Discover one of Sardinia’s most fascinating secrets: a subterranean world of stalactites, stalagmites and hidden lakes to take your breath away, just a stone’s throw from Alghero.
People who choose Alghero for their summer holidays already know they are making a wise choice. This pearl of north-western Sardinia boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean: stretches of golden sand, secret coves that can only be reached by boat or after short hikes and waters with a thousand shades of blue. But Alghero is not all about the sea. There are protected natural parks, picturesque villages where time seems to stand still and a historic city that mixes Catalan charm and Sardinian spirit. And its neighbouring area conceals one of the island’s most spectacular places: Neptune’s Grotto.
An enchanted underground kingdom
Neptune’s Grotto is a true masterpiece of nature. Located in the Area Marina Protetta di Capo Caccia and the Parco Regionale di Porto Conte, it leads you on a journey into an underground world of majestic caverns, hidden lakes and settings that seem straight out of a fantasy film. The cave stretches for around 4 kilometres, although only a part can be visited, and it contains one of Europe’s largest salt lakes: Lake La Marmora, an immense mirror-like expanse of water that reflects the strange forms of the stalactites and stalagmites.
As you walk along the guided route (about 1 km, well lit and fitted out) you are surrounded by natural columns up to 12 metres high, white petrified “waterfalls” and evocative plays of light that generate a spellbinding atmosphere. Among the most famous chambers are the Sala delle Rovine (Hall of Ruins), Tribuna della Musica (Tribune of Music) and Sala Smith (Smith Cavern). This latter chamber houses the column recognised as a symbol of the cave: an imposing limestone structure 12 metres high and 6 metres wide, stretching from floor to ceiling like a gigantic sculpture.
How to visit Neptune’s Grotto
There are two ways to reach this spectacular natural site:
- By boat: the most scenic, comfortable way. Motorboats depart from Alghero marina regularly, particularly in summer, taking you to the sea entrance to the cave. You can wonder at the rugged coastline of Capo Caccia on the crossing and, with a bit of luck, spot gulls, cormorants and dolphins. The crossing takes around 30-40 minutes.
- On foot: if you love challenges and hiking, you can choose to reach the cave by going down (and then up!) the famous Escala del Cabirol, a stairway of some 654 steps that winds along the sloping wall of Capo Caccia. The view during the descent (and ascent) will repay your efforts: the open sea, imposing cliffs and the feeling of being suspended between sky and sea.
Admission to the cave is only allowed on a guided tour, lasting about 45 minutes. Tickets can be purchased on-line or on site (but it is better to book in advance in high season). The cost is around €14 for adults, with reductions for children, teenagers and groups.
Practical tips
- Comfortable shoes: whether you choose the boat or the stairway, the ground inside the cave can be damp and slippery.
- Light sweatshirt or jacket: even in the middle of summer, the temperature inside the cave remains around 18°C.
- Camera or smartphone: there is no shortage of opportunities to take breathtaking photos!
What to see nearby
Neptune’s Grotto is just one of the wonders you can discover in the area. I recommend taking some time to explore:
- Capo Caccia: climb up to the lighthouse to delight in one of Sardinia’s most beautiful sunsets.
- Parco di Porto Conte: a paradise for lovers of hiking and nature. Numerous trails lead you to discover the local flora and fauna, including Mediterranean scrub, woods and viewpoints.
- The coves of Cala Dragunara and Cala dell’Inferno: ideal for a refreshing dip.
- The village of Fertilia: a small settlement with a curious mix of rationalist architecture and a seafaring atmosphere.
- Boat trips: many companies offer mini cruises to explore the coves and cliffs of the Gulf of Alghero.
Visiting Neptune’s Grotto is an experience that adds a touch of adventure and wonder to your holiday in Alghero. Whether you arrive by sea or by descending the spectacular stairway, prepare to enter a hidden world that will leave you speechless. And when you emerge back into the sunlight, you will be ready to discover what else this extraordinary land has to offer.
