Pontine Islands: turquoise waters and breathtaking landscapes in the Tyrrhenian Sea
Small, unspoilt and steeped in history
The Pontine Islands, also known as the Ponziane Islands, are among the most enchanting destinations in the Mediterranean
This volcanic archipelagp rises gently from the Tyrrhenian Sea, south of S. Felice Circeo, almost embraced by the Gulf of Gaeta
Nautical bases for the Pontine Islands
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Vedi tutti
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Ostia
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Marina di Nettuno
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Port of Formia
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Procida
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Castellammare di Stabia
PALMAROLA
Perhaps the most spectacular and unspoilt of the Pontine Islands, Palmarola offers secluded anchorages over sandy seabeds, surrounded by crystal-clear waters rich in marine life.
Its bays are framed by towering cliffs that plunge dramatically into the sea.
At the northern tip of the island lies Cala Tramontana, where centuries of erosion have sculpted the rocks into monumental formations known as "Le Cattedrali."
The island is uninhabited, except for a seasonal restaurant on the west side, accessible by tender. Nearby, Cala del Porto and Cala S. Silverio offer spectacular bays with shallower waters and trasparent waters.
Continuing south between Cala Brigantina and Punta di Mezzogiorno, the coastline reveals an extraordinary natural formation carved by the sea. A vast rock passage, accessible by tender, leads into the dramatic gorge of Faraglione di Mezzogiorno.
Before setting course for Ponza, enjoy one last swim near Scoglio Forcina, on the island's eastern side, where smooth white pebbles contrast with rugged rocks rising above the sea.
PONZA
The picturesque town of Ponza unfolds like an amphitheatre around its harbour, lined with colourful fishermen's houses.
Cala Chiaia di Luna is Ponza's most famous bay. The fjord, accessible only from the sea and encircled on each side by imposing pearl-white limestone cliffs, offers a privileged overlook from which to enjoy one of the most romantic sunsets in the Mediterranean while sipping a cool aperitif on board with the entire crew.
Heading north, the coastline reveals a succession of caves, natural arches and hidden inlets, ideal for snorkelling. The Faraglioni di Maria Rosa, volcanic rock formations rising from the water, are particularly rich in marine life.
At Cala Feola you will find a typical little restaurant practically on the water, which can be reached by tender through a small harbor of buoys and small boats.
On the eastern front of the island each cove is a treat for the eyes, a pristine and wild natural landscape rises from the water to the sky.
A visit to Scoglio Evangelista, an imposing rock formation pierced by a natural opening, is well worth including in the itinerary. Alternatively, drop anchor off Frontone Beach and enjoy the first light of dawn over the sea towards Ventotene.
For those who enjoy walking, the easy Piana dell'Incenso trail is suitable for families and leads to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the islands of Gavi and Zannone.
ZANNONE
Zannone lies entirely within Circeo National Park, a protected natural area where access is regulated.
Despite the island's restricted access, the abandoned villa once belonging to a marquis continues to attract curiosity. Its faded grandeur recalls a mysterious chapter of Italian history that made headlines in the 1970s.
VENTOTENE
The island of the Sirens who attempted to bewitch the Greek hero Odysseus.
After a pleasant sail of approximately 20 nautical miles, take a refreshing swim in one of the bays along the eastern coast, between Punta dell'Arco and Cala Parata Grande. Then head towards Porto Vecchio, the ancient Roman harbour carved into the coastline, where archaeological remains offer a glimpse into the island's maritime past.
A few steps from the harbour, it is possible to dine on the quay in one of the many small restaurants, or climb the well-known winding staircase that connects the small harbor with the piazzetta, the hub of the town, or the Belvedere over the lighthouse, from which there is a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Gaeta and the Flegree Islands.
The streets are narrow and dotted with quaint little stores and places to take a tasty drink.
On summer evenings, the island reveals a livelier side, with music and dancing under the stars, surrounded by the smooth rocks shaped by the sea.
