Discovering Grottoes of Neptune: Unveiling Nature's Subterranean Masterpiece

Highlights of Neptune’s Grotto

La Marmora Lake: One of Europe’s largest saltwater basins, surrounded by impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The Holy Water Font, a two-meter-tall stalagmite, serves as a water source for local bird species.

Fascinating Rooms: The guided tour through Neptune’s Grotto takes visitors through several rooms with evocative names like the Hall of Ruins and the Royal Palace Hall. Each room showcases unique limestone formations created by centuries of dripping water, providing visitors with a mesmerizing experience.

Additional Nearby Caves: Beyond Neptune’s Grotto, the Capo Caccia area is home to other intriguing caves such as Grotta dei Pizzi e Ricami, Grotta di Nereo, and Grotta Verde. Grotta Verde is particularly notable for its Neolithic-era paintings, adding historical depth to your visit.

Getting to Neptune’s Grotto

By Car: From Alghero, take State Road SS127 Bis to Fertilia, then SP 55 to Capo Caccia. The journey is approximately 25 km and takes around 35 minutes. From Sassari, drive southwest along SS291 var, then SS291, and finally SP55 bis and SP55, which takes about 40 to 45 minutes. Parking is free but limited, so be prepared to walk a bit to the ticket counter.

By Bus: Bus ARST 9321 regularly connects Alghero to Capo Caccia, taking about 40 minutes. If you are coming from elsewhere in Sardinia, you will first need to reach Alghero. Plan to arrive at Capo Caccia at least 40 minutes before your scheduled visit to retrieve your tickets and descend the 654 steps of the Escala del Cabirol.

By Boat: Ferry boats from Alghero’s tourist harbor or Porto Conte offer an alternative to the stairs. The 45-minute ride costs around €15 (seasonal variations apply). Companies such as Linea Grotte Navisarda and Frecce delle Grotte di A. Piccinnu operate these trips. Please note that boat tickets do not include cave entry, but boat passengers have reserved spots for the cave tour.

Tips for Tourists

Booking and Planning:

• Reserve your spot in advance through the Alghero Experience app/website.
• Arrive early to ensure you have enough time to retrieve tickets and prepare for the tour.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and climbing stairs.

What Not to Miss:

• Don’t miss the panoramic views from the Escala del Cabirol.
• Capture the stunning formations in La Marmora Lake and other rooms.
• If possible, plan your visit to coincide with sunset for breathtaking views from Capo Caccia.

Neptune’s Grotto is located in the Capo Caccia promontory, approximately 25 km (15.5 miles) from Alghero and 45 km (28 miles) from Sassari.

Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 am to either 5:00 pm or 7:00 pm, depending on the season. Closed on Christmas.

Ticket Prices:

• Full price: €14
• Reduced price (ages 7-14, over 65, groups of 25+): €10
• Free: children under 7 and disabled visitors