Circeo and the Pontine islands

Circeo and the Pontine islands

Spend a day outside of the capital and discover beautiful beaches, ancient caves, lush woods and unforgettable islands. Here we offer two options; visit the coastal towns and surrounding nature or head to Anzio and jump on a hydrofoil that will take you to Pontine islands. We will head down south to Gaeta which is known principally for its seaport and Gaeta Castle, once used as a royal residence, army barracks, and even a prison. Then time to grab a quick refreshment and we are ready to get to know the town. Next we will travel just a few kilometres further south and stop at the Circeo, in Sperlonga. From there, we can choose to take a boat to the Grotta di Tiberio to see the treasures of the ancient Romans. The next part of our journey takes us to Terracina where we visit the cathedral of San Cesario and the Temple of Giove Anxur, a place of worship dating back to the 1st century B.C. A quick ride and we are in San Felice, where we will stroll through the characteristic historic center. At the feet of Monte Circeo, San Felice forms one of the gateways to the National Park of the Circeo and its fascinating series of caves. You can opt for a visit to the Grotta dei Guaccerior Grotta della Maga Circe or just hangout and relax a little longer in San Felice. Proceeding along the coast, we arrive in Sabaudia, the most glamorous of Circeo's seaside resorts, characterized by gorgeous beaches, secluded bays and a marvelous azur sea. For nature lovers, just a few kilometers away, there are Circeo's four coastal lakes, the most important of which is the Lago di Paola, a saltwater lake attracting dozens of species of migratory birds. Next stop, Nettuno: the origins of which are linked to the temple dedicated to Neptune, god of the sea. A well known sea resort, Nettuno boasts both a castle and, just a few kilometers from the center, another fortress. Another option is to start the day by driving to Anzio. Where the beaches greet tourists with a mixture of sea and ancient Roman ruins, the most important of which is the Villa di Nerone, residence of the emperor who made Anzio an important port. To this very day, life in Anzio still centers around its port from where each day the hydrofoils boound for the Pontine Islands. We will take a ride on the hydrofoil to discover Ponza, the perfect mix between slow and chic. Be a part of a slow pace and laid-back atmosphere sitting at the local piazza and sipping cappuccino and sampling local dolci (sweets). Stroll through the maze of the little streets and discover the island on foot. Explore unspoiled nature and amazing coastal lime-blue caves, beautiful cliffs gorgeous beaches, all surrounded by emerald, crystal clear waters. Next, we have two options for you - take a boat ride and admire the island and it’s fascinating coastline from the water or hop on a jeep or buggy, drive around the island to discover more secluded spots. For the ones seeking some physical activity we propose a climb up the hill to the Necropolis and admire the views and pristine nature. Why not visit nearby islands? From Ponza, each island is just 30 minutes away by motor boat. Both Palmarola and Zannone are protected nature reserves.