09 August 2018 We’re just going to stick to the old adage and recommend that you ‘do as the Romans do’ and escape the city for the seaside at these beaches near Rome. [caption id="attachment_6974" align="aligncenter" width="950"] Ponza Island It is just too hot to stay in the city through August. With the sea so close there is no reason to swelter either. We've rounded up the three best beaches to beat the heat near Rome. Anzio [caption id="attachment_6970" align="aligncenter" width="970"] The Grotta di Nerone in Anzio Located about 50 km outside of Rome, Anzio is both a top beaching spot and an important city along the coast of Lazio. Ferries, hydrofoils, fishing boats and float planes depart from the harbour and head out to the Pontine Islands. If you want to experience the Roman countryside and the stunning coast, Anzio is the perfect place to stay. It is only 25 minutes from Casale del Giglio, one of the premier wineries in Lazio and a member of the Grand Wine Tour. Anzio boasts of blue flag beaches, indicating environmental excellence, and an impressive history. Check out the ruins of Nero’s seaside villa or partake in a more sombre moment at the Beachhead Museum, a monument to the Allied landing in Anzio during World War II. Sperlonga [caption id="attachment_6978" align="aligncenter" width="970"] Sperlonga This little village built on a cliff could rival Ravello or Amalfi in beauty. The whitewashed buildings rise high over the sea, providing amazing views no matter where you look. And the best part is that it is relatively unknown, at least to most travelers. Lacking the crowds doesn’t mean a lack of character, mind. In the 1950’s and ‘60s Sperlonga has a celebrity haven, with the likes of Bridget Bardot and Raf Vallone escaping the media-eye in Rome for a moment of tranquility. It also attracted big-name authors such as John Cheever and Arthur Miller for its peaceful views and laid-back luxury. Sperlonga is 90 minutes from Rome on transit and a little less by car, the perfect place for a weekend one the sea. Ponza [caption id="attachment_6976" align="alignleft" width="564"] An idyllic day in Ponza The island of Ponza is like something out of a picture book. The true Mediterranean dream. The largest of the Pontine Islands, Ponza is a small rock that juts out of the sea some 50km off Lazio’s shore. It is a place of simple luxuries. Amazing seafood, jaw dropping views, stunning villas and of course the shimmering turquoise sea. Ponza attracts the rich and beautiful due to its rustic charm that many other Mediterranean islands have lost to nightlife scenes, big resorts and crowds of people. Charter a boat from Anzio so that you can sail around the island, exploring the endless grottos and micro beaches that dot the rocky shore. The Grand Wine Tour is a mark of excellence in hospitality distinguishing Italian wineries throughout the country. Book your tasting and tour today!