Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Have a look at the mosaics within the 17th-century church here, then carry on along Salita Castello
beside the crumbling 16th-century
Castello d'Avalos
, until you reach the canons. You are now in
Procida's ancient Terra Murata district. Walk through the
Porta Romantica
tunnel and follow signs
to the Belvedere. Turn right on Via San Michele through the
Porta di Mezzomo
and stop for an ice
cream at hole-in-the-wall
Bar del Castello
. Turn left along Borgo San Michele and continue on to
the Belvedere to feast your eyes on the spectacular Bay of Naples' view.
Double back 20m and turn left to the
Abbazia di San Michele Arcangelo
; the chapel here dates
from the 7th century. Retrace your steps and head for the back of the chapel up Via Concetta Bacca and
Via Canalone from where you have a good view of the abandoned church (which is gradually being re-
stored)
Santa Margherita Vecchia
. Continue along to the end and turn right through a small tunnel
flanked by simple houses. Continue down Via Guarrancino and return via Porta di Mezzomo. Around
50m further on, take the steep steps to your right continuing down to the former moat, flanked by surreal
ridged rock. Emerge at the former
Penitenziari di Grazia
prison and take the path down to join the
road that meets Piazza dei Martiri. Descend the steps to the marina. Walk along this lovely picturesque
beach until you reach some steep steps on your right. Take Via Bernado Scotti, flanked by orchards, and
turn left at the T-junction past the 18th century
Chiesa San Leonardo
to the turn off to Via Principe
Umberto and retrace your steps to the marina.
MARINA DI CHIAIOLELLA
All pink, white and blue, crescent-shaped
Marina di Chiaiolella
was once the crater of a
volcano. Today it features a yacht-stocked marina, old-school eateries and a relaxed laid-
back charm. From the pier, you can catch a brightly painted water taxi to reach several su-
perb beaches in the surrounding area (from €8). The crystal clear waters around here are
perfect for diving too.
Procida Diving Centre
( 081 896 83 85; Via Cristoforo Colombo 6, Marina di Chiaiolella; May-Oct; )
Conveniently located right on the marina, this well-established outfit organises dives and
courses, and hires out equipment. Depending on your level, there are four diving sites in
Procida: Punta Pizzaco (intermediate to experienced); Secca delle Formiche (beginner- in-
termediate); Capo Bove (beginner); and Punta Solchiaro (intermediate). The price ranges
from €45 for a single dive to €130 for a snorkelling course with more advanced open-wa-
ter diving and rescue courses also on offer.
DIVING
