. - Maddalena Lines (maddalenalines.it): modern vessels and extra peak-hour runs.
August golden rule: book online in advance on official websites. A booked ticket gives priority boarding and avoids long queues in the sun. For updated passenger and vehicle fares, always check company portals.
---
Choosing your apartment by logistics
Your accommodation position defines your trip style. Here is how to choose among our units:
**Madda: the village heart**
- Character: ideal for couples who enjoy evening village life. Step outside and you are immediately in the old-town lanes, restaurants, and shops. - Logistics: no car needed. For groceries, dinner, and ferry dock, everything is walkable. For beaches, use TurmoTravel buses or rent a scooter for the day.
**Lena: privacy and calm**
- Character: private garden, perfect for quiet stays, outdoor breakfasts, and extra space. - Logistics: vehicle recommended. The house is farther from the main corso but much closer to cliffs and beaches. Best if you arrive with your own car or plan to rent a scooter.
**Isola: panoramic views**
- Character: elevated position with sunset views over the archipelago straight from home. - Logistics: vehicle recommended. Like Lena, you stay away from centre noise and closer to the sea. Perfect base if you want to explore coves independently.
---
Ways to explore freely

1. By scooter
A scooter is the most effective way to experience the archipelago. It lets you move quickly from the old town to Caprera coves and still park close to the beach.
- For updated prices, check official rental websites.

2. By bicycle or e-bike: nature and sport
For travellers who prefer a slower rhythm among Mediterranean scrub scents.
- E-bike: ideal for Caprera elevation changes without strain. - Guest note: Isola and Lena include parking: you can bring your own bikes and board them on the ferry at reduced fares.

3. Public transport: convenient and scenic
The TurmoTravel bus network links the centre to iconic spots like Spalmatore beach. It is ideal for guests staying at Madda who want beach days without driving. Check the operator website for updated schedules. Public transport
---

Demetrio’s tip
If you want village evenings and small restaurants, choose Madda: you will live the island like a local, on foot. If your ideal day is waking up to sea views or dining in a garden after cliffs and coves, Isola and Lena are better; in that case, rent a scooter and the whole archipelago is minutes away. vacanzemaddalena.com
