Itineraries to experience the magic of these natural giants up close 

Volcanoes have inspired stories, myths and legends, fascinating mankind since time immemorial. Even today, they continue to be a destination for trips and excursions because few things are as evocative as walking near these giants.

In Italy, we are lucky enough to have some of the most famous volcanoes. If you want a different kind of holiday and to embark on an adventurous tour of Italy’s active volcanoes, we have prepared this guide for you. 

Vesuvius Tour

Vesuvius is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world and a symbol of Campania. It’s best known for the eruption in 79 A.D. that swept away several towns in its surroundings, including Pompeii and Herculaneum. An object of great historical, natural and geological interest, since 1995 it has been enclosed within the Vesuvius National Park, where there are currently 11 accessible routes.

Located within a caldera of about 4 km, this 1281-metre-high volcano is quite convenient to visit and there are several itineraries to help you explore every corner. Of the various possible options, the most popular route is the one that crosses the Great Cone of the Vesuvius, which offers views overlooking the volcano's crater.

You will need to take nature trail No. 5, known as Il Gran Cono, which starts at the Piazzale di Ercolano and is about 4 km long. On this route, you will reach 1175 metres and be rewarded with an incredible view of Monte Summa, the Valle del Gigante and the Gulf of Naples. 

Not only that, but nature lovers will be surprised to discover that the crater of Vesuvius and its substratum provide a special habitat for many species of birds, including the redstart and the western black-eared wheatear.

However, you will not be alone on this journey as you must be accompanied by a guide or volcanologist authorised by the Campania Region.

If you want to explore Vesuvius at your leisure and enjoy Naples for a few days, then we recommend booking a room at the UNAHOTELS Napoli located in a historic building in the city centre.

Its crowning jewel? The open-air terrace Vesuvio Roof Bar & Restaurant by "UNA cucina" is perfect for dinner or an aperitif with views of the iconic volcano. 

The most beautiful trekking routes on Etna
 

Let’s move on to Sicily! After all, when talking about volcanoes in Italy, we cannot fail to mention the majestic Etna. Again, there are several routes available for exploring this giant, but which Etna excursion is best? The road leading to the Crateri Sommitali from the northern slope is undoubtedly one of the most travelled. 

You start at the forecourt of Piano Provenzana, on Mount Etna's northern slope, where you will be taken in a 4x4 up to 2950 metres.

From this altitude, you will start your Etna trek, leading you along an accessible path to Etna’s Crateri Sommitali. After a 90-minute walk, you will arrive at 3250 metres, where the rim of the Bocca Nuova Crater is located, and you will skirtthe Central Crater.

With another short climb, you will reach the North-East Crater, formed at the beginning of the 20th century and the real summit of Etna – a spectacular panorama will open up before your eyes. If the visibility is good, you will be able to see the Aeolian Islands, the coast of Taormina, Catania, and even Stromboli. 

In Catania, the ideal starting point for discovering the wonders of Etna is the Palace Catania | UNA Esperienze. This historic luxury hotel is the ideal place from where to explore a true Sicilian idyll.

Once again, you won’t be disappointed by its terrace, the Etnea Roof Bar & Restaurant by 'UNA cucina', which opens up onto the rooftops of Catania. In the distance, you can even see the profile of Mount Etna towering majestically over the city.

Discovering Stromboli and the Sciara del Fuoco

Stromboli is one of the seven Aeolian Islands, the wonderful UNESCO World Heritage archipelago, and is most famous for its volcano of the same name. Rarely will you come across a natural wonder like the Sciara del Fuoco. The lapilli that come out of the volcano roll down this depression and create a spectacle that will leave you breathless. 

This place is a must on your volcano trek. Various excursions are organised on the island, and it’s also possible to take part in late afternoon and evening outings to see Stromboli’s activity under the evocative light of sunset. 

There is also an excursion that will take you close to the craters, lasting five hours with a scheduled stop every 30 minutes. To ensure your safety, the time spent above 750 metres above sea level will be adjusted according to volcanic activity.

If you want to experience Stromboli in a unique way, it’s possible to customise excursions according to your needs and the number of participants.

For your visit to the Aeolian Islands, you could stay at L'Ariana Isole Eolie | UNA Esperienze. It’s located in a finely restored 1900 villa in the enchanting village of Rinella, on the island of Salina. 

This island is one of only two in the archipelago, along with Lipari, to be connected to all the others, and it’s ideal for reaching Stromboli.

Discovering volcanoes in Italy is a unique way to make your holiday unforgettable and truly immerse yourself in nature. Now, all you have to do is choose the excursion that appeals to you most and start your journey.