Circeo National Park, Lazio: Beaches, Trails & Lagoons

UNESCO MaB Biosphere Reserve

Since 1977, Circeo National Park has been part of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme. In 2013, the reserve was expanded to include Sabaudia, San Felice Circeo, and parts of Latina and Terracina. The recognition highlights the park’s role in balancing conservation with sustainable human use. This status ensures international protection for its wetlands, dunes, and forests.

Monte Circeo Hike and the Promontory Trails

Monte Circeo rises 541 meters above the Tyrrhenian Sea. The mountain is the park’s symbol and offers wide coastal views. Several marked routes climb its slopes, ranging from easy one-hour walks to three-hour hikes. The classic peak trail from Torre Paola is currently closed for safety reasons. Alternative routes such as Sentiero 751 (Uliveto) or 754 (Mura Ciclopiche) remain open. Trail status may change, so always check with the Visitor Centre before setting out. Hikers discover Cyclopean Walls built in pre-Roman times, shady woods of holm oak, and rocky viewpoints overlooking Sabaudia and the Pontine Islands.

Sabaudia Beaches and Dunes

Sabaudia beach is one of Lazio’s most celebrated stretches of sand. Awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness and services, it stretches for kilometers beneath the dunes. Wooden boardwalks protect the fragile environment and provide access to wide sandy shores. The dunes are home to Mediterranean scrub, rare orchids, and shifting sands shaped by the sea breeze. The beaches are generally family-friendly, with lifeguarded sections ensuring safe swimming. Walkers can follow the shoreline toward Torre Paola for scenic views.

San Felice Circeo Old Town

San Felice Circeo sits on the slopes of the promontory. The medieval old town is a maze of narrow alleys, stone houses, and small piazzas. From the acropolis above town, the Cyclopean Walls built by ancient settlers still stand. The San Felice lighthouse offers sunset views across the Tyrrhenian Sea. Cafés, restaurants, and boutique stays make the old town a charming base for exploring the park.

Lago di Paola and the Villa of Domitian

Lake Paola (Lago di Paola) lies behind the dunes of Sabaudia. This brackish lagoon is rich in birdlife and history. Along its shores stand the ruins of the Villa of Domitian, once the emperor’s grand seaside retreat. Visitors can explore the remains of baths, mosaics, and piers that once stretched into the lake. Today, the lagoon is also used for rowing, canoeing, and kayaking with authorised local operators who ensure activities respect the fragile ecosystem.

Lago di Fogliano Birdwatching

Lago di Fogliano is the largest of the park’s four coastal lakes and a prime site for birdwatching. Herons, egrets, and cormorants are regular sightings. In autumn and winter, flamingos arrive in striking numbers, while spring and summer bring other migratory species. The area is equipped with observation hides and walking trails. Lago di Caprolace and Lago dei Monaci also form part of the wetland network, each with its own habitats and bird species.

Torre Paola

Torre Paola guards the southern end of Sabaudia beach. This coastal tower was built in the 16th century to defend against pirates. Today, it marks the start of popular hiking routes. Its stone walls rise above the sea, offering a scenic contrast to the dunes and mountain behind.

Grotta Guattari and Neanderthal Heritage

Near San Felice Circeo lies Grotta Guattari, one of Europe’s most important Neanderthal sites. Archaeologists discovered skulls and bones dating back tens of thousands of years. Access is by guided visit only and usually arranged through local tourism offices, so advance booking is essential. Combined with the myths of Circe, the cave adds a deep human story to the natural park.

Zannone Island

Zannone Island belongs to the Pontine archipelago and is part of the park. It is uninhabited and strictly protected. Visitors can reach it by authorised boat trips, usually departing from Ponza. Walking trails cross Mediterranean scrub and lead to views of steep cliffs and the open sea. Wild goats roam freely, and ruins of a former monastery hint at past settlements. Zannone is a rare chance to experience pristine island nature.