Fiordo di Crapolla

The Fiordo di Crapolla is a narrow inlet on the coast of Massa Lubrense in Campania, Italy, reached by a stairway of roughly 700 steps from Torca, off Via Cafariello. At the bottom lies a pebble beach, the small chapel of San Pietro, and the remains of a Roman wall, enclosed by steep cliffs. The frame is that of a hidden cove: the pebble beach and clear water in the foreground, the chapel and Roman ruins in the middle, and the steep green walls rising on both sides with a narrow slice of sea. Midday is the best period for light, since the sun is high enough to reach the cove floor, while early morning and late afternoon leave much of it in shade. Spring and early autumn, May to June and September to October, offer comfortable temperatures for the climb and clear water; summer heat makes the return climb demanding. A wide-angle lens handles the cove, and a light tripod helps in the shaded parts of the descent and for long exposures of the shoreline. Hiking shoes are important for the steps and loose stones. The beach is small and fairly quiet because of the long climb, though summer weekends can bring more visitors. There is no fee known to enter, but visitors should check local conditions and the state of the stairs. Drone flights are restricted by Italian aviation rules and the surrounding protected coast. No services exist at the beach, so visitors should carry water and use cafes in Torca for restrooms. The climb back takes considerable effort, so photographers should allow extra time and avoid the heat of the day.