The play of the currents gives the waters of Ponza their incredibly limpid aspect, making it a paradise for those who love fishing and underwater diving. The queen of the Pontine Islands owes her crown and sceptre to her tiny port, to her Roman ruins and to the “special effects” of her many grottos.
Day 1
Discovering the Island
Arrival at Ponza by hydrofoil and transfer to typical island houses. Meeting with the guide who will describe the programme. Preliminary discovery of the island by climbing to the highest peak, Monte Guardia, an untouched area inhabited by wild fauna and scented with perfumed broom. The walk up is long but not arduous, and is rewarded by a fantastic all-round view. Picnic lunch. Return to the apartment accommodation during the evening. Dinner of fish specialities in a restaurant. Overnight stay.
2
A Kaleidoscope of Grottos
After breakfast, boat trip to discover the tufo-stone grotto of Piana Bianca, where different climatic conditions decorate the rock faces with superb colour effects. This is not the only “special” grotto on Ponza. Many of the small caves and inlets offer interesting optical effects, turning blue in certain lights. The island is full of natural caves that the ancient Romans used to breed fish in; vestiges of these breeding factories are still visible. We continue to the bays of Cala d’Inferno and Felci, stopping on the stony beaches to bathe in the clear waters and enjoy something to eat. Dinner at a local restaurant and
overnight stay.
3
Romance and the Bucolic Life
Breakfast and departure for Chiaia di Luna, the most famous and romantic place on the island. In the morning, climb by foot the tall rock face circling the beach. Here we will visit a Roman necropolis with its burial rooms hewn out of the rock. Picnic lunch. In the afternoon, after a relaxing swim, departure for Fieno, one of the few remaining agricultural areas. Dinner at a local restaurant and overnight stay.
4
Punta and Faraglioni della Madonna
After breakfast, last boat trip in these transparent waters. We will head for the Punta and the spectacular Faraglioni della Madonna, an area popular among underwater divers for its limpid shoals and numerous species of fish. Visit to the
Chapel of the Madonna of Salvation, hewn out of the rock. Departure.
