Just beyond the village of Nerano on the Sorrentine Peninsula you can find Baia di Ieranto, a long blue inlet with a small but perfect beach where, legend has it, the Sirens once played.
Take the path marked via ieranto to the right of the main road. Level at first, the path ascends past flowering marjoram and straggly olive trees before descending to what is, quite simply, one of the loveliest bays in a country of lovely bays.You'll climb the Saracen watchtower, learn about the site's geology and wildlife, and meet Salvatore, the sunburned guardian of the reserve.
The bay is owned by the Fondo per l'Ambiente Italiano (FAI), Italy's equivalent of the National Historic Landmarks Program. Entrance is free, but call ahead to arrange a visit through the local FAI representative, Antonella De Angelis (+39-335/841-0253).
Boat transfers from Marina del Cantone or Positano can also be organized.
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