Capri, the Jewel of Campania

When I think of a jewel, the words dazzling, elitist, magnificent, luminous, and eye-catching come to mind. And that’s why when I think of Capri, I think of the word jewel. The jewel of Campania. With its delightful sites, breathtaking views, natural landscapes, and its well-know Faraglioni. The list of its charms is nearly endless… Today I’d like to take you on a tour of this stunning island. Ready?

 

MARINA GRANDE & MARINA PICCOLA

Marina Grande is our first stop in Capri, mostly because this is the docking point for ships, as it is the island’s only port. Upon arrival, don’t miss the public beach of Marina Grande, the island’s largest; it is a true pearl, and the perfect spot from which to see the Faraglioni. As legend has it, it was here that Ulysses was tempted by the Sirens’ song.

 

I FARAGLIONI

Our Capri tour begins with the Faraglioni: three seastacks that rise up from the sea… although they are a lot more than that. An excursion to see them up close will leave you in awe of their impressive size and the way the blue sea enhances their beauty.

Did you know that each of them has its own name? The first one is called Stella, the second Faraglione di Mezzo, and the third one Faraglione di Fuori. And did you know the latter is inhabited by a reptilian species known as the blue-tinted lizard? It is said that this animal gets its color from the blue of the surrounding waters and the sky, as camouflage.

If you’d like a little beach time after your boat tour, I suggest you go right nearby, where you’ll be able to taste some of the most typical local dishes.

 

LA GROTTA AZZURRA

Visiting this cave is just breathtaking. The sea turns a unique blue hue that gleams beautifully. Upon entering the cave everything is engulfed in darkness, but it soon starts to acquire color. The colors depend solely on the light entering the cave, bathing it in a magical aura. Boat tours of the cave last around 10 minutes and are available all-year-round, although they obviously depend on weather conditions.

 

LA PIAZZETTA DI CAPRI

We have now reached downtown Capri and are standing in the Piazzetta with its many bars, shops, jewelry shops and restaurants. Why not start off with a traditional Italian aperitif? We then carry on with our stroll down the shops and end up at a restaurant to enjoy the very best the traditional cuisine of the region has to offer. A leisurely walk through Capri is always a magical experience… the sound of street artists singing their songs, admiring its beauty in every corner. The view from the Piazzetta is one of my favorite things… and it is particularly beautiful at night, with the lighting.

 

THE GARDENS OF AUGUSTUS & VIA KRUPP

On the southern part of the island, we come across a strange structure: a long winding footpath connecting the Gardens of Augustus and Marina Piccola. This is Via Krupp, built at the whim of fancy of German tycoon Alfred Krupp, who in 1899 wanted to put an end to the intense workout that climbing up and down from the gardens to the coast was at the time. What could be better than a 1km 300m long zigzagging path to cover the elevation difference? The result was this architectural marvel from which to behold one of the best views over the island of Capri, including its Faraglioni.

We could say that Capri really has it all: sea, beaches, food, shops, relaxing spots and dreamy views. If you are planning a vacation, you are still on time to enjoy what this beautiful island has to offer, staying at one of our apartments.