When you think of Italy, it’s hard not to conjure up images of Vespas zipping around the cobbled streets of Rome. Or picturesque pastel-coloured houses that hang off the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. One image that isn’t so obvious, however, is that of volcanoes.
And yet, Italy is the only country in Europe with three active volcanoes – and they’re quite the sight. So if you’re going on an Italian adventure, why not do something a little different and visit Etna, Stromboli, or Vesuvius?
Mount Etna
Mount Etna overlooks the popular tourist region of Sicily and has featured as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013. It stands at an impressive 3,327 metres, which makes Etna the highest volcano in the whole of Europe.
Etna first erupted more than 500,000 years ago and has since had many eruptions recorded. When it emits hot lava, the volcano looks like a spectacular fireworks display with fiery reds and oranges exploding into the sky. Of course, when it’s not erupting, Etna makes for an exciting tourist destination.
Travel to the Sicilian region and visit the volcano independently, choosing to go on a hike that takes around one-and-half-hours. Alternatively, you can use a tour operator or local agency who will plan your trip to this impressive landmark that has helped shape Sicily’s landscape.
Mount Stromboli
With continuous eruptions since 1932, Stromboli is one of the most active volcanoes on earth. Its consistent towering glow has seen it bestowed with the nickname “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean”, and its eruptions are visible for long distances at night.
Located off the coast of Southern Italy, Stromboli is one of the world’s most visited volcanoes. And the island of the same name is wildly popular during the summer when crowds of people visit for the majestic black-sand beaches.
You can hike to nearby vantage points and watch Stromboli erupt with an impressive firework-like display. Visitors can also soak up local charm and tranquillity, enjoying a car-free island that provides an idyllic setting with its pretty white houses and a town of just 300 residents.
Mount Vesuvius
If you’re searching for an active Italian volcano away from the region of Sicily, then you’ll need to head to Vesuvius. Set in the Gulf of Naples in Campania, Mount Vesuvius forms an ionic backdrop to the Bay of Naples and is famous for an eruption in AD 79 that destroyed the Roman settlement of Pompeii.
Many holidaymakers visit Vesuvius as part of a wider tour of Naples and the ruins of Pompeii, and you can hike around its crater to enjoy panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. The land around Vesuvius is a national park that is full of biodiversity and features several pleasant nature walks.
A visit to Vesuvius is more than a trip with stunning views. It’s a chance to fully understand the history of the area and the devastating impact it had on Pompeii and the town of Herculaneum. Hike the volcano and visualise the hot laving throttling down to the towns at more than 100mph.
An explosion of beauty in Italy
Volcano sightseeing isn’t what you would typically expect from a holiday in Italy, but it does offer the chance to visit ancient landmarks and see them in their natural beauty. Find ferry tickets on Ferryscanner so you can cruise the incredible seas, discovering a combination of magnificent volcanoes while you’re somewhere on the island.