MARINE DREAM

Explore the dream island of Capri and soak up its magical atmosphere on a full-day shore excursion from Sorrento.

Ravishing landscapes, crystal-clear waters, glorious sunshine and tempting cuisine have long attracted writers, artists, philosophers and rulers to this Mediterranean haven. For over 2,000 years Capri has mesmerized travellers with its extraordinary allure. Indeed the island’s first tourists were the ancient Romans, drawn to its shores in search of beauty and tranquillity. Roman aristocrats and emperors would reach Sorrento on horseback or by carriage, then sail nine miles to Capri to escape the summer heat and relax away from the pressing demands and duties of the Caput Mundi. After the collapse of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD, Capri was gradually abandoned and repeatedly sacked by the Arabs and corsairs throughout the Middle Ages. It was only in the mid-1700s that the island began to regain its well-deserved fame due to the renewed interest in the region of Campania aroused by the fascinating findings unearthed in Pompeii and Herculaneum. In 1826 the rediscovery of a natural wonder, the Blue Grotto, enhanced the island’s appeal leading Capri to become one of the most sought after destinations for generations of Grand Tour travellers in the 19th century. Capri’s popularity as a peaceful Mediterranean retreat and glamorous meeting spot is still unrivalled today. Discover why on this treasure island spree.

You will meet your private guide at the harbour and enjoy a ferry ride to Capri. Upon arrival reach the island’s upper village, Anacapri, and visit the former residence of Swedish physician and author Axel Munthe. Located on a towering plateau about 320 metres above sea level, Villa San Michele embodies the dreams of its visionary creator: “My house shall be open to the sun, to the wind, and the voice of the sea, just like a Greek temple, and light, light, light everywhere!” The rooms of this 19th century hideout are filled with Dr Munthe’s original furnishings and precious collection of antiquities, including marble and bronze sculptures, fragments of sarcophagi, columns, capitals and bas-reliefs. Brightly coloured azaleas, roses and hydrangeas bloom in the lovingly tended gardens, punctuated by stone seats that once must have provided prominent guests with a welcome place to rest. As you amble under the wisteria pergola and pause on the outdoor terrace, imagine the Swedish Queen Victoria – Munthe’s special friend – revelling in the views of the dramatic cliffs cascading down into the jewel-toned waters below.

But it gets even better… enjoy an exhilarating chairlift ride up to the summit of Mount Solaro, soaring 589 meters above the sea, and feast your eyes on the spellbinding panorama stretching all the way to the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

After some free time for lunch, depending on queues, sea and weather conditions, you might want to take a peek inside the Blue Grotto, the island’s best-known natural attraction, named after the blue light that reverberates inside this splendid sea cave. Sunlight filters through an underwater cavity creating a dazzling azure glow that must have enchanted early Roman visitors just as it still does today. In ancient times this was one of Emperor Tiberius’ favourite haunts. He chose the Blue Grotto as his private swimming pool and turned it into a marine temple, embellishing the cave with several statues of sea gods. For centuries the grotto was thought to be inhabited by evil spirits and all in the area steered well clear of it whereas now it is a marvel in which everyone delights – high tides permitting. Jump aboard a small rowing boat, duck your head, glide through the low cave opening and you will find yourself in another world.

Next, reach the tiny world-famous Piazzetta, overlooked by the clock tower and surrounded by busy cafes. The town centre’s streets are alive with voguish boutiques selling fine quality crafts – from pottery to sandals, from perfumes to jewelry – which you will have the opportunity to browse before returning to the harbour of Marina Grande.

Catch the return ferry to Sorrento and climb back on board your cruise ship after a day packed with such unbelievably fantastic sights you might find yourself wondering if it really happened.