Complete Guide on How to Get to Ponza: Travel Ideas and Practical Tips on What to See During Your Stay on the Island.
The island of Ponza is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful and well-known gems of Latina, in Lazio. Located facing the Gulf of Gaeta, it represents a particularly ideal destination for those who have a weekend or a few days of vacation available. It is the largest of the Pontine Islands and ranks at the top of the list of the most picturesque and attraction-rich places in Italy. If you are thinking of organizing a day trip in these areas, we have prepared an article for you with all the information on how to get to Ponza and what to see.
How to Get to Ponza: All Transportation Options
The island of Ponza is well-connected to the main ports on the western coast of Italy, and there are various transportation options you can take to reach it. The most common is the ferry that departs from the ports of Naple, Formia, Anzio, or Terracina, especially recommended if you’re traveling with your car. Then there’s the hydrofoil, a faster option (the journey takes about an hour and a half on average) departing from Formia and Anzio. If you prefer to be autonomous even in sea travel, know that numerous rental activities are available for a private boat.
The Best Things to See in Ponza
Once you’ve established how to get to the island, you’ll need to organize your itinerary and discover the best things to see in Ponza. From relaxing on the beach to visiting historical artifacts, there are many activities to do on the island. Here’s a list for you.
The Natural Pools of Ponza
Also called “Fontone,” the natural pools of Ponza are located near Cala Feola. This is one of the rare beaches accessible on foot which, thanks to its shallow waters, is also an ideal destination for families travelling with kids. You can reach this location either by water taxi or shuttle bus. If you enjoy hiking, know that the excursion to reach the Fontone is via a rock staircase of about 300 steps. On-site, you can then find a facility where you can rent umbrellas, sun loungers, canoes, and pedalos. If you’re traveling by car or scooter, make a note to also visit Cala dell’Acqua, a location composed of rocks where you can relax and benefit from the fantastic view of Palmarola.
What to See in Ponza: Pilate’s Caves
Among the things to see in Ponza are the Pilate’s Caves, famous Roman caverns carved into the tuff. The name derives from Pontius Pilate, a young man from a noble family whose legend says he was sent to Ponza to quell a feud. In reality, he not only stayed there for his entire life but also became its governor. Pilate’s caves create plays of light generated by water in contact with the rocks. Snorkeling enthusiasts, equipped with a wetsuit and buoy, can reach the caves directly from the port of Ponza, or if you prefer to visit them via a cruise in a single day, it’s possible to book a tour departing from Rome.
Historic Center of Ponza
The historic center of Ponza represents a contrast between the 18th-century past and the contemporaneity of pastel-colored Mediterranean houses. The pulsating heart is Via Pisacane, where most hotels, restaurants, and typical shops gather. Here we recommend visiting the Church of San Silverio and Santa Domitilla, where you can admire precious frescoes and mosaics of San Silverio, the patron saint of Ponza.
The Lighthouse of Capo Ponza
The Lighthouse of Capo Ponza, located on the homonymous promontory on the island of Ponza, is one of the most important maritime signals in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Built in 1884 on a 12th-century Saracen tower, the lighthouse stands 110 meters above sea level, and its white light is visible up to 33 nautical miles. From here, you can enjoy a spectacular panorama of the sea. A visit at sunset is highly recommended.
What to See in Ponza: The Village of Santa Maria and Le Forna
At the end of this list of what to see in Ponza are the Village of Santa Maria and the Le Forna area. These are two very easy-to-reach locations as they are both situated near the ferry landing. They are the ideal place for those seeking peace and tranquility away from mass tourism. Here you can immerse yourself in ancient stories and legends, discovering the most authentic Ponza. Among the mandatory stops in Le Forna are the Faraglioni of Lucia Rosa. These rock formations take their name from a legend from the late 1800s that tells of a young woman who, jumping from them, took her life for love. Offshore from the Faraglioni, you will encounter the “secca dei mattoni,” a reserve where you can admire the transparent and crystal-clear water.
