 Ponza won't appeal to the
tourist who wants something unusual from an Italian island. There's
a few good eating spots, beautiful clear
blue water, beaches, grottos and a quaint working harbor. Typical
of other Mediterranean islands. And you'll get to share it all with
the increasing number of visitors in July & August. Even then,
you won't quite catch the heartbeat of Ponza. It's an introverted
island, suiting itself best.
Italian families love the place. Many have second homes here. The
Romans are especially fond of it, making a pilgrimage to Ponza for
their summer holidays. Like the very famous designer family, the
Fendi's. Mostly for long weekends, since it's easy destination via
hydrofoil.
All that said, Ponza is a delightful island stop. Check out Chiaia
di Luna beach. Have someone take you by boat to the natural harbor,
Cala Fonte.
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The perfect
time to go is early September, when the island's stored-up
heat keeps the water & air temperatures warm. Restaurants & the
few accommodations are easier to book. And the Roman holiday-makers
are back home. Don't wait til' the end of September though.
By then it feels deserted. The 2,000 or so inhabitants have
already hibernated for the anticipated long, damp winter.
We
didn't really get a "handle" on Ponza. It was elusive
to us. But better to be on the outside, looking in, than never
to enjoy any view at all. We want to go back. But earlier in the
season next time. There's much more to Ponza's "soul" than
what we saw. We'll find a little more of it on our return.
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