Vesuvius: an adventure just a stone's throw from Naples

Vesuvius National Park: unique landscapes for trekking lovers

If you are on vacation in Naples and you are fond of trekking and hiking in the (in this case really unique) nature, you should definitely book a visit to Vesuvius! This incredible volcano is in fact located 10 kilometers east of Naples in an area of very high population density, the town of Herculaneum.

The importance of Vesuvius is both historical and naturalistic. We are talking about a volcanic formation that dates back to about two million years ago and finds its origin in Mount Somma: in fact, the current conformation of Vesuvius originated from the fusion with this older volcano.

It is certainly is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world because of the terrible eruption in 79 AD that destroyed the cities of Herculaneum, Pompeii, Oplontis and Stabia.

Vesuvius is a volcano of an explosive nature, whose last eruption was in 1944. It is still active today, making it one of the most studied volcanoes on the globe.

The crater of Vesuvius is one of the world's most fascinating natural wonders. With a diameter of about 700 meters and a depth that can exceed 300 meters, the Great Cone is a living testament to the power of the volcano. Although Vesuvius is known for its catastrophic eruptions, the crater today is home to an unexpected ecosystem in which flora and fauna are perfectly adapted to an extremely unique environment. Among the lava rocks are plants such as maritime pine, holm oak and arbutus, which have found ways to thrive in nutrient-poor soil. In addition, it is not uncommon to spot rare flowers such as the wild orchid and cyclamen among the vegetation, which grace the paths during spring. 

Vesuvius National Park, established in 1995, is definitely worth a visit. The area has been classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and in fact holds unique animal and plant species combined with incredible views that will captivate lucky visitors. Some numbers? A thousand different species of plants and nearly 50 species of diurnal butterflies!

Trivia about Vesuvius: a volcano of myths and discoveries

In addition to its famous eruption in 79 A.D., which marked history with the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum, Vesuvius has been the focus of numerous scientific discoveries. In fact, the volcano is one of the first to be studied systematically, with the first volcanological observatory in Italy built right at its foot. Over the centuries, Vesuvius has inspired myths and legends, becoming the protagonist of tales extolling its destructive power and mysterious appeal. The very name “Vesuvius” may derive from an ancient Greek word meaning “sparking,” in reference to its frequent eruptive episodes. Biologically, the park surrounding the volcano is also home to a diverse fauna, including nocturnal raptors and several species of butterflies, but it is most famous for its vineyards, which produce the renowned Lacryma Christi wine. Vesuvius, then, is not only a symbol of nature's power, but also a center of biodiversity and millennia-old traditions.

FAQ about Vesuvius National Park 

1. How should one go about seeing Vesuvius?
The only way to access the Crater of Vesuvius is the aforementioned Gran Cono trail that allows you to take part in the unique experience of being in such close contact with an active volcano with such an incredible history. You need to book your ticket in good time on the official website of the Vesuvius National Park and check schedules and specifics for each month of the year on the time table also available on the same website.

2. What routes are available?
For those visiting Vesuvius National Park, there are as many as 11 trails to choose from, covering a route as long as 54 km. The trails are also divided by type: we can find circular, educational, scenic and aricultural ones. In recent years, the park authority has carried out interventions to prevent possible accidents due to lack of knowledge of the safest trails. Signage has been implemented, with specifications for individual trails, which can help visitors for a safe hike from any risk.

3. How long does it take to hike Mount Vesuvius?
In order to allow as many visitors as possible a visit to Mount Vesuvius that ensures safety for each of the participants, there is a regulation that establishes the maximum duration for the various types of excursions: two hours for shorter routes and three hours for longer ones. To get up to the Great Cone, one travels about four kilometers and is always in a group, accompanied by mountain and volcanological guides.

4. What is the recommended clothing?
In general, the advice is to dress comfortably. Trekking boots would be preferable, because the path to reach the Gran Cone is steep anyway. A hat to shield yourself from too much sun or a jacket to shelter from the wind are the accessories to complete a perfect outfit for the occasion. Carrying water and a light snack might not be a bad idea either!

5. What season of the year is it best to visit Vesuvius Park?The seasons to choose for a perfect visit to Vesuvius are autumn and spring, because both have an important feature that makes them preferable for long, even somewhat strenuous walks: temperatures that are not too extreme.
In fact, in summer you may feel a little too hot, while in winter it is not uncommon for visits not to take place due to weather warnings and consequent less than optimal ground conditions.

6. Where to take the shuttle to Vesuvius?

Shuttles to Vesuvius leave from the train stations in Pompeii and Herculaneum. You can purchase your shuttle ticket directly at these locations.

7. Where is the entrance for Vesuvius?

The main entrance to Vesuvius is at the beginning of the Gran Cono trail, easily accessible from the Herculaneum-Vesuvius provincial road.