Fiordo di Crapolla

Fiordo di Crapolla is a true fjord squeezed between high rock walls, with a small white-pebble beach and deep blue water, within the Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area. It is reached only on foot from Torca, down 700 steps: spectacular but demanding.

Fiordo di Crapolla is a genuine fjord, narrow between rock walls tens of metres high, about 20 minutes by car from Villa Lorelei. You park in the little square of Torca, a hamlet of Massa Lubrense, and walk down following the signs from the square of the Church of San Tommaso Apostolo, descending 700 limestone steps, around one hour on foot to the sea. It is one of the hardest places to reach and among the most beautiful on the entire peninsula, and that is exactly why the locals love it.

The small beach is of white pebbles facing deep blue water, enclosed within the walls of the fjord in the Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area. Behind the shore lie ancient Roman cisterns for collecting rainwater, still used by local fishermen today, giving the place a timeless charm. There are no beach clubs or roads, only pristine nature, rocks to dive from, and crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling.

Mamy Lucia's tip: leave early in the morning and take the descent calmly, wearing sturdy trekking shoes, because the 700 steps are steep. Bring plenty of water, food for a picnic, a hat, and sun protection, since there are no services at the beach, and always allow for the effort of the climb back up.

It is ideal for hikers, nature lovers, and snorkeling enthusiasts, but only for those in good physical condition. Spring and early autumn are the best times, because the return climb under the summer sun is genuinely demanding and should be avoided during the hottest hours of the day.

Good to know: access is strictly on foot and the final climb of 700 steps is the toughest part of the excursion, so it is not suited to anyone unfit or with knee problems. A picnic area is available, but there are no bars or water points, so bring everything with you and carry all your litter back out to respect the marine protected area.