We arrived in Naples bright and early this morning. After a good breakfast we headed to the ferry for a ride over to the legendary Isle of Capri. An hour later we stepped off the ferry at Marina Grande. The vibrant beauty of the island hit us as a kaleidoscope of brightly painted houses clinging to cliffs looked like a painting out of an Italian story.
But Capri’s charm goes far deeper than its postcard-perfect beauty. This island boasts a rich history that stretches back over 10,000 years. Inhabited since the Paleolithic era, Capri was first a Greek colony, then a playground for Roman emperors like Augustus and Tiberius, who built lavish villas here. Evidence of their presence can still be found in the ruins scattered across the islands well as Mariah Carey’s home somewhere on the island. Most stars that hang out here arrive in luxurious yachts and don’t stay on the island. Another interesting fact is Jackie Onassis Kennedy developed her signature look here with the oversized sunglasses!
We began our Capri conquest with a boat tour around the island. The lovely turquoise water shimmered under the Mediterranean sun as our captain navigated us past dramatic rock formations. The iconic Faraglioni stacks, legendary for their mythical origins, rose majestically from the sea. We even slid through the open door on one of the rocks! We dipped into hidden coves, marveling at the emerald glow that danced within the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto). The island was just beautiful and what better way than to see it from a boat!
Back on land, a queue snaked its way up towards the funicular railway. After a patient wait of about an hour, a small price to pay for breathtaking views!, we boarded the funicular and ascended the mountainside with about a million other people. The world unfurled beneath us – a tapestry of turquoise waters, verdant hills, and sun-drenched villas.
Reaching the summit, the views were breathtaking. We found the local restaurant we had pre booked tucked away in a cobbled alley. A leisurely lunch here with 6 of our friends, where we savored the essence of Italy – perfect Cheese ravioli and a glass of crisp local wine.
Fortified by the delicious meal, we descended back to Capri town via the funicular. With a renewed sense of purpose, we embarked on a shopping mission. The narrow streets were a treasure trove of local finds. In a quaint boutique, we found a very pretty, hand painted Capri ornament. Finally, in a vibrant shop overflowing with summer dresses, we found the ideal piece, a flowy sundress that captured the essence of Capri. Not the legendary lemons that’s on every piece of garment here, but rather the beautiful ocean of teals and blues.
As the sun gripped us in the islands heat, it was time to bid farewell. The ferry ride back to Naples was a nice relaxing ride offering a chance to rewind and relive the day’s delightful experiences. Though short, our Capri adventure was a beautiful day of sights, sounds, flavors, and history – a taste of la dolce vita (the good life) that will forever linger in our memory.
Our next stop is Rome!
May God Bless you always!
Chuck and Lea Ann
WorldTravelReynolds 