Would like to visit Mt. Vesuvius. Has anyone taken the route to the crater? The walkway up looks doable, but what happens when you get to the crater. Thank you.
Posted by
WPB, FL & Firenze
3112 posts
It`s a steep climb to the crater. At the top, you can walk about half way around and enjoy views of the crater and the surrounding countryside. I found it an interesting experience.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
Depends on whether it's erupting or not. :-)
Posted by
Landmark, MB
45 posts
When you get to the first view of the crater's inside, you continue following the trail as it goes around on the west side of the crater. After about 15 minutes of this, you arrive at a small building (that I assumed housed the guides). Here, the trail was blocked off by a gate (and a big guard!)and the only way to get to the very top of the crater (on its south side) was to hire a guide and be escorted the way up. I believe there were opportunities to rent guides at some of the rest stations on the way up. From where it was gated off, the trail seemed level or mildly uphill but we could see hikers on the edge of the crater WAY above us. So if you want to go all the way to the top, be prepared for some cardio workout!! We were there this past April and the weather up top was sunny and warm! Very nice views of Naples. Have someone point out to you where Pompeii is and you'll be amazed at how far away it looks and will wonder what force of nature could have done that damage!