Our morning and afternoon was spent witnessing the fascinating ruins of Pompeii, once a green and happy Italian city. And then it was time to settle down for a quick lunch. While we waited, there right in front of us was Mount Vesuvius, the reason for the destruction. Moreover this deadliest volcanic mountain in Europe is still active and can explode again anytime, without warning. Come along for a hike to Mount Vesuvius with us after our short lunch break.
Mount Vesuvius explosion
On that fateful afternoon of August 24, A.D 79, the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum were rocked by a massive volcanic eruption. Mount Vesuvius, with around fifty minor eruptions before erupted again after being dormant for long. The explosion sent pumice stones, volcanic ash, super heated rocks and poisonous gas almost ten miles high in the air. And the strong breeze that flowed towards Pompeii thereafter buried the city under millions of tonnes of debris. As a result an estimated 16000 residents staying in and around Pompeii were killed in one of the worst natural calamities.
What was Pompeii like on that day?
It was celebration time in Pompeii. The city was in high spirits with two major events. First in honor of emperor Augustus, the first emperor of the Roman empire who had just been declared as God. And the second was Vulcanalia, the festival of the God Vulcan also known as the God of fire & volcanoes. The streets of Pompeii were filled with musicians, performers, fortune tellers and athletes many of whom had come from outside Pompeii to participate. And also visitors and tourists who came to see them. It was precisely then that the mighty mountain struck.
How to reach Mount Vesuvius
The best way to reach Mount Vesuvius National Park is by availing one of the buses that leave from Pompeii or Herculaneum. However you could also travel by your own car but then that would mean your hike would be a little longer, as cars are allowed to park only in the lower parking lot. And an upward hike of an hour instead of the normal 30 mins that it otherwise takes from the upper parking lot. The hike though is not too difficult if you are reasonably fit.
We though had availed of a conducted day tour of Pompeii with guide and Mount Vesuvius with both entry tickets included in the price. Moreover you too could do that and there are many options available. You could book your tour here on Viator.com or check out the options below on GetYourGuide and book the best available offer.
Hike to Mount Vesuvius
The journey starts
A Photo stop halfway
And the views around
The last leg
As we reach the top
Views of the Crater
Clicking memories
Some mementos, some beer
Then the journey down
Some last views
Amazing Amalfi Coast
Enjoy these lovely views as we travel back to Sorrento, the charming lemon town.
A tryst with Mount Vesuvius. An amazing experience.
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