When visiting Baunei, a charming coastal village in central-eastern Sardaigne, seize the opportunity for an excursion to Grotte del Fico.

If the science of underground caverns intrigues you, exploring the Sardinian coast will be a privilege. Nestled within the rugged mountains of Supramonte, between Cala Biriola and Cala Goloritzé, Grotte del Fico offers adventurers an unforgettable experience. Once the lair of monk seals—a marine mammal related to the sea lion, thought extinct in Sardaigne until 1950—this cave stirs the imagination with tales of passionate explorers as you venture into galleries plunging 40 meters deep. Between boat excursions, encounters with mineralogical heritage, and sweeping views of the Mediterranean, visitors experience moments of genuine wonder.

History

Credit for the discovery belongs to Siu Antioglu Morette, a local shepherd. Its position on the waterfront, perched 10 meters above sea level behind jagged rock formations, had kept Grotte del Fico hidden for millennia. One day, while tending his flock, Morette managed to climb beyond the cliff and explore the area. His astonishment was profound when he spotted a dark opening yawning before him—one he did not hesitate to enter.

When word spread, speleology experts inspected the site in 1957. One can only imagine the emotions that seized the researchers during those first thrilling moments of exploration. The walk through darkness, before electric lighting was installed, the eagerness to descend to the basin's depths, the fear of finding nothing—then the cries of joy at a discovery they had never anticipated: monk seals swimming in the pools. For context, these seals had not been spotted on Sardaigne's coasts for twenty years, and the scientific community had deemed them extinct. This double discovery filled them with justified pride.

Sardinian man of letters Marcello Serra, one of the expedition's members, captured his impressions in these words: "The grotto we traversed has yet no name. We should like to baptize it 'Grotta del Castelo' (Castle Grotto), in homage to its imposing appearance, anchored within a vast cliff dominating the sea."

Today

Opened to the public in 2005, Grotte del Fico ranks among Sardaigne's finest caves. The Speleological Society of Baunei took matters in hand after forty years of abandonment, when the site remained closed to protect the "monk seal" species, whose proliferation and survival remain priorities. A group of speleologists undertook the cave's development, installing electricity throughout the tunnels and carefully constructing catwalks to facilitate boat passage.

Visiting Grotte del Fico

Following in the explorers' footsteps, venture into this vast cavern. Access on foot is impossible—only professional climbers could manage the cliff descent. Most visitors charter a private boat, with or without skipper; more discerning travelers arrange luxury yacht or catamaran service, complete with fine dining aboard.

Once the boat reaches anchorage, site staff will welcome you at the entrance and guide you through the cave. Self-guided visits are not permitted.

Highlights of the experience:

• An intuitive layout of stairs and catwalks makes navigation straightforward;
• The English-speaking guide delivers factual, engaging information;
• The cave walls exude mystery and enigma, testament to their ancient origins;
• The boat journey delights younger visitors.

Allow approximately one hour to explore Grotte del Fico. The expedition offers welcome respite from summer heat while fulfilling your adventurous dreams.

Practical Information

● When to visit Grotte del Fico?

The cave is open only in May, June, July, August, and September. Visiting hours run from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Prior reservation is required for autumn or winter visits. Guides reserve the right to cancel excursions if weather is unfavorable.

Entrance fees apply: €10 for adults, €6 for children under 12.

Boat access is the only option. Several ferries departing from Arbatax or Santa Maria Navarrese can take you there.

● Nearby attractions

This speleological adventure leaves you wanting more? No problem—other secret caves merit exploration along Sardaigne's eastern coast, near the Gulf of Orosei:

● The natural cave of Bue Marino;

● Grotto of Ispinigoli;

● The caves of Cala Luna.