Holiday with the jet set at Capri’s iconic Punta Tragara

Words: Charlotte Pasha

Even the most seasoned of sybarites can’t help but be captivated by Capri. Arguably the most exclusive spot on the exclusive Amalfi coast, the island is stupidly, laughably pretty. Accessible by boat from Naples, it’s charming playground for those seeking la dolce vita, with great views up top, beaches down below and designer shops, bougainvillaea-clad restaurants and perfect-for watching streets in between.

As for where to stay: Punta Tragara has housed the jet set for years. Within spitting distance of that famous glistening Tyrrhenian Sea, and those even more famous Faraglioni rocks, the hotel was originally designed as a private villa by the Swissborn, French architect Le Corbusier. A picturesque terracotta building set on a clifftop, one of its two pools has been immortalised in a Slim Aarons  hoto for two good reasons: the vibes and the views. Lying on an oversized sunbed, sipping a cocktail served by attentive staff, wearing the complimentary poolside flipflops and looking out to a sea dotted with superyachts, it’s hard not to feel fortunate.

That sea view looks just as good from Punta Tragara’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Monzù. The breakfast buffet has Neapolitan pastries filled with pistachio cream and lemon custard, yoghurts, cheeses, eggs, chocolate crèpes and lots more. At nighttime it’s a fine-dining experience where seafood leads the way – think truffle and lobster ravioli followed by limoncello soaked baba with smoked lemon ice cream.

Another excellent spot for dinner at the hotel is Mammà, where you can enjoy an aperitivo as you browse a menu that includes pizza, beautifully baked branzino and Stanley Tucci’s favourite pasta dish, penne Nerano.

View of Punta Tragara’s pool

That sea view looks just as good from Punta Tragara’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Monzù. The breakfast buffet has Neapolitan pastries filled with pistachio cream and lemon custard, yoghurts, cheeses, eggs, chocolate crèpes and lots more.

At nighttime it’s a fine-dining experience where seafood leads the way – think truffle and lobster ravioli followed by limoncello soaked baba with smoked lemon ice cream.

Another excellent spot for dinner at the hotel is Mammà, where you can enjoy an aperitivo as you browse a menu that includes pizza, beautifully baked branzino and Stanley Tucci’s favourite pasta dish, penne Nerano.

It would be remiss to talk about Capri without mentioning its shops. Head to Via Camerelle and the surrounding streets, where Chanel, Tod’s, Dolce & Gabbana and every designer brand under the sun jostle for space.

Back at Punta Tragara, a leisurely 10-minute stroll from town, the 44 rooms are all different. Ours is traditional and pared back, with muted shades and tiled floors. There’s a wellness centre if you want to relax after all that shopping.

As for activities, visit the Blue Grotto, the Augustus Gardens and hike to the lighthouse or Arco Naturale. Or simply stroll the idyllic streets and savour a gelato at Buonocore or kick back at the beach clubs (La Fontelina is an Instagram sensation). You won’t be disappointed; this is a magical place.

From €650 per room per night

Book Punta Tragara

hoteltragara.com

 

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