Food lovers, pleasure seekers and wanderers, searching for a life of idleness?
The island of Capri, bathed by the crystal waters of the golf of Naples, possesses irresistible charms that are guaranteed to seduce you. Fragrant gardens in charming passages, dizzying cliffs at exclusive spots, secret coves with gourmet bars: we have thought of everything to ensure you can experience “la Dolce Vita” to the fullest.
1960s French crooner Hervé Villard famously sang: ‘Capri is over’.
But he was wrong – your weekend has only just begun.
Drop anchor in Capri
Rising proudly from the Mediterranean Sea, opposite the Sorrento peninsula, the island of Capri can be reached in 50 minutes of sailing from the city of Naples, where your plane will land.
The rocky island, emerging from the waters in 50 shades of blue and overlooking the Vesuvius, instantly fills your vision. You will quickly understand why this island has been coveted since Antiquity because of its beauty. From André Gide to Picasso, through to Jean Cocteau or Jacqueline Kennedy: all were seduced by the compelling landscapes and dazzling light of Capri.
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“La Palma”
Now, it will be your turn to fall under the spell of the radiant establishment that will be opening its doors to you in the summer of 2022, just around the corner from the famous Piazza Umberto I.
The “La Palma” hotel, a small gem overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is the product of the collaboration of renowned architects and designers, who were let loose within the walls of the oldest guesthouse on the island (1822). To revive its historic charm, some original elements have been preserved. The owner initially welcomed travellers to his villa for the pleasure of long conversations. Often, his guests were painters, writers and musicians. All expressed their gratitude by painting the walls, writing poems, singing and playing music in what was once known as the hotel of “artists”.
As for the “far niente”, the pleasure of doing nothing, a private beach club is located just a few minutes away at Marina Piccola. At sunset, head to the rooftop bar with unobstructed views of the horizon. And to ensure maximum relaxation, wander over to the newly built swimming pool or full spa.
Some ideas to customise your trip with Team Charly:
For a unique, authentic and inimitable voyage.
• Explore the secret caves and coves of Capri on a private boat with a local guide, a passionate native of the island of Capri.
• Experience a helicopter flyover over Capri.
• Stay at one of the island’s trendiest and most exclusive establishments.
• Offer yourself an interlude of idleness and glamour in a classic beach hut on the sea shore.
Timeless wanderlust
As the sun hugs the horizon, the ferries return to the mainland, leaving the island in peace as it basks in the evening sun. This is the perfect time to head in the opposite direction of the crowd and go explore the town of Capri, which can be reached by funicular.
The island’s white houses, cobbled streets, chic boutiques and flowered courtyards will enhance your enjoyment of a gentle stroll through the town. Nobody can resist the temptation of a stop in the small Umberto I square, the nerve centre of the village, better known as the Piazzetta. A Spritz or a glass of white wine in hand, you can toast to the good life.
Do you love authentic towns with bucolic charm? Then head for Anacapri, perched high up on the western side of the island. Along its narrow, shaded streets that would not look out of place in a Greek village, you will be greeted by the enchanting sight of baroque churches, bohemian boutiques, before admiring the works of art of Villa San Michele. Anacapri, as you may have gathered, shows a different side of the island, more peaceful and rural, yet equally captivating.
Discoveries in blue
The best way to explore the island of Capri is from the sea, discovering its vertiginous cliffs and secret creeks in a symphony of dazzling blues. Would you like to explore this heavenly island from a different perspective? Your captain will be waiting for you at the Marina Grande port, to set sail towards the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
The iconic Faraglioni di Capri and their limestone peaks tell the story of the erosion of these patches of land rising up from the sea. Not far away, you will penetrate the rocky interior of the famous Grotta Azzurra [blue cave]. When you see its waters, in shades of electric blue, you may ask yourself, is this a surrealist vision, or are these special effects? Certainly not! This effect is created by the refraction of the light penetrating the cave, which gives it its unique, dreamlike reflections.
When it’s time for lunch, you will head for the emblematic Fontelina beach, where echoes of the stars of the big screen reverberate among the rocks. In the shade of a wooden pergola, grilled fish, antipasti, burrata, spaghetti alle vongole and limoncello will overwhelm all of your senses…
To regain your composure after this gastronomic tour-de-force, a deckchair reserved in your name will be waiting for you, for an interlude of idleness, with the sea as your horizon. Or maybe you would prefer to explore the deep waters around the island of Capri? Hidden caves and secret bays conceal majestic reefs that will delight snorkelling enthusiasts.
Would you like to go higher? Climb to the top of Monte Solaro, the highest point of the island, with an elevation of 598 metres. Ascend by chairlift (vertigo sufferers – you have been warned!) or on foot, and you will be met with magnificent views of the island and the bay of Naples, that are sure to astonish you.
Villa Jovis, also known as Palazzo de Tiberio (Tiberius’ palace) will remind you of Roman emperor Tiberius’ stay on the island of Capri. Its archaeological site, brimming with beauty, opens up like a balcony overlooking the volcanic island of Ischia and the gulf of Salerno.
But those who love walking will prefer the paths that pass by the forts and the Via Tragara, interspersed with maritime caves, luxuriant vegetation and rocky formations. At the end of your walk, the Arco Naturale will greet you with the breath-taking sight of its iconic arch overhanging the coastline below.
Finally, the Gardens of Augustus, created at the behest of German industrialist Alfred Krupp, will lead you to the heart of its flower-decked terraces, brimming with life and colours. From its panoramic viewpoint, you will enjoy breath-taking views over the hairpin bends of Via Krupp and of the Faraglioni, rising in the background.
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Do you love magical sunsets? Punta Carena, dominated by its lighthouse, will provide front-row seats to nature’s spectacle, as you tune in to the sight of a horizon on the cusp between dream and reality.
Later, the aromas of limoncello and seafood pasta will make your mouth water. Time to head for one of the island’s gourmet eateries…
Perhaps a table under the legendary lemon trees to finish your day off on a romantic note? Or maybe a cosy dinner to enjoy the Mediterranean-inspired creations of chef Eduardo Estatico? Unless you would prefer the subtle cuisine of a Michelin-starred restaurant… Whatever your mood at the time, the Looking for Charly team will find the right spot for you.
Finally, to end your weekend on a festive note, head on down to Taverna Anema e Core, just around the corner from La Palma, where you will find the beating heart of Capri’s nightlife, throbbing with the sounds of Neapolitan guitars. The chic and electrified ambience of the club will entice you to stay late on into the night… Capri, whatever Hervé Villard may say, is far from over.
Getting there
Best time to visit:
Spring and Autumn
Direct flights departing from:
Nice, Paris, Brussels
Approximate flight duration: 1h30
Recommended length of stay:
3 nights / 4 days
