Located at the tip of the Amalfi coast, in the Neapolitan Gulf, a small island faces the Vesuvius.
You can access it by Naples's main harbor, the Molo Beverello, in a 45-minute-crossing with the aliscafo* fast boat to Capri.
When you arrive to the Marina Grande harbor, join Capri-Town, the lively city center by funicular.
L'Isola Azzura* The blue island perfectly reveals itself during low season (May for Marcellooo!). A mild mediterranean climate ideal for visits and outside lunches on terraces. The traffic is smooth, the roads are narrow and steep. Even at this time of the year you won't be able to avoid the cruise passengers in transit for a few hours.
Untamed Nature
Bushes, maritime pines, vivid fragrant flowers, vines, citruses and olive trees. From one of the numerus belvedere (Punta Cannone, or giardini di Augusto) you can admire the impressive rock walls and Faraglioni. On the south, contemplate the three iconic emerging rocks. On these steep reliefs, stairs are a recurring way to access houses and beaches. Dive into the deep sea, and admire the harmonies of blue : sky, sea, pool,ceramic and colors found in the architecture. Here is the soundtrack.
Fascination
Described as one of the "magnetic point of the universe", the island has attracted from the antiquity to nowadays many renowned figures from aristocrats, noble, authors and artists. #remainfocus a little history lesson.
You can visit the archaeological site from the Villa Jovis, which belonged to the roman empereur Tiberius. You can also explore the Villa San Michele and its panoramical view garden, designed by the philanthropist doctor and author Axel Munthe in the 18th century.
After a VERY long walk you will be able to see a project initiated in the 30's by Adalberto Libera, the rationalist architect. The Villa Malaparte has a roof-staircase (which allows you to reach the skies) made famous by the French movie "Le mépris" (Jean-Luc Godard, 1963). Between fantasies and reality, Jacky Kennedy, Grace Kelly & the Prince Rainier, Sophia Loren, Cocteau or Picasso were amazed by the undeniable charm of the island. The luxury chains bloom around the Piazzetta. In the summer of 2016, Beyonce was spotted at the Aurora Capri restaurant, a must for the stars on the island. #Iwastheretoo
Con vista*
In Capri, you can enjoy a room con vista* with view on the horizon in the middle of the pines, in Casa Morgano Hotel ♡. For dinner, walk a few steps into a flower filled alley to sit at the nearby Terrazza Brunella con vista* admire a wonderful Capri sunset and sea view. As a primo piatto* starter we recommend a local specialty, the lemon risotto, the emblematic fruit of the island. As a secondo piatto*, dish, pick (according to availability)la Pezzogna* local sea bream with a white and tender flesh. At the end of the meal the restaurant's staff probably won't forget to offer you a limoncello. For the uninitiated, an often very sweet local liquor from the region obtained by maceration of lemon peels. A little authorized ritual since you can't drive on the island. Another option in the city center next to the Piazzetta is a tasty pizza from Da Giorgio, in a traditional frame con vista* of the Vesuvius. To enjoy a first bath al mare* in the sea, next to the Marina Piccola, La Fontelina lido faces the impressives Faraglioni.
Around 15 € the full day.
Fifteen minutes away by taxi or minibus, is the other municipality of the island, Anacapri which is far more discreet. Stroll around the Orlandi lane to experience the artisanal life and contemplate the Tavassi ceramics workshop/boutique. Visit la chiesa di San Michele and have lunch on the charming Piazza Diaz at the l’Angolo del Gusto. The chair lift to Mont Solaro is an absolute must. There, you will admire on the horizon the Neapolitan and Amalfi coasts with 360° vista*. Treat yourself to the luxurious at the Capri Palace Hotel, and enjoy its owner's fabulous art collection. Hop on the shuttle for a 15 minutes ride to get to the chic and private beach club which included entrance, Il Riccio. Perfect to eat a fresh fish or grilled octopus. The waiters are impeccable and you can relax on lettini*deckchairs installed on a rock terrace. The desert room is absolutely " meraviglioso".
Verify lidos* beach club opening dates before hand.
Capri By... 3 QUESTIONS TO ADRIANA BALBI
Front desk manager at the Hotel La Floridiana Capri.
1/ AN IDEAL VIEW in Capri ?
The Piazetta delle Noci. You get there by slightly turning on the path that leads to the Arco Naturale. From the Terrace, the panorama is breathtaking: the Arco Naturale, the south side of the Mont Tiberio, la Punta Campanella, the Amalfi coast and the endless crystalline sea.
2/ A MUST SEE ADDRESS ?
Il Faro, a rocky bay where you can swim in crystal clear water. Its lighthouse and incredible sunlight from dusk to dawn makes it a unique place specially at sunset. The Punta carena lighthouse is the second biggest in Italy after the one in Genoa. Its lido* beach club is also quite protected from the crowds.
3/ AN EMBLEMATIC FIGURE FROM the région ?
Without hesitation, one of the most famous figure of the island is Guido Lembo, the Anema e Core restaurant's chef. A venue and character that makes the Caprese nights unforgettably festive.
