Grotta  del  Bue  Marino​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 21 October 2023
The caves of the Grotta del Bue Marino are situated on Sardinia's eastern coast, part of the Orosei Gulf in the Province of Nuoro and belonging to the Comune of Dorgali.

The best way to reach the Grotta del Bue Marino is by a private boat excursion from the seaside town of Cala Gonone. The boat tours also make stops at the nearby Cala Luna and Cala Goloritzé​​.
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The Grotta del Bue Marino, also known as the "Cave of the Monk Seal," is a stunning sea cave located in the Gulf of Orosei on the eastern coast of Sardinia, Italy. It is one of the most famous and largest caves in Sardinia, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore its mesmerizing underground chambers and breathtaking rock formations.
History
The Grotta del Bue Marino has a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. The cave was formed through natural processes, as the sea eroded the limestone cliffs over millennia, creating a series of interconnected chambers and tunnels. The cave's name, "Bue Marino" or "Monk Seal," originates from the Mediterranean monk seals that used to inhabit the cave until their extinction in the 1960s.
Key features
  • Boat Tours: Visiting the Grotta del Bue Marino requires taking a boat tour from the nearby town of Cala Gonone or Marina di Orosei. The cave's entrance is accessible only by sea, and boat tours typically depart from the ports and coastlines in the area.
  • Cave Exploration: Once inside the cave, visitors can explore its magnificent interior, adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites formations. The cave's chambers are vast, and the tour guides will lead visitors through the most accessible areas.
  • Archeological Finds: Throughout history, the Grotta del Bue Marino served as a shelter for prehistoric human populations. Archaeological excavations have revealed artifacts and remains dating back to the Neolithic period.
  • Guided Tours: To protect the delicate ecosystem and preserve the cave's natural beauty, access to certain sections of the cave may be restricted. Therefore, visitors are required to take guided tours, led by experienced guides who provide information about the cave's geological and historical significance.
  • Photography: The Grotta del Bue Marino offers fantastic opportunities for photography, with its awe-inspiring rock formations and play of light and shadows.
  • Weather Considerations: Boat tours to the cave are weather-dependent, and it is advisable to check the weather conditions before planning a visit.
  • Accessibility: The Grotta del Bue Marino can be reached by boat from the ports of Cala Gonone or Marina di Orosei, both of which are accessible by car from major towns in Sardinia.
Grotta del Bue Marino
Comune: ​Dorgali

Province: Nuoro
​
Region: Sardinia

​​​Access: private boat/excursion

​Close by: ​Cala Fuili, Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu

Recommended accommodation: ​Hotel ​Nettuno (Cala Gonone)

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