This morning we shall be climbing Mt Vesuvius. We have booked a specialist guide and volcanologist which means we shall be able to climb to the very top of the volcano and walk around the rim of the crater. The weather is perfect – clear blue skies and not too hot so the views should be magnificent.
The coach trip takes about an hour and 1/2. We drive up to the car park on the lower slopes and dig out covid vaccination and negative test paperwork together with a copy of our passports. All documentation is thoroughly checked and then we walk up the winding path to the viewing station. The path is wide and easy underfoot but there seems to be no end to it. We walk uphill for 40 minutes and I really wish I was fitter.
Eventually we reach the rest station where we can have a drink and take a loo break. From this point there are unguided paths around the crater. Some of the party opt for this as we are told the final ascent is not easy. Jane and I are determined to attempt the ascent but as the guide unclips the rope at the start we look at the first stage in horror. It is steep, narrow, very slippery with loose ash. We are told to make sure to put our feet in the footsteps of the person in front and to be sure of grip before each step. I ask if the whole ascent is like this and our guide assures me it is only the first 100 yards or so that is difficult and then it becomes easier. We trust him and cautiously follow his tracks.
He was true to his word and eventually we emerge onto more friendly terrain. The ascent is still steep but not as intimidating though a wrong step would still have you sliding down the mountainside.
As we near the top there are vents letting out steam. We are told to put our hands in one that has cooled and is just very warm. Amazing to put your hand inside a volcano!
We carry on up to the summit. Wow! What an absolutely amazing view
We walked the whole way around the crater rim. I am happy to say that the descent was much easier via a different and less steep route. We stop by the refreshment station for a well earned beer and eat our picnic lunch. The sun is hot but it is cool in the shade – we are after all at 4000 ft.
After lunch we drive down to Pompeii, which was buried in ash from the eruption in 79AD. We have a guide, which is essential. Without him you would not know what you were looking at. He was a wealth of knowledge.
My initial site of Pompeii takes my breath away. It is so much bigger than I had expected. I probably do not need to say much – the photos largely speak for themselves. Below is the Great Theatre and Casa di Octavius Quartio.
Photos below show way to the brothel, bed and very descriptive painting.
Old lead water pipe, well preserved mosaics, bakery and street scenes
Pompeii treasures and plaster casts of the victims.
Street sign, Temple of Apollo and final views
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