There are those who consider “dolce far niente” overrated. After spending 15 years in a stressful environment, finishing an MBA and working full-time, La Bonne Vivante decided to actively indulge in complete and complete passiveness. Sounds like a contradiction? Not at all, it is an art to elegantly show off your sunbed at a fashionable beach club, sip an “tuffo” in the dark blue, clear water and contemplate difficult decisions for example, whether lunch will be a seafood or linguine all’astice. As a normally active traveler this week was all about delightful leisure and I thoroughly enjoyed each and every minute of it. Let’s begin our journey at the point where it began, stunning Positano.
Positano
What do you do?
Positano is alive and breathing with amazing views. Explore the charming town, have an aperitif at the Sirenuse one of Positano’s most luxurious hotel, and then pick a restaurant for dinner. It’s a difficult choice as most restaurants offer amazing seafood and pasta, as well as breathtaking views. There is also some last minute beach outfit shopping to be made here. You’ll find some cute little stores selling cotton clothes, hats and sandals.
Where to Eat:
There are numerous great restaurants in Positano. Our last meal was at Next2which provides a classy atmosphere, delicious fish, friendly service and delicious truffle pasta. the only non-fishy option for my seafood detesting travel companion.
Where to stay:
That is the second time La Bonne Vivante stayed at Hotel Miramare. Its rooms have a decisively local appeal , with stone floors and Italian decor. The balcony provides a magnificent panorama and, since this hotel isn’t very high up it is only 5 minutes away from the beach and ferries.
Capri
From here, you can head for Capri one of the most beautiful of the islands that lie in the Napoletanian sea. The ferry ride takes about 1 hour and gives scenic views. Upon arrival you will be welcomed by Capri’s magnificent beauty that has inspired many films and is the ultimate jet-set favourite. During the day the island may feel a bit crowded because of the numerous day trippers who land here by ferry from Sorrento, Positano and Ischia however, it all depends on the location you travel to and there are many places that offer an intimate experience even in high season.
What to do:
See the world from the sea There is no way that a Capri vacation is complete without a boat ride. A half-day trip costs around 250 euros. A boat tour gives you your with a glimpse of the island’s shape and will take visitors to the most popular grottos. One of them is of course the famous grotto of azurro. There is an interval of 20 minutes before you can switch to one the small wooden boats which will transport you to the Grotto Azurro. Mind the entrance which is very small and your boatman will request you to rest your head on the floor so that you don’t spill your head. Within the grotto you can experience the blue hues that have made this grotto well-known. It is not permitted to swim here, but take a swim at the Grotto Verde that has stunning green water. Your captain should drop you off at one of the beach clubs for lunch , and then take the rest of the day there.
Relax in the sun: Enjoy a day in the Beach Club. Fontelina is the most well-known beach club in Capri however if you aren’t able to get a sun bed there Da Luigi is only a few meters from Fontelina. In my view it offers spectacular views right in front of the famous Faroglini roks, the atmosphere is more relaxing and a fantastic restaurant.
Where to eat:
The name implies that Panorama Restaurant Panorama is an incredible view of Capri and the traditional Italian food.
La Terrazza Brunella is a great restaurant that serves delicious food, and a traditional and ultra-romantic dining area, that is decorated with roses and candles. The food is excellent (try the stuffed Zucchini) but the room can get a bit sticky in the summer and the loveky jazz music seemed a tad too loud when we were there.
da Paolino is somewhat off the beaten track. When you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with the dining garden that is full of lemon trees, which give shade. The restaurant is big, however its beautiful surroundings give it a romantic , intimate ambience. The food is nothing to write home about but adequate enough and of course the Limoncello is fantastic.
Ischia:
After three days, we depart the stunning island of Ischia the Capri’s less rustic cousin. With just a one-hour ferry ride away, Ischia couldn’t be more different. It responds to Capri’s glamour, international jet set high prices by being proudly Italian genuine and affordable.
What should you do:
A huge island, it’s recommended to hire a car to take a tour around the island. Also, make sure to check out its spas, beaches and thermal pools. In the evening, head to Ischia town to walk around the streets bustling with people and enjoy an aperitif.
The best way to see Sant Angelo by boat from Barano which will only cost 3 euros ferry per person or go there by car. The charming little town has exquisite restaurants, romantic restaurants, and chic shops.
Where to consume:
Despite its rustic charm, Ischia houses two 1 star and two star Michelin restaurants.
Our favourite restaurant by far and one that you must definitely visit to is Il Monastero which is situated at the top of Castello Aragone, one of Ischia’s most popular sights and provides breathtaking views, amazing food that can compete with Michelin star restaurants, as well as very affordable prices and extra attentive staff. Before dining there, visit the tower which is stunning. Bring enough time as it will take at one hour to go up the tower and take in the stunning views of Procida, Naples and the Vesuvio.
Where to stay:
Hotels in Ischia are generally more rustic than Capri and Positano. If you prefer a more extravagant option, then head to The L’albergo situated in Lacco Ameno or to Terme Manzi.
