I Lived in Italy and This Lesser-known Island With Dreamy Coastlines, a Gelato Boat, and a Confetti-colored Fishing Village Is My Favorite Seaside Destination

"Hundreds of fishing boats are moored for the evening, and voices spill from the eateries that hug the crescent-shaped harbor. The smell of fish hangs in the air. Rome, where I was just hours ago-only about 70 miles across the stretch of Tyrrhenian Sea that divides us-feels far, far away."

"I've developed a penchant for volcanic islands and am thrilled to learn Ponza is what remains of an extinct, submerged volcano. It's early July, and my husband and I will spend 10 car-free days exploring the coastline and culture of this beguiling yet elemental island."

"Though Ponza has remained untapped by international tourism, it's been a hot spot for Romans for centuries. My Italian friends have never been to Ponza, which has been overshadowed by Capri, Ischia, even Procida."

Ponza is a small Italian island formed from an extinct, submerged volcano located approximately 70 miles from Rome across the Tyrrhenian Sea. Despite its proximity to the mainland and centuries of popularity among Romans, the island has remained largely untouched by international tourism, overshadowed by more famous destinations like Capri and Ischia. The island features a picturesque harbor filled with fishing boats, colorful villages, and local eateries. A traveler experienced in Italian destinations chooses to explore Ponza's car-free coastline and culture, staying in the residential area of Le Forna to experience authentic local life while remaining close to scenic coves and sunsets overlooking the Pontine Islands.

Read at Travel + Leisure