Sardinia harbours a fascinating world often hidden beneath the surface: spectacular caves, disused mines and underground routes that tell stories of nature, mystery and human labour.
In this guide we will take you on a discovery of underground Sardinia, an authentic experience that will enrich your trip.
Sardinia’s most spectacular caves
Cave of Neptune (Alghero)
Located within the Capo Caccia promontory, it is one of the most famous sea caves in Europe. It can be reached by sea or by descending the spectacular Escala del Cabirol, a staircase of over 600 steps carved into the rock. Inside, majestic halls and underground lakes leave you breathless.
Bue Marino Cave (Cala Gonone)
Once a refuge for the monk seal, today it is one of the most fascinating destinations on the east coast. It can be explored by boat or on foot along atmospheric illuminated paths, among impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Cave of Ispinigoli (Dorgali)
Famous for housing Europe’s tallest limestone column (38 metres), a natural monument connecting the ceiling and floor of the main hall. Also perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Abandoned mines and villages
Porto Flavia (Masua)
A masterpiece of engineering suspended between sea and rock. Minerals were loaded directly onto ships from here. The view of the Sugar Loaf is incomparable.
Montevecchio Mine (Arbus)
A UNESCO World Heritage site that recounts the lives of miners and their families. Today it can be visited with guided tours that bring to life an important piece of Sardinian industrial history.
Ingurtosu and the Sulcis mines
Ghost villages and ancient structures surrounded by nature: walking among these places means taking a step back in time, between industrial archaeology and wild landscapes.
Unique underground experiences
- Cave tourism for beginners: guided excursions that are safe and fascinating even for the inexperienced.
- Cave events and concerts: some natural cavities host musical performances with incredible acoustics.
- Tastings and food and wine: around the converted mines it is possible to participate in tastings of typical products, combining culture and flavour.
Practical advice for the visit
Clothing: bring comfortable shoes and a light jacket, the temperature in the caves is constant and cooler.
Best period: spring and autumn are ideal for combining sea and cultural visits.
With children: many caves and mines offer safe routes and activities for children.
Its caves, mines and underground villages offer an unprecedented and surprising face of Sardinia, made of history, nature and mystery. Adding an underground stop to your itinerary means experiencing Sardinia in an authentic and complete way.
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