The only inlet at the end of the Sorrentine peninsula, Ieranto has provided the source for myths and legends amid the silvery green of the olive trees, the crystalline blue of the bay, the landscape of the sea stacks that it faces and the remnants of its recent industrial past.
Donated to FAI by Italsider in 1987
Located directly across from the sea stacks of Capri, Ieranto Bay opens onto a natural scene of such beauty that the Sirens themselves chose it for their home. According to Pliny the Elder, it was precisely here that Ulysses encountered them on his way back to Ithaca, as recounted by Homer in the Odyssey – just one of the testimonies of how, since time immemorial, this enchanting tract of the Campanian coast has offered up beauty and inspiration, but also fruits and resources, thanks to its fecund earth and rich subsoil.
The ancient agricultural tradition echoes in the indigenous techniques used for the cultivation of the citrus trees and in the terraces of olive trees, now given a new lease of life. The landscape also plays host to the defensive towers of Montalto and Campanella, which have borne witness to episodes of Saracen piracy. Significant marks have also been made on this land by the recent industrial past, associated with a limestone quarry that fell into disuse in the 1950s.
Donated to FAI so that it would not be subject to the danger of speculation, the bay has undergone substantial environmental restoration interventions geared towards reinstating the original Mediterranean maquis: from rosemary to euphorbia and juniper. Today, Ieranto is recognised as a Site of Community Importance, and is included within the Marine Protected Area of Punta Campanella. Moreover, its high level of biodiversity makes it an ideal destination for those who like to come into contact with nature at its most untainted, also by engaging in stimulating, enjoyable experiences such as birdwatching, kayaking and snorkelling, as well as botanical strolls and even workshops for children.
Ieranto Bay is open to the public every day, from dawn until one hour before sunset.
The property can only be reached on foot along a path that is in parts challenging, starting from Nerano and taking around 40 minutes.
To reach Nerano (province of Naples):
- by car: A3 Naples-Salerno Motorway (“Autostrada Napoli-Salerno A3”), take the Castellamare di Stabia exit and head for Sorrento-Massa Lubrense. Then continue on to Nerano.
- by public transport: by bus from Sorrento, on the Sorrento - Marina del Cantone line, get off at Nerano.
Finding somewhere to park in Nerano can be challenging.
Access to the paths is unconstrained and free of charge.
Guided tours
You can book a guide for a better-informed visit to the bay. The guided tour, which lasts 1-2 hours, allows you to learn in more detail about all the culture, archaeology, landscape and natural history of the site, now being fully revealed thanks to the restorations.
Guided tours for schools
Guided tours for school groups are also available. Prior booking required. For more information, call (+39) 335 8410253 or visit the FAI Scuola site.
Disabled visitors can access free-of-charge those FAI properties that are open to the public by showing their ANMIC (Associazione Nazionale Mutilati e Invalidi Civili) card.
The site is challenging to access by those who have problems walking. Please contact the property for more information.
There is a fully equipped picnic area.
Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Dogs are permitted on condition that they remain on the leash.
Choose the bay for your events
Ieranto Bay: history, landscape and panoramas on the Sorrento Coast
A place of untainted beauty opposite the sea stacks of Capri, set against the stunning seascape of the Marine Protected Area of Punta Campanella, the bay is the perfect backdrop for events immersed in the natural world.
Moreover, by choosing a FAI property as a venue for your events, you are contributing to the conservation and protection of Italy’s heritage.
What can you do at Ieranto Bay?
Private events
Wedding receptions; private parties; concerts; presentation of products and books.
Corporate away days
M.I.C.E. events, team-building activities.
Photo/video shoots
For information
Antonella De Angelis
Tel. (+39) 335 8410253
a.deangelis@fondoambiente.it
