Leisurely Palau
Over the times, Palau has become a prosperous and overgrown resort thanks mostly to its strategic position near the Archipelago di La Maddalena. For a long time, NATO presence on the Maddalena islands fueled Palau’s economy which is now booming thanks to the addition of different holiday complexes on the island.
More flashy and exclusive resorts can be found hidden away from the sprawl pine-clad headlands of Capo d’Orso that are similiar to those on the Costa Smeralda. These resorts are gated communities of peaceful quiet villas and hidden covers, and are guarded by a huge number of security personnel.
Great and fabulous views await those who have the time to drive up here. The coast is both beautiful and famous because of the bizarre weather ridden rocks similar to those that can be found at the Roccia dell’Orso, just 6km east of Palau.
Palau is a beach resort similar to most beach resorts you would find anywhere else, and its only attraction is a wind-whipped fort, Fortezza di Monte Altura located 3km west of town. The fort was built to help defend the north coast and the Archipelago Maddalena from invasion, a duty it was never able to perform. Within the months of June to August, the fort is open from 9am till noon, and 5pm to 8 in the evening. Within the months of April to May to fort is open from 9am till noon, and 3pm to 6pm and within the months of September to October the fort is open from 9am till noon, and 3pm to 5pm.
Aside from the fort, the Palau offers a range of different activities such as boat excursions around the Maddalena islands. A fleet of tour operators are on standby at the port ready and waiting to offer their services. The trip takes several stops around the well known beaches on the island to give tourist the chance to swim on these beaches. Up on Capo d’Orso, in the exclusive Cala di Lepre development can be found the Centro Ippico which offers two riding treks around the scenic headlands which stops at certain points to allow trekkers and tourists to go swimming. These riding treks are fully equipped for experienced trekkers as well as children and beginners.
The best way to finish a hard day on the high seas is a good drink at pretty Porto Rafael. Port Rafael is another consortium of private villas, but the tiny piazzetta right on the bay is absolutely perfect.
