Imperial Luxury: Why You Should Stay At The Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux

(Image courtesy of The Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux)

At the dawn of the Roman Empire, Caesar Augustus (Octavian) immortalized Greco-Roman culture. Augustus ushered the first globalized empire as the Roman Empire spanned from the shores of Portugal to the banks of the Euphrates river. He began the tradition of imperial vacationing to Capri as a respite from court intrigues. The Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux epitomizes imperial grandeur and luxury on Capri. I had the chance to speak with Anna M., Sales & Marketing Manager, to learn more about why you should visit the property.

(Image courtesy of The Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux)

1. Why should someone visit Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux?

If you’re looking for luxury with a view, you simply have to stay at Caesar Augustus! Dating back to the early 1800s and once the private residence of royals and socialites, this boutique 5-star gem is steeped in history and oozing with irresistible Italian charm. Caesar Augustus is perched on the cliffs in Anacapri, the quietest part of the island and so, even at the height of the summer season, it’s the perfect choice for a peaceful (and incredibly panoramic!) romantic escape.

(Image courtesy of The Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux)

2. How did the property evolve in the face of the pandemic?

For the very short 2020 season, in order to guarantee social distancing and safety, we reduced the number of rooms available to clients from 56 to 20 rooms. For the 2021 season, all staff members were vaccinated before the doors of the hotel reopened. We have extensive grounds and so we were able to increase the number of private dining areas and special places for secluded sunbathing etc. Throughout the pandemic, our concierge provided additional assistance to our international clients, including offering discreet in-house service to all those needing to have a test performed before flying.

(Image courtesy of The Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux)

3. What are some sites that everyone should visit in Capri, and how does the hotel add to a traveler's experience?

In addition to visiting the famous Piazzetta, the Faraglioni sea stacks, Monte Solaro (by chair lift), and the Blue Grotto, we always recommend guests take a half or full-day private boat excursion to explore the island’s beautiful coastline and the nearby Amalfi Coast. Those who enjoy trekking will love the scenic coastal walks. Shopaholics will be spoilt for choice: the island’s little lanes are lined with both stores selling the latest designer fashions and artisan boutiques in which to find a unique souvenir. The hotel’s “Sandal Experience” includes a trip to the local sandal maker where clients have a pair of the famous Capri sandals made to measure for them while they wait.

(Image courtesy of The Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux)

4. What makes Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux different from other hotels?

There’s no doubt about it: no hotel on the island has a view anywhere near as breathtaking as that which can be seen from Caesar Augustus. Caesar Augustus is the only Relais & Chateaux on the island and the only 5-star property which is still family-owned and managed. Caesar Augustus has the most extensive (and quietest) grounds of all the properties on Capri. Brimming with Mediterranean plants and flowers, the cliff-top terraces are home to the largest kitchen garden on the island too. Our garden happens to be the largest kitchen garden on the island too. Consequently, all of the fresh produce used to make our delicious Southern Italian cuisine is grown on-site.

(Image courtesy of The Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux)

5. What is the future of the property?

The hotel’s owners, the Signorini family, aim to conserve the old-world charm of their home, thus ensuring that today’s guests and future generations of travelers will be able to enjoy its immense and unique beauty.

(Image courtesy of The Caesar Augustus Relais & Chateaux. Image depicts Paolo and Francesco Signorini)