Vesuvius National Park

Vesuvius National Park, located in the Campania region of southern Italy, surrounds the infamous Mount Vesuvius, an active volcano near the Bay of Naples. The park is situated about 12 kilometers east of Naples, with nearby towns including Ercolano, Pompeii, and Torre del Greco. Established on June 5, 1995, the park was created to protect the volcanic landscape, rich ecosystems, and cultural heritage surrounding one of the most famous volcanoes in history. Mount Vesuvius is most known for its eruption in 79 AD, which buried the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. The park has several parking areas, particularly near the main access points to Mount Vesuvius. The largest parking area is near the upper visitor center, close to the Gran Cono crater. Parking fees are typically required, with prices around €5-€10 depending on the location and season. Visitors are advised to check specific rules, as parking can be limited during peak tourist times. Vesuvius National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including species like the peregrine falcon, foxes, weasels, and dormice. Notable flora includes Mediterranean vegetation like the Aleppo pine, broom, and oak trees, as well as wildflowers that thrive in the volcanic soil, such as the Vesuvius violet, a species unique to the area. Key landmarks within the park include the Gran Cono, the volcano’s summit, and the Valley of Hell, a deep volcanic valley. Public transport is available via buses from Naples and nearby towns to the base of Vesuvius, with shuttle services that take visitors closer to the summit, providing easy access to the park. Photo Credit: S J Pinkney and Elliott Brown