The best walks and hikes around Palma Campania

A pedestal, seemingly oversized compared to the size of the actual cross, forms the base for this small sacred monument. The stone base is divided horizontally into several levels, the third of which tapers towards the top. Above it stands the cross, whose crossbeam—in contrast to the longitudinal beam—is provided with a series of holes, the bottom of which, however, is not visible to the observer.

We will then cross fantastic scenery across the entire Piana Campana and reach the panoramic terrace where the most beautiful “rope” lava formation of Vesuvius is located, engraved by a deep fracture in which numerous species of fern live and inside which it is possible to enter as if we were in the bowels of the Earth! The path then continues along the Cognoli di Lavante of Monte Somma: a beautiful panoramic climb on one of the most scenic routes of the entire Park!

The very panoramic itinerary allows you to enjoy the most suggestive and wild scenery of Somma-Vesuvius, crossing forest environments, scrubland up to bare lava rock. The starting point is located along the road that from the Medici Palace of Ottaviano continues towards the volcanic complex. A barrier prohibiting vehicular traffic marks the beginning of the route, the first stretch of the path, common with path no. 1, winds along asphalted hairpin bends, and then turns into a dirt path. The plant landscape consists initially of a thick pine forest of stone pine and then in a mesophilous forest, with essences such as chestnut, Neapolitan alder, Neapolitan maple, holm oak, black locust. Among the nesting birds, the minute lesser spotted woodpecker, rare and localized in Campania, has only recently colonized the Vesuvius Park. After more than 1 km of walking on a steep climb you reach Largo Angelo Prisco dedicated to the young financier murdered by poachers in 1995 which represents the closest destination. From the Largo, path no. 1 branches off to the left, while the itinerary continues on the right on a slight climb, entering, between twists and turns, into a shady chestnut grove where the numerous species of mushrooms present give off an intense and pleasant fragrance.

Some benches in the shade of a circle of trees, allow you to rest comfortably

The Palazzo Mediceo is a historic structure built in the Lombard era before the year 1000 in Ottaviano, a municipality in the province of Naples, and later belonged to a branch of the Florentine Medici family. In the second half of the 20th century it ended up in the hands of the Camorra, and was then returned to the city of Ottaviano in 1995. From the garden you can enjoy a beautiful view of the nearby Parish of San Michele Arcangelo. From November to April it is open from Thursday to Sunday from 10 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 5 pm. From May to October it is open from Monday to Friday from 10 am to 1 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm. On Saturday and Sunday instead from 11 am to 2 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm. During this period it hosts beautiful Christmas markets in the evening, with shows and various related initiatives.

With the tower on the corner, the building looks respectful, but from up close it is clearly showing its age. Nevertheless, it is impressive.

This building really stands out from the mass of houses in the village because of its battlements. I couldn't figure out why they were built, but I just thought the building was special. Perhaps someone can add to this.

A beautiful, high-lying castle with a charming park all around. The administration of the Vesuvio National Park is located in the gatehouse at the entrance.