Blue Grotto
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 15 January 2024
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The Blue Grotto is perhaps the most famous attraction on the island of Capri and needs little introduction. The natural reflection of the light creates an impossibly bright blue colour that has to be seen to be believed.
There are various ways of reaching the cave, the most common of which is by taking one of the tour boats from Marina Grande. |
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The boat tours that start from Marina Grande cover the whole island along with a stop at the Blue Grotto and are priced at around €10 per person. However, those (and other) boats will only take you so far. Once you reach the mouth of the cave you need to transfer to a smaller, wooden rowboat.
With the mouth of the cave just one metre high it's only these smaller boats along with their expert seamen that can enter the cave. Once in the smaller boat you'll be asked to lie back so as to avoid bumping your head as you enter. Once inside the cave you'll see the incredible phenomenon while the boatmen charm you with their typical Neapolitan folk songs.
It's also possible to reach the cave mouth by land. You can take the "Grotta Azzurra" bus from Anacapri and then follow the steps down to the edge of the sea. Waiting there in the queue you'll eventually be collected by one of the wooden row boats who'll take you into the cave, passing the floating ticket office along the way.
With the mouth of the cave just one metre high it's only these smaller boats along with their expert seamen that can enter the cave. Once in the smaller boat you'll be asked to lie back so as to avoid bumping your head as you enter. Once inside the cave you'll see the incredible phenomenon while the boatmen charm you with their typical Neapolitan folk songs.
It's also possible to reach the cave mouth by land. You can take the "Grotta Azzurra" bus from Anacapri and then follow the steps down to the edge of the sea. Waiting there in the queue you'll eventually be collected by one of the wooden row boats who'll take you into the cave, passing the floating ticket office along the way.
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The Blue Grotto, or Grotta Azzurra, is one of the most famous natural landmarks on the island of Capri in Italy. It is renowned for its mesmerizing electric blue water, which is caused by the sunlight entering the cave through an underwater cavity. The Blue Grotto is a must-visit attraction for tourists, offering a unique and magical experience.
The Grotto is a sea cave located on the northwestern coast of Capri, accessible only by boat. The entrance to the cave is small, measuring just one meter high and two meters wide, making it necessary for visitors to lie down in the boat to pass through.
Once inside the cave, visitors are treated to a breathtaking sight of the electric blue water, which glows due to the sunlight filtering through the underwater cavity and illuminating the interior of the cave. The blue light reflects off the cave's white limestone walls, creating an ethereal and almost otherworldly atmosphere.
The Grotto is a sea cave located on the northwestern coast of Capri, accessible only by boat. The entrance to the cave is small, measuring just one meter high and two meters wide, making it necessary for visitors to lie down in the boat to pass through.
Once inside the cave, visitors are treated to a breathtaking sight of the electric blue water, which glows due to the sunlight filtering through the underwater cavity and illuminating the interior of the cave. The blue light reflects off the cave's white limestone walls, creating an ethereal and almost otherworldly atmosphere.
History
The Blue Grotto has a long history of fascination and admiration. It is believed that the cave was known and used by the ancient Romans, and it was mentioned in ancient texts and poetry. However, it gained widespread popularity during the 19th century when it became a favorite destination for artists, writers, and intellectuals on the Grand Tour.
Key features
- Boat Tours: To enter the Blue Grotto, visitors must transfer from larger boats to smaller rowboats due to the narrow entrance. The rowboats are operated by local expert rowers who skillfully guide visitors into the cave. Boat tours can be arranged at the main marinas of Capri, Marina Grande, and Marina Piccola.
- Entrance Fee: There is an entrance fee to visit the Blue Grotto, and it is advisable to bring cash for the fee and any tips for the rowers.
- Ideal Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Blue Grotto is during late morning to early afternoon when the sunlight is at its brightest and creates the most vivid blue reflection in the water.
- Weather-Dependent: The Blue Grotto is subject to weather conditions, and rough seas or high tides can make it unsafe or impossible to enter. It is essential to check the weather forecast and inquire about the cave's accessibility before planning a visit.
- No Swimming: Swimming inside the Blue Grotto is not allowed due to its small size and restricted access.
La Grotta Azzurra di Capri
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Island: Capri
Province: Metropolitan City of Naples Region: Campania Close by: Faraglioni, Mount Solaro Recommended accommodation: Hotel Quisisana |
