So while my mom and I were staying in Sorrento, we took a couple day trips around the coast. The first one we took was to the magical island of Capri.
From Sorrento, you can catch a ferry that takes you to the Island of Capri. It takes about 40 minutes and you have great views coming and going. Once you dock in Capri and disembark from the ferry it immediately feels like you’re in a movie – so glamorous! There are huge beautiful yachts, buildings built into the cliff sides, clear blue waters, lots of outdoor cafes, and more yachts. That glamorous feeling didn’t last for very long though.
We decided we wanted to walk up to the piazza to catch a lift that got you to the top of the island for some panoramic views. We didn’t know any better and we just started walking. And then kept walking and walking and walking. We were just following the road when we came upon a pedestrian walkway. So then we followed that for a long long time till we got tired and headed back down to the marina. What was great about us finding this walkway and taking it though was that it turns out we were walking a very important path. We had just happened upon the Scala Fenicia, built by the ancient Greeks between the 7th and 6th centuries B.C.! Lesson to be learned here: wherever you are, there is history.
Once we got back to the marina, we did catch the Funicular up to the piazza to enjoy the city center. The Funicular is a quick little ride up a sort of tracked gondola. When you get to the top you see the entire marina side of the island.
The city center has so much to see that you hardly know where to start, so we just walked. The narrow walkways take you by shops and restaurants, through alleys, then through tightly packed neighborhoods. We were fortunate enough to meet a local who gave us suggestions and directions and the recipe for his limoncello. Antonio was very friendly and generous. He steered us toward the Giardini di Augusto to see the blooming wisteria, ancient ruins, and of course, the sea.
We took a little time on the island for shopping and gelato. Mom got some custom fitted sandals. I got straccietella.
It was only a few weeks ago, but it seems like so long ago….so much has happened since then….our adventure has been so exciting. I am glad I have your post to help me relive the memories.
Ashley,
It’s your Monterey neighbor Donna. I am SO happy you and and your Mom have experienced Capri. It is an amazing place. Your pictures are so beautiful. I miss you here in Monterey yet can’t think of a better place for you to be traveling. Cheers to you and and your Mom!