Having traveled several places, seeing a volcanic site is a whole different experience. Trekking is akin to getting out of my comfort zone, which is the key to unfastening my full potential. I toured the most dangerous volcano to witness some amazing spectacular views!
Mount Vesuvius is amongst the only volcanoes in Continental Europe that stand about 1281 meters tall, with a symmetrical central cone and steep slopes. The whole of Mount Vesuvius National Park is both beautiful and productive. It is speckled with small farms and wineries planted with heirloom varieties boasting a unique terroir. Visiting the crater is a must, and visitors from across the globe climb the path every year to peer into its depths.
Since When Have People Started Trekking Mount Vesuvius?
Since the 1600s, inquisitive people have been climbing Mount Vesuvius because the crater was considered one of the more “exotic” stops on the Grand Tour. It attracts tourists from northern Europe who have never seen a volcano.
From the 18th century to today, hiking up Mount Vesuvius has been one of the most popular activities in the area. The Volcanological Observatory, founded in 1841, and the official Mountain Guide Association, founded in 1855, have excellent guides able to escort tourists up the final stretch of the mountain trail.
Still today, the most popular route among visitors is the trail up to the highest reaches of the cone to the rim of the crater. This is a stretch that is not very difficult and can be undertaken by anyone. It does not require a hiking experience.
The trail is about 4 km up and back, with a change in altitude of about 140 meters and an average slope of 14%. The trail reaches 1,170 meters above sea level.
Visiting the Mount Vesuvius
Are you thinking of visiting Mount Vesuvius? Here’s some reliable information that could help you while planning a visit.
If you are fond of scenery and the outdoors, Mount Vesuvius should be on your travel list! The picturesque view from the tips of the crater to the Bay of Naples, Capri and the peninsula of Sorrento are extraordinary. During my visit, it was a clear day and it is very difficult to explain whether staring at the infinity inside the crater was more beautiful.
The last eruption of Vesuvius took place in 1944. The volcano is technically active, but there are secure warnings before an eruption. An earthquake is the biggest provoking factor for any volcanic event.
How Long It Took To Climb Mount Vesuvius?
It took me three hours to climb Mount Vesuvius. However, it also depends on the way you see every ounce of it. The choice of transportation also affects it.
The driving part from the town of Torre del Greco to the beginning of the trail takes about 45 minutes one way. The hiking part can be done in 90 minutes. Start doing some exercises and walking before hiking Mount Vesuvius so that you do not face health problems during the trek.
This includes walking up and down and wandering at the top to admire the outstanding views of the Bay of Naples and the main crater “Gran Cono”.
Ticket Office Opening Time:
The ticket is available from March to October from 9 am to 6 pm. During April, May, June and September, it is available from 9 am to 5 pm.
If you wish to visit from July and August, the tickets are available from 9 am to 6 pm. From November to February from 9 am to 3 pm
Keep in mind that you should purchase tickets at least 1.5 hours before closing time. ATMs are not present there. Therefore, do not forget to keep some cash handy.
Top Things to See Near Mt. Vesuvius
If you go to Mt. Vesuvius, chances are you will want to climb the volcano. There are many other sites in this area that were affected directly or indirectly by the volcano itself. Below are some sites to visit when you are in the area.
The Crater
This is what I have been striving to arrive at. I had to walk for quite a long time, but the trails leading up are not that intensive. The quickest way up is to take trail number 5 “il gran cono”. This trail begins at 1,000 meters which implies that I had another 130 meters to head up to the top.
My whole trek definitely shows that there is something powerful about climbing up a volcano. When I reached Pompeii, at that point, I was awestruck to see the destruction and havoc that nature can produce.
Pompeii
Considered to be the most well-known city in the world that was destroyed, if you have included this in your bucket list, I would suggest you reconsider your program. By touring Pompeii, you will see actually a whole city that was uncovered.
Pompeii was a flourishing port city in the Ancient Roman Empire. Its destiny changed on August 24th, 79 AD. At that time, the volcano Mt. Vesuvius exploded and gushed out a 10-mile high mushroom cloud of ash and pumice into the stratosphere, officiating everyone. The toxic gases suffocated everyone.
If you are planning to give it a visit, definitely check out our small group tours of Pompeii from Rome, Amalfi Coast and directly from Pompeii.
Is It a Hard Walk through Mount Vesuvius?
Reaching the top is the main part of the trek. It is only possible by hiking. Walking to Mount Vesuvius has moderate difficulty as it is uneven and steep.
You can bring a small mat to sit on as there are no benches to sit on. There isn’t any shade as well.
What to Bring For Trekking?
The size of the cone of Mt Vesuvius is over 4000 feet. Wear comfortable walking shoes, a bottle of water, a wind jacket, sunglasses, and a hat. You can wear sandals as well but I choose to wear shoes as it is the most comfortable footwear during any trek.
Remember that your feet will be dirty with ashes. The path has a lot of little pebbles that will end under your feet. If you are wearing sandals, your feet will get dirty.
My whole journey could be summed up in a quote by Dr Seuss, “Oh the places you’ll go”.
