Neptune's Grotto — Cathedral of Stone

The Grotta di Nettuno (Neptune's Grotto) at Capo Caccia is one of the most spectacular stalactite caves in the entire Mediterranean and Sardinia's most visited natural attraction. The vast cave extends over four kilometers into the interior of the cliff (about 200 meters are accessible) and houses an underground salt lake (Lago La Marmora), massive stalactites and stalagmites, and limestone formations that resemble the columns of a Gothic cathedral.

The cave is accessible by two routes — and both are an experience in themselves. By boat from Alghero (about 25 min., 16€ round trip + 13€ entrance) you travel along the rugged coast of Capo Caccia, past cliffs, sea caves, and wilderness, to the cave entrance at sea level. On foot via the famous Escala del Cabirol (Staircase of the Roe Deer): 654 steps carved into the rock lead down the cliff of Capo Caccia 110 meters to the cave entrance. The descent is spectacular — the ascent strenuous, but with unforgettable views over the coast.

Inside the cave, the organ pipe stalactites, the huge column "Acquasantiera" (Holy Water Font), halls with names like "Salone delle Rovine" and "Tribuna della Musica", and the silent, dark green lake, whose surface reflects the stalactites, are impressive. The temperature in the cave is a constant 16°C — bring a jacket! The tour lasts about 35 minutes and is available in Italian and English.

The Capo Caccia itself is a nature reserve of wild beauty: 168-meter-high cliffs, griffon vultures (one of the few breeding sites in Italy), macchia, and a lighthouse at the end of the road. The drive from Alghero to the Capo (25 km) is already a panoramic route through pine forest and olive groves.