Italys Hidden Islands Of Ponza And Isole Pontine

One of the best things about the Isole Pontine is that you’ve probably never heard of them. Unlike well-trodden hotspots such as Capri or the Aeolian Islands off the coast of Sicily, this archipelago is largely under the radar of international tourism, so it has a refreshingly local charm and laid-back attitude. With jewel-toned waters, dramatic landscapes and plenty of nautical activities to boot, the islands are a perfect place to indulge your summer daydreams.

The Isole Pontine

The Isole Pontine lie halfway between Rome and Naples and are easy to reach through ferries departing from Anzio, Formia and Terracina. The two largest islands, Ponza and Ventotene, feature delightful candy-colored houses and larger ports that let you visit coves around the smallest islands: Palmarola, Zannone and Gavi. Unless you’re lucky enough to have your own yacht or sailboat, you need to hire a small boat – with or without a skipper – to make the most of your time on the islands. The translucent coves, sea arches and craggy cliffs are best appreciated from the sea (and who doesn’t love being on boats?).

Ponza

The largest island in the archipelago, Ponza is a large volcanic outcrop that has been inhabited since Neolithic times. It has many archaeological ruins, primarily Etruscan and Roman, along with blue grottos, and relies heavily on tourism, boatbuilding and fishing as its main industries. There’s a lively atmosphere and plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy after spending a day out on the water. Chiaia di Luna, Ponza’s gorgeous crescent-shaped beach, has been closed to sunbathers due to crumbling rocks but can still be enjoyed from the water or the terrace of the Grand Hotel Chiaia di Luna.

Don’t miss: the Arco Naturale, the stunning rock formations of nearby island Palmarola and an aperitivo at Bar Tripoli.

Ventotene

Ventotene is a quarter of the size of Ponza and is better suited for a tranquil repose or a weekend spent snorkeling or diving in its emerald coves. The island, in fact, has become renowned in Italy for its scuba-diving excursions thanks to its untouched marine reserves. For a little bit of intrigue, nearby Santo Stefano was a penal colony for jailed criminals until 1965 and can be visited with a guided tour.

Don’t miss: the early morning illuminating the island’s sunbaked buildings, sampling Vincenzo’s local products (you’re sure to spot his cart adjacent to the port), and dining in the romantic garden of Il Giardino di Ventotene.

Ready to Embark?

Visit the Ponza tourism site for more information or download Ponza-expert Gillian Longworth McGuire’s Ponza Travel Essentials Guide e-book for tips on where to stay and eat as well as information about boat rentals and diving activities.

About the author

Livia Hengel

Livia Hengel is an Italian-American writer, photographer and traveler with a penchant for la dolce vita and a severe case of wanderlust. Originally born in Rome, she spent her life living around the world in Peru, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey and the US before moving back to her city of birth. She is passionate about all things cultural, existential, stirring and beautiful and is happiest when she is contemplating human nature over a glass of wine or wandering off-the-beaten-path in a new city. When she's not traveling around Italy, you can find Livia eating her way through the best restaurants in Rome or keeping up with Instagram. Livia is the author of The HUNT Guide for Rome and also contributes to Spotted by Locals.