Alghero, Sardinia in Yacht Style with Windstar Cruises

One of my favorite things  about small ship cruising is that you visit less "touristy" ports where the big ships cannot go. After relaxing day at sea, our Windstar Yacht docked in the harbor of Alghero, a charming medieval town in the island of Sardinia, Italy. And Yes, we were the only ship in the harbor!
Alghero, Sardinia


A highlight of the island was a trip to the "Neptune's Grotto" which was a spectacular stalactite sea cave complex located at the Northwest part of Sardinia. You can access the Cappo Caccia (Vertical Cliffs) and the Grotto via boat or land (drive, local bus, or organized tour - it takes about 45 min). The road winds around Cappo Cacchia and ends up short of the climb. Be prepared, there are  656 steps down carved into the sheer cliff wall, which lead to the Grotto.

My husband and I decided to take a a local boat tour from a company called "Navisarda", located right in Alghero's harbor. In the summer months, there are trips scheduled every hour. It cost us 16 Euro per person for a round trip. Make sure to bring cash to pay for your tickets. There was a separate entry fee of 13 Euro (Cash Only - Total = 29 / person), once we were at the Grotto itself.

Navisarda Boat Company
After a 45 minute scenic boat ride, we arrived at Cappo Caccia and Neptune's Grotto. Raising high above sea level, the white vertical cliffs looked so magnificent! We saw some birds and other wildlife, which made the Cape their home.
Cappo Caccia as seen from our boat

If you plan this trip, try to have an early morning start! We felt that was already too crowded at noon, considering the fact that was off season.

After being in a few caves in the past myself, I have to say that Neptune's Grotto was the most beautiful cave I have seen! It  was truly a natural treasure! Created over millions of years, the stalactites were awe inspiring, boasting unique shapes and forms.

Entry to the Neptune's Grotto by boat and stairway to the top of the Cape
The Grotto from Inside
Back in Alghero in early afternoon, we were exited to start exploring the Old Town by foot (No need to rent a car, walk or bike is the best way to explore). It happened to be right at Siesta Time (most of the shops and restaurants were closed), but we still found a small al-fresco dining pizzeria in a historic piazza which we loved!

Local Pizzeria

We spent the rest of the day souvenir shopping (red coral jewelry is a popular gift), wandering around the narrow windy cobblestone streets, visiting small churches and walking along the medieval town walls we even saw a trebuchet (medieval siege engine)!

Trebuchet 
We left Alghero with a heart full of joy and appreciation that we had an opportunity to visit this picturesque town.

Alghero Old Town and Medieval Walls


Thank you for reading and please leave your thoughts and comments below!




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