Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Herculaneum

Reaching for the Sky at Vesuvius

Today, Hans-Peter and I embarked on a journey that took us from the depths of ancient history to the heights of natural wonder. Our adventure to Mount Vesuvius was nothing short of breathtaking, both literally and figuratively. It was a day filled with stunning vistas, a touch of physical exertion, and the rich flavors of Campania.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante Le Nuvole. The restaurant was conveniently located at Villa Signorini Events & Hotel, where we are staying. The reviews I had read beforehand were accurate. It was a great place to start the day. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the breakfast provided the perfect fuel for our upcoming hike. I enjoyed a simple yet satisfying meal of fresh fruit, yogurt, and a strong Italian coffee, while Hans-Peter opted for a more substantial breakfast with eggs and local cheese. It reminded me a bit of breakfasts back home in Latvia, simple and hearty.


Discover a charming blend of relaxation and adventure at Villa Signorini Events & Hotel in Ercolano, perfect for travelers and tourists alike.

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set off towards Vesuvius. The drive to Vesuvius National Park was scenic, with glimpses of the Bay of Naples sparkling in the distance. As we approached the volcano, its imposing presence grew larger and larger, dominating the landscape. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for this natural giant, knowing its history and power.


Discover Vesuvius National Park, a stunning blend of nature and history near Naples, featuring hiking trails and breathtaking views of the iconic volcano.

Upon arriving at the park entrance, we purchased our tickets and began our ascent. The trail up to the crater is well-maintained but still requires a reasonable level of fitness. The path is a mix of gravel and volcanic rock, and the incline can be quite steep in places. I was glad I had worn my comfortable walking shoes, though I did regret not bringing a sun hat. The sun was already beating down, and I could feel my fair Latvian skin starting to burn. Hans-Peter, ever the prepared one, had remembered his hat and offered me some sunscreen.

As we climbed higher, the views became increasingly spectacular. The Bay of Naples stretched out before us, a panorama of blue sea and sky dotted with islands. We could see the coastline winding its way towards Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Looking inland, we could make out the sprawling city of Naples and the surrounding countryside.

The climb was a reminder that some of the greatest rewards in life come from pushing ourselves beyond our comfort zones.

The hike itself was invigorating. Despite the heat, the air was fresh and clean, and the scent of pine trees filled our nostrils. Along the way, we passed other hikers of all ages and nationalities, all sharing the same goal: to reach the summit and witness the crater of Vesuvius.

We took our time, stopping frequently to catch our breath and take photographs. I was particularly fascinated by the volcanic rock formations, twisted and contorted into strange and wonderful shapes. I imagined the immense forces that had created them, the molten lava and explosive eruptions that had shaped this landscape over millennia.

Finally, after about an hour of hiking, we reached the top. The view into the crater was truly awe-inspiring. It was a vast, gaping hole in the earth, a testament to the raw power of nature. Steam and volcanic gases billowed from vents within the crater, a reminder that Vesuvius is still an active volcano. It was quite humbling to stand on the edge of this geological wonder, knowing that beneath our feet lay a force capable of reshaping the world.

We spent some time walking along the rim of the crater, taking in the panoramic views and listening to the commentary provided by a local guide. He shared stories of Vesuvius's past eruptions, including the infamous eruption of 79 AD that buried Pompeii and Herculaneum. It was a sobering reminder of the destructive power of nature, but also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

After descending from Vesuvius, we were both feeling rather peckish. We decided to have lunch at La Fornacella in Ercolano. This charming restaurant was recommended to us by several locals, and it did not disappoint. I was keen to try their polpo alla luciana, a Neapolitan delicacy, and it was absolutely delicious. Hans-Peter enjoyed a simple but flavorful pizza, cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven. The service was warm and friendly, and we felt like we were dining with family. It was a perfect way to refuel after our hike.


Experience the heart of Italian cuisine at La Fornacella in Ercolano - where every bite tells a story.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at the Roof Garden Lounge Bar. The bar is known for its panoramic views of the Bay of Naples, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. We sipped on Aperol spritzes as we watched the sun set over the sea, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience the enchanting ambiance of Roof Garden Lounge Bar in Ercolano, where exquisite coffee meets captivating live music in a stunning rooftop setting.

For dinner, we chose Taratatà, a local restaurant known for its pizza. It was a delightful, casual experience. The pizza was simple and delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. It was a great way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Italian pizza at Taratatà in Ercolano—where tradition meets flavor in every slice.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from the comfort of our hotel room, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had today. We climbed a volcano, explored a national park, enjoyed delicious food, and witnessed a breathtaking sunset. It was a day that will stay with me for a long time.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Pompeii and Villa dei Misteri. I'm particularly excited to see the Villa dei Misteri, as I've read so much about its well-preserved frescoes. Hans-Peter is eager to wander through the streets of Pompeii, imagining what life was like in this ancient city before the eruption of Vesuvius. I think we'll also try to fit in a visit to Mercato di Resina, a local market, to experience the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure.

For now, though, it's time for bed. Goodnight from Herculaneum!