Capri - A Retreat Par Excellence

Capri is a limestone island in the Gulf of Naples. It belongs to the region of Campania and is about 5 kilometres away from the Italian mainland. The island has an area of 10.4 km² and is divided into two communities (Capri, Anacapri), which are both part of the province of Naples. The highest peak on the rocky island is Monte Solaro with a height of 589 metres. Other mountains are Monte Capello (514 m), Monte Tiberio (335 m) and Monte Tuoro (266 m). The climate on Capri is Mediterranean, which is why the winters are usually mild and the summers warm.

The landscape on Capri is partly dominated by terrace cultivation of vine, oil and fruit trees. The evergreen and Mediterranean vegetation mostly consists of rosemary, wild pistachio and holly oaks. Capri is a limestone island, which is rich in karst formation. The Blue Grotto is the best-known example. It is about 30 metres wide, 50 metres long and 15 metres deep and is characterised by its bright blue water, which is created by the reflection of light on the sea floor. Other worthwhile karst formations are the famous Faraglioni. These native volcanic rocks are the island's landmarks and protrude about 100 metres from the sea. Another natural sight is the Arco Naturale, a breathtaking rock arch at the island's east coast. Once a grotto, it gained its present-day form due to slow erosion in the course of time.

Capri was the place of relaxation and retreat for the Roman Emperor Tiberius from 27 to 37 BC. He spent his last days on the idyllic island, which is why Capri was the seat of the government of the Roman Empire for 11 years. It is said that the ruler had 12 villas on the island, of which the Villa Jovis ("villa of Jupiter") is the best-known example. It was exposed and plundered by the archaeologist Norbert Hadrawa in the 18th century. This is why only a few of the former treasures could be preserved, which are now exhibited in London (Capri Altar) and Naples (mosaic floor), for example. Other attractions are the Gardens of Augustus and the Via Krupp. They were both built by the industrialist Alfred Friedrich Krupp at the beginning of the 20th century. The latter is a serpentine path, which runs down the mountain in sharp bends and leads to the bathing spot Marina Piccola.

A visit to the Piazza Umberto (also known La Piazzetta) and the nearby alleys is a must for every visitor. Travellers reach it by taking a cable car from the harbour Marina Grande. You do not only find small shops and designer boutiques there but also a great number of restaurants and cafes, which are vibrant with activity at any time of the day. The prices are rather high but several restaurants have terraces which offer an unforgettable view. The cuisine on Capri matches that of Campania. Besides a great variety of fish and seafood, many dishes contain garlic, tomatoes, basil and olive oil. One famous dish is the insalata caprese ("Caprese salad"), which consists of tomatoes, mozzarella, oil and basil and is considered an Italian national dish because of its colours (green, white and red like the Italian flag).

Capri is a holiday paradise for water sports fans. Sailing, diving, swimming, surfing and fishing are only a few of the many activities which are possible in and on the waters around Capri. The most popular and frequently visited beach is Marina Piccola, which lies at the foot of Monte Solaro in the south of the island. Hikers, mountain bikers and trekkers also get their money's worth on Capri. Travellers who want to see the island from a different perspective should go on a guided boat tour around the island and visit the Blue Grotto. One operator who offers round trips and trips to the famous grotto is Motoscafisti.

Travellers who want to spend their holidays on Capri should note that driving by car or motorcycle is strictly forbidden at times. Between the spring and autumn months, only the locals are allowed to drive by car on the island. However, you do not have to walk everywhere because you can use small buses, taxis, cable cars and chairlifts. Although there is a great number of hotels and holiday apartments on the island, the demand is often higher than the supply in summer. Therefore, holidaymakers should book their accommodation in time. If you do not want to stay overnight or only want to go to Capri on a day trip, you can use the boat connections between the mainland and the island (e.g. Capri-Naples, which takes about 80 minutes).