Caves and Grottes

Sardinia’s caves and grottoes: mysterious and adventurous

Sardinia’s caves and grottoes unveil a stunningly beautiful underground world: intriguing stalactite formations, underground lakes and mossy walls transform these natural beauties into fairytale landscapes. Some of the over 300 caves are accessible to tourists.

Sardinia’s underground world is an extensive and almost impenetrable labyrinth. Dozens of fascinating caves, some of which have been made accessible for tourists, weave beneath the mountains and along the coast. Guided tours are available in some of the over 300 known grottoes and caves. Kitted out with headlamps, rope and a rubber dinghy, groups delve into the island’s depths.

Located at the tip of Capo Caccia, one of Sardinia’s prettiest caves is Grotta di Nettuno, which is home to a lake and pillar-like concretions. Organised boat tours leave from Alghero, or the more adventurous can explore by climbing down the 656-step Escala del Cabriol (‘Deer’s Staircase’). As the name suggests, however, those who choose the latter route should definitely be as nimble as a deer!

More unusual grottoes can be found on the eastern side of Capo Caccia: Grotta Verde (‘Green Cave’) takes its name from the layer of bright green moss covering its stalactites. It also reveals drawings from the Stone Age and a small Christian altar.

One of the most impressive cave systems is the ten-kilometre-long Grotta di Ispinigoli near Doralgi. Its stalactite formations hang up to 38 metres, fascinating every visitor with some of the longest in the world. Guided tours are also available of this grotto.

Another highlight is the Grotta del Bue Marino, which can be accessed by boat from Cala Ganone. Its name comes from the almost extinct Mediterranean monk seal (bue marino in Italian), which now only survives along the Sardinian coast. Around one kilometre of the cave can be accessed by tourists, who are in for a real treat with stunning stalactites that reflect in the pools of water.

Our tip:

Do you want to explore the island and its mysterious caves and grottoes for yourself? Hiring a car is the easiest way to reach all of the island’s cave systems and fascinating coastal areas. The Sardegna team would be happy to arrange one for you with fair conditions – contact us now!