Le isole Pontine: Ponza e Ventotene

Ponza: the charm of the cliffs

Ponza is the pearl of the archipelago, characterized by white tuff cliffs and crystal-clear waters. For those seeking relaxation, the beach of Chiaia di Luna is the island's most famous postcard, accessible by sea to admire the imposing crescent-shaped rock wall. Equally evocative is Cala Feola, with its natural pools carved into the rock, offering a sheltered and unique swimming experience. For snorkeling enthusiasts, Cala dell'Acqua is the ideal destination, where the seabed rich in marine life allows for the exploration of sunken shipwrecks.

Beyond the sea, the village of Ponza offers a vibrant atmosphere. Walking along the Bourbon port, you can admire the colorful houses reflecting on the water. A mandatory stop is the Botanical Garden, which houses the native flora of the Pontine Islands, offering a privileged view of the harbor and the open sea.

Ventotene: a dive into the past

Unlike Ponza, Ventotene retains a more intimate and historical character. The island is a true open-air museum, famous for the Roman Port, carved entirely into the tuff by the Romans over two thousand years ago and still perfectly functional. The atmosphere here is slow, ideal for those wishing to disconnect from city chaos.

The beaches of Ventotene are fewer but equally fascinating. Cala Nave is the main beach, characterized by dark volcanic sand and dominated by the remains of the imperial villa of Giulia. For those seeking solitude, Cala Rossano is an excellent alternative, easy to reach and perfect for a morning swim before venturing to the Archaeological Museum, where artifacts found in the surrounding seabed are kept.

How to get there and practical tips

Organizing a trip to the islands requires planning, especially in high season. Here is the essential transport information:

• Ferries and hydrofoils depart regularly from the ports of Formia, Anzio, and Terracina.
• The Formia-Ponza route is the most frequent and operates all year round.
• During the summer, connections from Anzio and Terracina are increased to accommodate the tourist flow.
• It is recommended to book tickets well in advance, especially if traveling on weekends in July and August.
• Once on the islands, the best way to get around is to rent a scooter or use local bus services, although in Ventotene much of the historic center is easily explorable on foot.

A tip for nature lovers: the islet of Santo Stefano, located a short distance from Ventotene, is known for its ancient Bourbon prison. Although access is limited, it is possible to admire its silhouette during boat excursions, which allow you to fully grasp the historical complexity of this small strip of Lazio land.

Don't miss

• Terracina
• Anzio