Capri Chairlift: Monte Solaro Tour Review – Is It Worth It?

Capri, with its stunning landscapes and captivating beauty, offers more than just glamorous shopping and picturesque views from the Piazzetta. Very often, visitors are looking for ways to see the whole island in all its glory, very many consider heading up to Monte Solaro. So, if you’re thinking about experiencing Capri from its highest point, then the Monte Solaro chairlift might be just the ticket. It’s a ride offering unforgettable views, still, is it something you really should spend your time and money on? I mean, we’re going to explore that very thing here. So, get comfortable, and we’ll go through exactly what makes this experience great (and a few things you might want to think about first). It is a high point of any trip.

What to Expect on the Way Up

Alright, the chairlift to Monte Solaro isn’t your average ski lift. Instead of whizzing up a snowy slope, you are slowly lifted above vineyards, gardens, and the rustic buildings of Anacapri. That climb lasts about 12 minutes, is that correct? This, therefore, gives you the time to take it all in. Maybe it even means taking loads of pictures! So, it could be worthwhile bringing a camera (or at least make sure your phone’s charged!).

It really does feel peaceful sitting there in your chair. Very peaceful, in fact, as you drift away from the noises of the town. It allows you to feel calm because all that surrounds you is greenery, with the odd glimpse of houses below. It really is pretty special to be a way above the crowds in Anacapri, if you like to see this thing too.

Reaching the Summit: What Awaits You

Reaching the top of Monte Solaro almost feels like stepping onto another planet. Or, well, maybe a more dramatic version of Capri anyway. You’re standing at the highest point on the island (589 meters!), and everything sprawls out below you. You can easily see the entire island, the Bay of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and very often, even the mountains further afield.

Up there, so too you’ll find a small café where you are able to buy refreshments. And what is more, there are some walking trails should you wish to explore a little bit. Just take the time to relax and soak in that quite dramatic vista.

Things to Consider Before You Ride

Alright, so the chairlift is great, yet there are a couple of things you may want to know before deciding if it’s right for you. Arguably, one thing is the height, of course. If you aren’t too keen on heights, very understandably the ride up could prove a little unsettling. So, it is not ideal.

So, there is also timing. The chairlift isn’t going to run in bad weather, really; very strong winds can shut it down, for example. So, make sure to check the forecast before you head over. If there’s bad weather predicted, the views from the top are not going to be the clearest, really. And finally, bear in mind that this trip does take a couple of hours out of your day; therefore, it’s arguably worth weighing up whether seeing Monte Solaro takes priority over exploring other spots.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

Here’s how you can possibly get the most out of the Monte Solaro trip, anyway. Therefore, aim to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon, that way the light is often better for photographs, still, more crucially, you can probably skip some of the crowds too. And what is more, bring water with you and sunscreen as it might be a bit exposed at the summit. Don’t forget sunglasses as well; you are going to need them!

The café at the top is arguably rather limited. And it is very limited, too. So, arguably, you may prefer to pack some snacks. Take the time when you get up there to really soak it all in; don’t just snap a picture and leave, anyway. Relax and enjoy the sheer loveliness of the views. Or simply gaze at the panorama before your very eyes.

Is the Monte Solaro Chairlift Worth It?

So, getting down to brass tacks, is that chairlift worth the time and cash? I mean, if you want absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of Capri and if you aren’t scared of heights, then that ride is completely and utterly worth it. Therefore, it offers you such a distinctive perspective of Capri. It gets you away from those throngs of other travelers too.

And what is more, there’s a real sense of peace to be found on the ascent and at the summit, just keep in mind what you learned in the previous points. However, very honestly, if you have a serious phobia regarding heights, then it could possibly be something you’re going to want to give a miss. Yet very often the sense of achievement could also provide some release. Then again, maybe not…