Palau is a small community located on the north point of Sardinia. It is the gateway to the famous & the inevitable Marine Park of La Maddalena and Lavezzi. Beautiful coast line and beaches surround the area. Palau is the opening door to the Costa Smeralda. The Bonifacio Strait is surly one of the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean sea, the islands and islets shaped by the wind are scattered with crystal waters surrounding La Maddalena Archipelago and Lavezzi. The whole area represents a rich natural heritage with so many species living above and below the waters.

The little town of Palau will provide you with all the typical Sardinian delicacy, with little shops, relaxed bars and a wide choice of restaurants. The narrow streets are beautifully decorated with plant pots and flowers. One minute out of Palau you will find memorable sceneries of the Sardinian landscape with olive trees, wild flowers scatted in between those gigantic rocks which offer great walking opportunities. There are plenty of beautiful white sand beaches just outside of Palau, you may also want to rent a rib/zodiac for the day with Albatross Cell : (0039) 3382379768 / 3687796422.

Things to do

Beside Scuba Diving, the area offers many places of interest to visit. The historic monuments of Nuraghic (Nuraghi period XVIIIth/Vith b.c.) : The history that lived on the coast in ancient times has left it's mark, especially by the monuments you can find around Palau. At Mount Canu , you can visit two "Tombs of the Giants". The area of Arzachena a 15 minutes drive from Palau also holds lots of historic places to visit.

The most famous natural monument the "Capo D'Orso" is really worth a trip. This gigantic rock has a shape of a huge bear overlooking the sea hollowed out by the wind on top of the granite peak. This rock was in the ancient time a reference point for the Greek and Roman sailors and symbolizes Palau. This site gives you also a fantastic view on the Archipelago and good location for photos.

Among the interesting characteristics of the islands, there are the defensive fortifications built by the Savoia Government at the end of the XVIII Century.

What about food !?! 

After a great day diving, nothing better than a tasty meal with a nice glass (es!) of Sardinian wine ! There are lots of restaurants to choose from in Palau, here below are our favorites.

For good pizza and a typical plate of pasta, the budget restaurant "The OLD CALTINU" and "IL PORTICIOLLO" is well appreciated.

Sea food and fish delights is definetly at the "LA TAVERNA", romantic athmosphere and always the good humor du patron. Good selection of local wine (our favorite one "Rocca Rubia"). Located next to the diving center. For more information on the places to visit or what to do in the area you can contact the Tourism Office of Palau, phone number 0039 0789 707025