Caves

The territory of Dorgali and Cala Gonone is distinguished by its karst phenomena, which have extraordinarily shaped the typical limestone rock of the Supramonte, both in its marine and mountainous versions. Over the millennia, water has relentlessly sculpted the landscape, creating a unique underground world. In both environments, kilometers of tunnels, caves, and natural cavities have developed, forming part of a vast system of subterranean galleries. These environments offer an experience full of fascination and mystery, where imposing stalactites and ever-changing calcite formations seem to guard millennia-old secrets. The territory of Dorgali and Cala Gonone is not only a masterpiece of nature but also a geological laboratory that attracts scholars, spelunkers, and underground exploration enthusiasts from all over the world.

Grotta del Bue Marino

The Bue Marino Cave, stretching over 70 km, is divided into three branches: the southern branch, open to the public; the northern branch, temporarily reserved for speleological visits; and the central or middle branch, designated for underwater caving. The southern branch, opened to the public in the 1980s, can be explored for about 800 meters.

The cave's name comes from the monk seal (Su Oe Marinu), which lived in the Gulf of Orosei until the 1970s and used the cave’s small beaches to raise its pups.

At the entrance, you can find petroglyphs—symbols of the Ozieri Cult.

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Grotta di Ispinigoli

The Ispinigòli Cave, located in the Supramonte of Dorgali, is famous for a stalagmite column that rises about 38 meters, connecting the ceiling to the floor. The name "Ispinigòli" comes from a nearby location, not from "spina in gola" (thorn in the throat) as is often mistakenly stated. The main hall has a depth of 35 meters, and the accessible path is characterized by collapse boulders. Another interesting feature is the Virgin's Abyss, a 60-meter sinkhole that connects the Ispinigòli Cave to the San Giovanni Su Anzu Cave. The name comes from a legend about Phoenician sacrifices, but the bones found are related to Nuragic burials.

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Grotta del Fico

Opened to the public in 2003, the Fico Cave is located in the sea of Baunei, in Ogliastra, and can also be accessed from Cala Gonone through boat excursions. Considered one of the most beautiful marine caves in Sardinia, it spans 1,800 meters, although some areas are still being explored. Inside, the Baunei priest Father Furreddu was the first to study the monk seal, observing its behavior.

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Grotta Toddeitto

The Toddeitto Cave is located along the path that leads from Cala Fuili to Cala Luna. It is recognizable by a large juniper trunk that crosses the path. After about 80 meters, on the right, you'll find the turnoff for the cave. The entrance is accessible via an iron staircase that descends 10 meters. The cave is not equipped and contains sinkholes, so access is recommended only for experienced individuals with flashlights. When illuminated, the limestone and quartzite walls shine beautifully.