With cliff top views and a labyrinth of subterranean caves, this natural attraction on Sardinia’s western coast has so much to see both above and below ground.
Capo Caccia is a rocky promontory that dominates the Bay of Alghero. This spectacular section of the coastline rises up to a height of 610 feet (186 metres) above the sea and features a network of underground caves. Enjoy superlative cliff top views then investigate subterranean caverns and passageways.
According to popular history, Capo Caccia was so named because the local aristocracy used to guide their boats to the foot of the cliffs to hunt for pigeons. The Italian word for hunting is caccia. You too can reach the rocky attraction by boat, because many sea tours stop here. Alternatively, drive to the free car park located at the top of the cliffs.
If you arrive by car, make your way down to the caves after admiring the views. The descent is via a stairway that has been cut into the rocks with more than 600 steps. The most popular marine caves are in the Grotta di Nettuno, named after Neptune, the Roman god of the sea.
The cave’s opening is only a few feet above the surface of the sea, so you can only enter when the water is calm. Walk into caves filled with stalactites and other curious looking rock formations.
Pass by the transparent waters of the saltwater lake and the large stalagmite known as the Baptismal Font. Inside the grotto’s Smith Room is another huge stalagmite formation, called the Great Organ. Stand on the balcony of the Music Gallery for a good view of the lake. The grotto is open every day except Sundays and there is a fee for admission with reduced prices for children. If you are an experienced scuba diver, book an expedition to explore Capo Caccia’s many underwater caves.
Reach Capo Caccia by driving or taking a taxi along the coastal road from Alghero. Alternatively, take the regular boat service from the city. The ticket price doesn't include entry to the grotto.
