Much of Italy’s coastal economy is reliant upon the tourist trade. This means that tourists scuttle off a ferry, walk around bumping shoulders with English-speaking strangers, purchase a gelato or two, exchange some dollars for linen or ceramic trinkets, then get back on the boat and head to the next stop. While the Italian seashore is certainly something about which you won’t ever hear us complaining, there is often a much more authentic adventure to experience if one travels a bit further inland.
There are two towns on the island of Capri, the smaller and less famous of the two is known as Anacapri. Although Anacapri requires an additional ten minutes in a rollercoaster ride of a taxi, the treasure at the top is worth a bit of extra Dramamine.
Easily the most enchanting aspect of Anacapri is the Hotel Caesar Augustus, with its mountaintop views of Ischia, The Bay of Napoli, Mount Vesuvius and the Amalfi Coast. Originally a private residence, the estate was purchased by the Signorini family in 1940. The family oversaw the renovation of the property, and the Hotel Caesar Augustus was born. With its enormous cliff-side terrace, balconied guestrooms, breathtaking infinity pool, and massive kitchen garden that supplies produce to its award-winning restaurant, this family-owned establishment has an extensive resume and no shortage of photographic content for marketing campaigns.
However, what sets this Relais & Chateâux apart from the other luxury resorts on Capri are the intangibles — those extraordinary characteristics that aren’t so easily captured by the camera. Quiet and elegant, Hotel Caesar Augustus is home to the Signorinis; the lobby is their living room, and customers are their guests.
This home-away-from-home atmosphere serves as a respite from the bustling downtown of Capri. While much of the island is of the see-and-be-seen variety, this hotel is simply a place to relax, enjoy the company of one’s companions, and receive an unrivaled pampering. The most magical time of day is sunset, when the exceptionally charming duo of Paolo Signorini and his son, Francesco, host a cocktail hour on the terrace, during which a pianist taps out tunes to the backdrop of one of the most spectacular sunsets one could conceivably experience. The only way to make it more exquisite is with a bottle of Prosecco and a dozen oysters.
Oh, but…they have those, too.
photos: Hotel Caesar Augustus
