MEZZAVALLE (part II): A secluded beach that's worth the hike

IT IS PRACTICALLY impossible not to pull over.

From the road, the turquoise water and white sand beaches look more like a postcard than natural Italian scenery.

A long dusty path lined with a wooden fence winds down to the beach. The rock-free soft dirt may be too difficult for a pair of flip-flops. Bare feet provide more grip and stability to combat the steep descent.

Along the path there are various look out points with wooden benches providing the perfect opportunity to rest and snap photos. The only thing more daunting than walking down the path is the prospect of the steep return trip home.

Once you have reached beach level, there is one small restaurant that serves typical beach snacks along with various seafood dishes. The fresh seafood is prepared on a grill that can be seen from the tablecloth covered picnic tables that look out on the water.

Unlike the other public beaches in the region, Mezzavalle is more natural. Free from rows of umbrellas, identical snack shops, and the traffic of busy roads, the beach has a secluded serenity as if only a small Italian population is aware of its location or willing to make the trek to its waters.

The sand is fine and white except where the waves roll in, leaving a strip of smooth colorful round stones. Glistening with salty seawater their dazzling colors and smooth textures tempt beachcombers to fill empty pockets.

Walking back up the path after a day on the sand, beads of sweat from the physically demanding ascent drip onto ocean water-covered skin, marking clinging clothes with a film of white salt.

Once at the top, however, a feeling of accomplishment adds a new dimension of finding the beautiful beach below.

The pocket full of rocks, now dry and free from the sun’s reflection are dull and rough, unimpressive out of their natural habitat.

Only another trip down to the beach can return the natural souvenirs to their brilliance.

- Philly Petronis