The town of Alghero is steeped in history and culture, with something to offer all its visitors. Alghero is a great base for a visit to one of the island’s most beautiful attractions: Neptune’s Grotto.
The caves were discovered by a fisherman in the eighteenth century. They are the largest and best-known caves in Sardinia, and are considered to be one of the Mediterranean’s most fascinating natural treasures. The caves are located 24 km from Alghero, on the north-western slope of the Capo Caccia cliffs.
Visitors to the caves can see the following:
– Lake Lamarmora: the lake is around 9m deep, measuring approximately 25m by 100m. It is one of Europe’s largest salt lakes.
– The Hall of the Palace: featuring speleothems ranging from 9m to 18m high.
– The Smith Room or Sala Dell’Organo: named after the English captain who was among the first to explore the caves in the 1800s. At the centre of this room is a tall column known as the Great Organ, whose streams resemble organ pipes. The Cupola is a formation of smooth stalagmites joined to the ceiling.
There are two ways to visit the caves: on foot or by boat.
The first option is for the more adventurous.
You need to reach Capo Caccia and then take the 654 steps of the Escala del Cabirol, located along the cliff edge. It’s the most tiring option but well worth it for the view from Capo Caccia down to the cave.
The second option is by sea, from the port of Alghero or from Porto Conte. This option is definitely the best one for those who want to enjoy a boat ride and visit the coast. Ferries run all year round, and are more frequent in spring and summer.
The total cost of ferry tickets and entry to the cave is 28 euros. The trip lasts around three hours and can be done at different times of day.
Alghero is lively town, and one of Sardinia’s most popular tourist destinations. It is the ideal holiday spot for families, couples or groups of friends. Beautiful beaches lie along its 75km of coastline. They are all accessible by bus, although renting a car will give you more freedom to travel around.
Maria Pia
Maria Pia is one of the largest beaches in the Alghero area. Famed for its white sand dunes and soft, sandy shores, it welcomes tourists and locals alike every year. Maria Pia beach is located just outside Alghero’s historic centre. Despite its popularity, its size means that it doesn’t become too crowded, making it the ideal place for a relaxing day at the beach.
Bombarde
Bombarde beach is the most famous in Alghero. It is an expanse of fine sand and turquoise sea with a rocky shoreline. It is crescent-shaped and surrounded by volcanic stones. This beach is equipped with a bar and beach club.
Porticciolo
Porticciolo beach is located in Cala Viola. This part of the coast is dotted with coves and secret beaches. This beach is less crowded and quieter than the Bombarde. With its beautiful scenery, it is an ideal spot to watch the sun setting over the sea. There are no bars on this beach so it is advisable to bring water and lunch if you plan to spend the day there.
The Pelosa
La Pelosa is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. The colour of the water changes from an almost transparent turquoise to blue, set against white sand. It is a spectacular beauty spot. Located in Stintino, about an hour from Alghero, it tends to be very busy but is definitely worth a visit. It has two cafés, a bar, toilets and everything you need to spend a pleasant day at the beach. Given its popularity, it is advisable to arrive early or make a reservation in one of its cafés a couple of days in advance, especially in high season.
Have you ever been to Alghero? Alghero is one of the most popular tourist destinations in both summer and winter. It is located in the province of Sassari, in the northern part of Sardinia, and is also known as the Sardinian Barceloneta or “little Barcelona”. It is renowned for the precious coral found in the Gulf of Alghero, which is both processed and sold in the town. A walk along the ramparts to enjoy a beautiful sunset overlooking Capo Caccia is a must-do. It is the perfect destination for families with children, groups of friends and young engaged couples. Alghero’s best-known beach is Le Bombarde, with its clear blue water and soft sand.
