Salita al Gran Cono del Vesuvio (da Quota 1000)
Ercolano (NA)
FamousHiking
The story
From Quota 1000 the trail climbs the ash up to the rim of the Gran Cono, where the smoking crater opens up and below stretches the whole gulf of Naples.
The story
The Great Cone of Vesuvius, at 1,277 metres, is the most iconic goal of the Vesuvius National Park: the crater of the volcano that in AD 79 buried Pompeii and Herculaneum and whose last eruption dates to 1944. From the rim of the crater, about 450 metres wide, small fumaroles still emerge: Vesuvius is at rest, but active and constantly monitored.
What to see
The climb to the crater, along the path that starts from Quota 1000, leads you to walk on the rim of one of the most famous volcanoes in the world, with your gaze into the crater and, all around, an immense panorama over the Gulf of Naples, the Sorrento peninsula and the islands.
Hours and prices
Free entry.
Tips
The climb to the crater is a path on ground of sand and lapilli, on a slope: wear trekking shoes, water, a hat and a windbreaker, because at the top it is windy and cooler. Access to the crater is by ticket and by booking, and can be closed in bad weather or on alert: always check the Park's official site before going up.
Frequently asked questions
How do you climb up to the crater of Vesuvius?
By the path that starts from Quota 1000, in the municipality of Herculaneum: access to the crater is by ticket and by booking, and can close for bad weather. Check the Park's official site.
Is Vesuvius still active?
The Great Cone reaches 1,277 metres and the crater is about 450 metres wide. Vesuvius has been at rest since the 1944 eruption, but it is an active volcano, constantly monitored, with small fumaroles.
Is the climb up Vesuvius difficult?
It is an excursion on ground of sand and lapilli, on a slope and exposed: trekking shoes, water and a windbreaker are needed; at the top it is cooler and windy.
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