The triangular-looking Maddalena is the largest of the archipelago's seven islands. It has a plateau in the centre, which reaches a height of 156m with the summit of Guardia Vecchia. The corniche encircling the island (20.5km), which you drive around anti-clockwise, affords splendid views, reminding you that this is a conservation area protected by international park status. The village of La Maddalena – the island's capital and only urban area – lies in the middle of the south coast.