| La Maddalena Island - Sardinia - WTM Londra 2011 Nestled in the Tyrrhenian Sea, La Maddalena Archipelago comprises a group of islands scattered from Northern Sardinia toSouthern Corsica, in the middle of the Bonifacio strait. Wild, sunny and breezy, they cover an area ideal for sailing and nature observation with their countless nature trails, hidden coves and breathtaking views. The area is home to dolphins, cetaceans and a dazzling sea life constantly monitored by the scientists of the Archipelago's National Park. La Maddalena, the biggest of the islands and the only one inhabited, has provided shelter to sailors crossing the stormyBonifacioStraitsince time immemorial. For about two centuries a relevant military centre, the archipelago is dotted by the signs of its more recent history: still the old fortresses stand out above solitary and wild coves; landing place for odd adventurers and romantic figures, take the Admirals who whished to establish here the first unit of the Marina Sarda, it boasts a memorable victory over Napoleon who was overrun and put to flight by a thin group of local fighters and thus, forced to give up his ambition to seize the island. Take also the English travellers, Admiral Horace Nelson above all, who, while chasing the French fleet led by Villeneuve, temporarily shielded in the port of Toulon, waited onboard the ship Victory in the harbour of Mezzo Schifo --also know as Agincourt Bay -- , between Palau andLa Maddalena, with a fleet of 20 ... |
