Ponza: between natural pools and romantic walks
Considered the most beautiful and evocative island ofthe Pontine archipelago in Lazio, Ponza it amply deserves this fame thanks to its magnificent coasts.
The archipelago is also formed by Ventotene, Santo Stefano, Zannone, Gavi e Palmarola.
In the height of summer, the pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea, located in front of the Gulf of Gaeta and to the locality of San Felice Circeo it is full of tourists. Better to visit it starting from early September, so as to easily find a place in the holiday homes and apartments rented by the Ponza people. You will also avoid the long lines at the port to get on one of the fishing boats that go around the island.
Since some coves can only be reached by sea, you can rent a dinghy with or without a sailor.
A dip in nearby Palmarola
Among the stops of the classic boat route are the Caves of Pontius Pilate, where there is a fishpond from the Roman era and the blue caves.
Do not miss the natural pools, of volcanic origin, created by the erosion of the sea and the wind.
The most beautiful are located in Forna, one of the hamlets of Ponza together with Campo Inglese, Giancos, Guarini, The Counts e Santa Maria. All locations reached by a shuttle service that leaves from the port.
Another marine excursion not to be missed, for which even one day is enough, is the one at Palmarola island, an almost completely uninhabited nature reserve.
Through a taxi service by sea or, for the more resistant, along a path, we suggest you finally go to the beach of Frontone. Splendid waters and an interesting ethnographic museum which is located right above the beach.
Hydrofoils and ferries to Ponza depart all year round from Formia, Anzio and Terracina.
Trekking far and wide in Ponza
Not just the sea. TO Ponza there are many hills to discover by doing trekking. Among the itineraries, to be tackled with hat and bottle of water, there is the one that descends from the hamlet Forna to the port.
Or the path that leads to Mount Guardia, the highest point of the island: 283 meters above sea level and unique panorama.
For archeology lovers I suggest the path that leads to the Roman necropolis of Old bathroom, where there is also a beautiful beach.
Fish triumphs on the tables of Ponza restaurants
Fish-based recipes in which the flavors of the sea blend with those of the mountains, are the most loved by tourists.
Among the vegetables grown on the terrace on the hills of the island, the tomatoes, cooked with garlic, oil and parsley to season spaghetti with lobster and crab meat.
Among the latter, the swordfish, served in baked steaks with potatoes.
As an alternative to fish, one of the island's dishes is rabbit alla ponzese.
You can enjoy all these specialties not only in classic restaurants. But also in cellars and kiosks on the beach, at more affordable prices.
