Mount Vesuvius is, perhaps, the most famous volcano in the world. Located in the southern Italian region of Campania, this volcanic cone shaped mountain is still active and has erupted many times over the last few centuries. Don't be afraid, however, as it hasn't erupted since 1944 and the fertile lands that surround are populated by over three million people! While it is still active and considered a relatively dangerous volcano, it is not at all unsafe to visit and we would highly recommend it! Just find a villa in Campania and pay a visit.
Vesuvius is most famous as the volcano that erupted in Roman times, around 79 AD, and buried and preserved the town of Pompeii. While this incident was a horrific tragedy, it has also turned out to be an invaluable resource and font of knowledge for future generations. The archaeological site proved to be a font of information on Ancient Rome and daily life, in particular, at the time. It also became one of Italy's most famous and popular attractions. The village, frozen in time as it is, also ensured the enduring fame of the volcano that created it and, as a result, Vesuvius became another of the country's most famous and visited sites.
Just 6 miles from the modern city of Naples, there are lots of different tours available to bring visitors on walks up to Vesuvius but you can also just trek it yourself. If you are going by yourself, we suggest parking in the carpark and taking trail number five to the cone of the crater. There are also several public transport options, if you aren't driving. Once you arrive, you just need to pay for entry at the ticket barrier and then make the 15-20 minute journey up the mountain.
The climb isn't overly challenging but you would need to be in reasonable condition and do come prepared: it is colder high up and rain gear, sun screen, a hat and water are also essentials for the trip. Once you've got the worst of the climb behind you and almost at the crater edge there is a hut, from which there are free scheduled ten minute tours by a volcanology guide. When you get up high, you'll find that you aren't met by bubbling lava but a moon-like landscape and sulphur gases and, best of all, an incredible view across the Bay of Naples.
For those visiting Campania, this famous volcano really is a must-see.
Just 6 miles from the modern city of Naples, there are lots of different tours available to bring visitors on walks up to Vesuvius but you can also just trek it yourself. If you are going by yourself, we suggest parking in the carpark and taking trail number five to the cone of the crater. There are also several public transport options, if you aren't driving. Once you arrive, you just need to pay for entry at the ticket barrier and then make the 15-20 minute journey up the mountain.
The climb isn't overly challenging but you would need to be in reasonable condition and do come prepared: it is colder high up and rain gear, sun screen, a hat and water are also essentials for the trip. Once you've got the worst of the climb behind you and almost at the crater edge there is a hut, from which there are free scheduled ten minute tours by a volcanology guide. When you get up high, you'll find that you aren't met by bubbling lava but a moon-like landscape and sulphur gases and, best of all, an incredible view across the Bay of Naples.
For those visiting Campania, this famous volcano really is a must-see.