A Visiti to the Punta Campanella Lighthouse
The Sorrento Peninsula is home to a mosaic of natural beauty and ancient history. This narrow strip of land is a paradise of dramatic cliffs, terraced lemon groves, and historic fishing villages. Sorrento, with its charming old town and spectacular views, serves as the gateway to other gems like Massa Lubrense, Nerano, and the turquoise Bay of Ieranto—all the way to the very edge of the land at Punta Campanella. Here, lies one of the peninsula’s most iconic landmarks: the Punta Campanella Lighthouse. Perfect for trekking lovers, history enthusiasts, and photography seekers.
Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area
Before talking about the lighthouse, we want to tell you something about the Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area. Created in 1997 to preserve one of Italy’s most diverse ecosystems, it covers 40 kilometers of coastline, and includes secluded coves, rocky promontories, and crystal-clear waters teeming with life—home to gorgonian corals, posidonia seagrass meadows, and countless marine species.
The area combines Mediterranean vegetation with limestone cliffs sculpted by centuries of wind and waves. In such landscape it is easy to find vantage points from which you’ll enjoy panoramic views stretching across the Li Galli islands, Capri, and the open sea. Archaeological remains, like the Temple of Athena (later transformed into a Christian sanctuary), highlight the site’s significance along ancient maritime trade routes.
Punta Campanella Lighthouse
The Punta Campanella Lighthouse stands at the very tip of the Sorrento Peninsula, within the municipality of Massa Lubrense. Perched on a rocky headland, it marks the natural boundary between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno—a location considered strategic since antiquity. Ancient Greek and Roman civilizations built votive temples and watchtowers here to oversee maritime routes.
Built in the 19th century, the lighthouse was designed to ensure safe navigation through an area known for strong currents and narrow sea passages. Its whitewashed square base is topped by a cylindrical lantern tower visible from miles away, especially on clear nights. Now fully automated, the lighthouse preserves a timeless charm, with waves crashing below and Capri’s cliffs dominating the horizon.
Nearby, you’ll find the ruins of a 16th-century Viceroyal Guard Tower, built to protect the coastline from Saracen raids. Together, these landmarks create an evocative atmosphere where history, legend, and modern navigation coexist.
Why Visit Punta Campanella Lighthouse
1) A Mythical Place
Walking the trail to the lighthouse feels like stepping into an ancient myth. According to legend, Odysseus built a temple here in honor of Athena after resisting the Sirens, whose songs were said to echo off these cliffs. This mythological aura still lingers in the air, making Punta Campanella a spiritual and evocative place.
2) Best Views of Capri
For travelers searching for the best panoramic views of Capri, the lighthouse offers an unrivaled vantage point. On clear days, you can easily spot the Faraglioni rock formations and the profile of Mount Solaro. At sunset, the horizon transforms into a spectacular palette of gold, rose, and crimson, creating an unforgettable experience.
3) A Photographer’s Paradise
Punta Campanella is also a dream for photography enthusiasts. The interplay of the whitewashed lighthouse, the deep blue Tyrrhenian Sea, and the surrounding Mediterranean landscape makes it one of the most photogenic spots on the Sorrento Peninsula. Thanks to its secluded location, the area remains tranquil, far from the crowds.
How to Reach Punta Campanella Lighthouse
The lighthouse is not accessible by car. To reach it, follow the Punta Campanella trekking trail, starting from Termini, a small hamlet of Massa Lubrense. From Piazza Santa Croce, a scenic 3.5 km path (around 7 km round trip) takes you through unpaved sections, gentle slopes, and panoramic viewpoints. The difficulty is moderate, so the trail is suitable for hikers with basic fitness. Anyway, always remember to wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and avoid the midday sun during summer.
Nearby Attractions: What to See Around Punta Campanella
You can enhance your visito to the lighthouse by exploring nearby spots on the Sorrento Peninsula:
- Bay of Ieranto – A FAI-protected area, reachable only on foot, known for its crystal-clear waters and marine biodiversity.
- Marina del Cantone – A charming fishing village with a pebble beach and excellent seafood restaurants.
- Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi – A scenic spot offering views of both the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno.
- Sorrento – Only a few kilometers away, offering art, culture, shopping, and world-famous cuisine.
- Capri – Just a short boat ride from Marina della Lobra or Sorrento, perfect for a day trip.
An ideal itinerary could include a morning hike to the lighthouse, lunch in a coastal village, and a refreshing afternoon swim in one of the region’s beaches.
Are you coming to the Sorrento Peninsula? Discover our properties for rent in Sorrento and the other towns.
