Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Herculaneum

A Day Amongst Giants

Today, Erika and I embarked on an adventure that combined natural wonder with historical reflection. Our destination was Mount Vesuvius, the imposing volcano that has shaped the landscape and history of this region for millennia. The experience was both humbling and exhilarating, offering panoramic views and a palpable sense of the past.



Our day began, as it should, with a delightful breakfast at Villa Signorini Events & Hotel. The spread was generous, featuring local pastries and strong Italian coffee, setting us up perfectly for the day’s activities. After breakfast, we set off towards Vesuvius National Park. The drive itself was scenic, winding through charming Italian countryside, with glimpses of the Bay of Naples sparkling in the distance. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city bustle. We were fortunate to have a clear day, ideal for hiking and sightseeing. I made a mental note to buy sunscreen later, having forgotten it this morning. Erika reminded me that I'd also forgotten the portable phone charger, something we both rely on heavily when taking so many photographs.



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

Arriving at Mount Vesuvius, we parked at the base and began our ascent. The hike up to the crater is moderately challenging. The path is well-maintained but steep in sections, with loose gravel underfoot. I was glad I'd packed my comfortable walking shoes; Erika, ever practical, had done the same. As we climbed, the views became increasingly spectacular. The Bay of Naples stretched out before us, a vast expanse of blue dotted with islands. We could see the outline of Capri in the distance, and the city of Naples sprawling along the coast.


The Vesuvius National Park has several trails, but we chose the main path to the Gran Cono. It’s a 4 km round trip, estimated to take about two hours. Along the way, there were small stalls selling refreshments and souvenirs. I resisted the urge to buy a miniature volcano, but Erika picked up a couple of postcards. We paused frequently to catch our breath and take photos. I was particularly fascinated by the volcanic rocks, their rough texture and dark color telling a story of fire and destruction. I tried to imagine what it must have been like on that fateful day in 79 AD when Vesuvius erupted, burying Pompeii and Herculaneum under ash and lava.

The mountain's imposing presence served as a stark reminder of nature's power, a force that both destroys and creates, shaping civilizations and landscapes in its wake.

Reaching the crater's edge was an awe-inspiring moment. The sheer scale of the volcano is immense, and the views from the top are simply breathtaking. We could see steam rising from vents within the crater, a reminder that Vesuvius is still an active volcano. A guide provided a brief commentary on the volcano's history and geology, which was informative and added to the experience. It's amazing to think that this natural wonder has been both a source of devastation and a source of life for the people of this region for centuries. We spent some time walking along the rim, taking in the panoramic views and reflecting on the power of nature. While walking around the crater, we were only able to traverse half of it, as walking the entire rim is not permitted for safety reasons.


After descending Vesuvius, our appetites were well and truly awakened. We drove to Masseria Guida for lunch, a restaurant nestled in the countryside near the base of the volcano. The setting was idyllic, a charming farmhouse surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. We were seated on a terrace overlooking the gardens, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. Masseria Guida is known for its traditional Campanian cuisine, and we were eager to sample the local flavors. We started with an antipasto of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by homemade pasta with fresh tomatoes and basil. The ingredients were clearly fresh and locally sourced, and the flavors were vibrant and authentic. Erika particularly enjoyed the capesante, prepared alla carbonara with a Roman broccoli cream. I savored a glass of local wine, a crisp white that perfectly complemented the meal. The service was attentive and friendly, making our lunch a truly memorable experience.



Discover Masseria Guida: A perfect blend of dining excellence, cozy accommodations, and rejuvenating spa experiences in Ercolano.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy. We visited Donadio Corals and Cameos, a shop in Ercolano with a long and fascinating history. The Donadio family has been crafting beautiful coral and cameo jewelry since 1885, and their shop is a treasure trove of exquisite pieces. I am always impressed by the artistry and skill involved in creating these intricate designs. Erika was particularly drawn to a delicate cameo brooch, while I admired a set of coral cufflinks. We learned about the history of cameo and coral jewelry, tracing its roots back to ancient times. The tradition of carving gems was practiced by the ancient Egyptians, and later refined by the Greeks and Romans. Coral was believed to have protective properties, and was often given to children as a ward against bad luck. The shop assistant told us about the different types of coral and the techniques used to carve them, which was fascinating. While Erika considered purchasing the brooch, I decided to buy a small coral pendant for our daughter, Lena. It seemed like a fitting memento of our trip, a piece of Italian history and craftsmanship to bring back to Heidelberg.



Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of coral and cameo jewelry at Donadio Corals and Cameos, a unique gem in Portici, Italy.

For dinner, we chose Terrazza Due Golfi, a restaurant in Ercolano known for its panoramic views. As the name suggests, the restaurant overlooks two gulfs, offering stunning vistas of the coastline. We arrived just as the sun was beginning to set, and the view was truly spectacular. The restaurant itself was charming, with a relaxed and romantic atmosphere. We were seated on a terrace, and the gentle sea breeze added to the ambiance. The menu featured a range of Italian dishes, with an emphasis on seafood. We started with grilled octopus, followed by the pasta. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were delicate and well-balanced. Erika enjoyed a glass of local wine, while I opted for a refreshing beer. The service was attentive and friendly, and the overall experience was delightful. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.



Experience authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Terrazza Due Golfi in Ercolano.

As we reflect on our day, we are already looking forward to tomorrow's itinerary, which includes visits to Villa dei Papiri and Casa dell'Atrio Corinzio. Before heading back to the hotel, we briefly discussed the events that might be taking place in Herculaneum, but unfortunately there weren't any that we could find.


Today was a reminder of the incredible beauty and history that Italy has to offer. From the heights of Mount Vesuvius to the flavors of Campanian cuisine and the artistry of Donadio Corals and Cameos, every moment was a delight. I feel grateful to be able to share these experiences with Erika, and I look forward to many more adventures together.