(map) 
In Homer’s Odyssey, Ulysses sailed along the Italian coast from Sicily, where he encountered the Cyclops and the Sirens, up to Latina, where he almost fell under the spell of Circe, the sorceress. Who wouldn’t be tempted by the stunning view of the Mediterranean from Mount Circeo, which rises above the old Pontine Marshes?
In the mid 1930s, the 8000-hectare Circe National Park (Parco Nazionale Circeo) was established to protect the natural forests, while the fetid Pontine Marshes below were drained and became the Agro Pontino, a verdant agricultural area.
Travel 100 km south of Rome to the coast of Latina and you can sail the Pontine Lagoons, hike the mountain trails, ferry to Ponza Island, stroll twenty km of dunes and beaches, or amble through the charming village of San Felice Circeo, perched high above the coast.
Oh, and don’t forget to sample the mozzarella di bufala, made fresh daily!
- Contributed by Sharri Whiting (www.sharriwhiting.com). Sharri writes about culture, food, wine and travel. She lectures about Mediterranean culture on cruises and writes a blog, UmbriaBella. She manages La Casetta Rosa (www.umbriabella.com), a vacation rental villa located in Umbria between Todi and Montefalco.
Once again an interesting instance of the classical world still being with us! Excellent note & photos Sharri.
Thank you so much, what a wonderful trip down memory lane. I spent a summer when I was little in Sabaudia which is nearby and I could see the stunning profile of Monte Circeo from the beach.
Ah, I’ve noticed that the Anarchy of the Automobile hasn’t yet reached the piazza in the last photo which reminds me of the Italy of almost fifty years ago that I have so many precious fond memories of; a much more silent Italia. “Thanks for the memories” Sharri….!!!
Love the mention of The Oddessy, and the legend of Circe , in conjunction with the history of the country. Wonderful!!!