One of Capri’s most visited attractions is the island’s highest peak, loved for its stunning views, abundant vegetation and heritage buildings.
See Capri and the neighboring islands of Ischia and Procida laid out beneath your feet from the top of Mount Solaro. At 1,932 feet (589 metres) above sea level, this is the highest point on Capri.
The easiest way to reach the summit is to pay for the 12-minute chairlift journey from Piazza Vittoria in the town of Anacapri. As you ascend you’ll pass over terraced vineyards, vegetable gardens, villas and abandoned shacks. Alternatively, you can walk up to the top. Just follow the signs pointing toward the summit. The trek is fairly strenuous and takes about 1 hour at a steady pace.
Once you are there, enjoy the spectacular panoramas from the numerous viewing terraces and bars.
While you are on the mountain explore its other attractions. Botany enthusiasts will love studying the hundreds of plant species that grow here including heather, orchids, juniper, myrtles and narcissus.
Discover some history at the remains of Fortino di Bruto, situated near the chairlift station. This military fort was built by the British in the early 19th century.
Take a small detour to Santa Maria a Cetrella, a small 15th-century mountainside hermitage and church. A path from the summit leads through a wooded area of pine and chestnut trees before emerging at the religious building. Visit the chapel, bell tower and the cells that used to accommodate Dominican and Franciscan friars. The church also contains a painting of the Virgin Mary. Sailors used to climb up to Santa Maria a Cetrella to ask the icon for protection before embarking on voyages.
After leaving the church take some time out in the small garden that overlooks the three immense Faraglioni rocks. Santa Maria a Cetrella is only open occasionally at the weekends. You can get details of times from the chairlift stations.
To get back to Anacapri ride the chairlift or follow the crowds who prefer a scenic walk down the mountain. Anacapri is one of the island’s two towns and is served by regular buses from Capri town and Marina Grande.
