Ecologists are rejoicing at the news that Budelli Island, considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the world, may, in fact, remain in the hands of the Italian state. The little island, 1.6 sq kms, with a coastline of 9 kms, was put up for auction in October 2013. The highest bidder was a New Zealand banker, who purchased it for 2.94 m.. However, recent changes in legislation mean that the Italian state has the right of pre-emption and may, in fact, invalidate the sale. The island is part of La Maddalena National Park in Northern Sardinia, near the Straits of Bonifacio. It is uninhabited and strictly protected. It is renowned for its Pink Beach, where the sand takes on the hue of crushed coral and seashells. Access is only be boat and no building can take place on the island.
