^^^ Mt Vesuvious^^^

[QueenofScreen]

Has anyone done this as a hike?

How hard?

[kate52]

A lot depends on the heat really. Husban and I (mid 50s) did it at the beginning of June last year as a trip from our hotel. We are neither of us fit, although both healthy. Mainly we felt a bit rushed getting up there due to the time constraints of the trip so we were a bit puffed. It is very shingly so the walking sticks offered at the beginning of the walk were really useful to prevent slipping. ( free, but tip appreciated when returning them). People of all ages were doing the walk, the path winds up the mountain so it's not too steep, about a mile of steady climb. If you buy a postcard at the kiosk at the top they stamp it for you to prove you did it!

[QueenofScreen]

same age:cool: same time of year :) .. was the weather hot at that time?

[ell52]

We just did this in November and it was cold. It's not easy, but doable if you're in reasonable shape. Make sure you have sturdy shoes because the footing is very crumbly (we weren't offered any walking sticks).

 

If you can't make it to the top (and there were quite a few who didn't), you'll still get a great view from the various vantage points along the way. There are also some spots with a bench for those who need to take a break. We didn't stop because of the time constraints (they gave us about 45 minutes, I think) and because we wanted to spend the bulk of our time at the summit.

 

As the previous poster stated, there are all shapes, sizes and ages doing the hike and I found it hilarious that some of us older types (50s -60s) passed a couple of teenaged school groups who were really huffing and puffing!

[QueenofScreen]

I look like a teenager:rolleyes: , but afraid that I'll be sounding like the puffing ones:D

[kate52]

At the beginning of June the weather was hot (high 70s), but although we dressed in long trousers, trainers etc for the walk, it wasn't too hot up there. The coach driver "hosed us down" before we got back on the coach ( just shoes!) Take water, and a stick if it's offered. We had never been to the top of a volcano before, so it was really interesting even if there was no smoke.

[QueenofScreen]

...... and the training begins!:mad: :mad: :mad:

anyone know what a 39 degree incline looks like (or feels like?):eek:

thanks for all the posts