Belvedere di Guardia Vecchia, Caprera
At 212 metres, the summit of Guardia Vecchia is the highest point in the entire archipelago, and the panorama from the old watchtower up there is the kind that makes you stand in silence for a few minutes before you even reach for your phone. On a clear day you can see Corsica, the Bocche di Bonifacio strait and islands stretching in every direction.
The hike up
The trail starts near the Stagno di Caprera lagoon and climbs through dense macchia — myrtle, strawberry tree, rockrose — that smells extraordinary in the morning heat. The path is well-marked and takes around 45 minutes at a relaxed pace.
You'll share the route with Sardinian warblers and the occasional mouflon, the wild mountain sheep reintroduced to the island. Walking quietly increases your chances considerably.
What you see from the top
The 19th-century Saracen tower at the summit gives you an elevated platform above the treeline. Spread below are all the major islands of the park — La Maddalena, Spargi, Santo Stefano, Budelli — each surrounded by its own halo of pale water.
To the north, the white cliffs of southern Corsica are close enough to feel reachable; on exceptionally clear winter mornings, hikers report seeing as far as the Tuscan archipelago.
Sunset from Guardia Vecchia in late June turns the granite islands below a deep amber-orange — bring a jacket because the wind picks up sharply once the sun drops.
Practical notes
There is no marked car park at the trailhead; park responsibly on the verge near the Caprera lagoon and follow the red-and-white CAI trail markers. The path is rocky in the upper section so trail shoes beat sandals.
Carry at least 1.5 litres of water per person — there are no fountains or bars anywhere on the route.
More of La Maddalena
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore La Maddalena →
