The Escala del Cabirol is the scenic staircase that descends from the cliffs of Capo Caccia directly to the entrance of the Neptune's Grotto. With its 654 steps carved into the limestone rock, it represents a unique experience that combines physical effort, breathtaking landscapes, and the magic of reaching one of the most beautiful marine caves in Sardinia on foot.
What is the Escala del Cabirol?
The name "Escala del Cabirol" comes from Catalan and means "staircase of the roe deer", a tribute to the agile animals that once inhabited these cliffs. The staircase was built in the second half of the 20th century to provide land access to the grotto, an alternative to sea transport. It develops along a vertical wall overlooking the sea for about 110 meters in elevation, with irregularly sized steps carved directly into the rock.
How to get to the starting point?
The square where the descent begins is located at the end of the provincial road SP55, which connects Alghero to Capo Caccia. It is about 24 km from the center of Alghero and takes about 30 minutes by car. In the square, there is a large parking area (paid in summer), a bar, and the turnstiles for access to the staircase. You can also reach the starting point by public transport: local bus lines provide regular connections from Alghero to Capo Caccia, especially during the summer season.
Tourism numbers in Alghero (2025)
According to the open data from the Tourism Observatory of the Sardinia Region, in 2025, Alghero recorded 507,650 arrivals. The busiest months: August (89,141 arrivals), July (83,477 arrivals), September (82,602 arrivals).
- August: 89,141 arrivals, 399,770 stays
- July: 83,477 arrivals, 374,154 stays
- September: 82,602 arrivals, 299,180 stays
How challenging is the descent?
The descent takes about 20–30 minutes, while the ascent takes 40–50 minutes: the times are indicative and vary based on your pace and stops for photos. The steps are uneven and at times slippery, so it is essential to wear closed shoes with a non-slip sole. It is not recommended for people with knee or back problems, nor for very small children who are not self-sufficient. It is crucial to pay attention during both the descent and ascent, especially in humid conditions. In return, the views over the Gulf of Alghero and the rocky coast are among the most spectacular in northwestern Sardinia.
Hours and tickets
Access to the Escala del Cabirol is possible during the opening hours of the Neptune's Grotto; the hours may vary by season and from year to year. In summer, typical opening hours are during the daytime (approximately 09:00–19:00), but we recommend checking the updated hours and any potential closures on official channels before your visit (information updated for 2026). The entrance ticket includes both the staircase and a guided visit to the grotto (approximately 12–15 euros for adults, with reductions for children); rates may change, so check official information before you go. If you prefer to avoid the effort, you can also reach the grotto via an excursion by boat from Alghero. It is advisable to visit the grotto during the week to avoid the typical weekend crowds, especially during the peak tourist months.
Practical tips
- Suitable shoes: absolutely essential; avoid sandals or flip-flops.
- Water: bring at least half a liter; there are no refill points along the staircase.
- Best time: early morning to avoid summer heat and to get side lighting on the cliffs for photos.
- Boat return: some operators offer "walk down, boat back" packages that are very popular.
- Check weather conditions: check the forecast before you go, as rain can make the steps slippery.
Frequently asked questions
- How do you reach the Escala del Cabirol?
- You can reach the Escala del Cabirol by following the provincial road SP55 from Alghero, which is about 24 km away. There are also public transport options with regular connections, especially in summer.
- How long does it take to go down and up the 654 steps?
- The descent takes about 20-30 minutes, while the ascent can last 40-50 minutes. Times vary based on personal pace and stops to enjoy the views.
- What shoes are recommended for descending the Escala del Cabirol?
- It is essential to wear closed shoes with a non-slip sole, as the steps are irregular and at times slippery. Avoid sandals and flip-flops to ensure safety during the descent and ascent.
- Are the opening hours of the Escala del Cabirol fixed?
- The opening hours of the staircase follow those of the Neptune's Grotto and can vary during the season. Generally, in summer, the hours are from 09:00 to 19:00, but it is advisable to check updated information before your visit.
- Are there water refill points along the staircase?
- There are no refill points along the Escala del Cabirol, so it is advisable to bring at least half a liter of water with you. This is particularly important during hot summer days.
- Is it possible to visit the Neptune's Grotto without descending the staircase?
- Yes, you can visit the Neptune's Grotto starting from Alghero by taking a boat tour. This is an ideal way to avoid the effort of the descent and ascent.
- When is the best time to visit the Escala del Cabirol?
- The best time to visit is early morning, to avoid summer heat and to have optimal lighting for photos. Avoiding weekends can also help avoid crowds.