Hiking in Corsica, from the mountain to the sea
6 days of trekking from Calacuccia to Porto in Corsica, from the mountains to the sea, with a local certified mountain guide.
Group
Corsica-Sardinia massif
6 Days
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Occasional
Intermediate
Description
Between the Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian seas, the mountains of Corsica boast a huge variety of atmospheres and landscapes. This track I propose offers the advantage of "tasting" this richness. We will go through all stages of vegetation. Indeed, from the high peaks (alpine and minerals) to the sea of the Gulf of Porto (UNESCO heritage site).
This hike will allow you to discover mountain villages, rivers with water of high purity (bathing almost daily!), altitude lakes, sheepfolds, the GR 20, chestnut trees, old Genoese bridges, Mediterranean maquis… Enough to leave with a multitude of memories and scents.
I will help you discover these spaces with passion. Of course I will help you in difficult passages for you to reach the wildest parts of the island.
The following are some highlights of this beautiful hike:
– Contrast Sea/Mountain
– Swimming in torrents
– A State Certified Mountain Guide
– The discovery of local products for picnics
– The possibility of lodging in room
Does this trip sound tempting? Then please contact me! Me or one of my colleagues will be happy to guide you through these beautiful Corsican paths, between mountain and sea. I also offer many other hiking trips in Corsica. For example, Hiking along the Mare e Monti south or Hiking the southern part of the GR 20.
Price includes
- Guiding fee
- Accommodation included
- Transport during the trip
- Luggage transfer
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Itinerary
Day 1: Muriccioli bridge
The roads inside Niolu lead us into the Niolu valley. First steps on the mule paths to the Genoese bridge Muriccioli. By ancient mountain crop fields and gardens we arrive “to the village”.
Duration 3:30hs
D +/-250m
Day 2: Ninu lake
We go up the Colga valley to Ninu Lake, free horse heaven, one of the “pearls” of the Corsican mountain. Picnic on the vast lawns bordering the lake (I pozzi). Returning, from “Bocca a Reta”, the view over the sea and the Gulf of Sagone is stunning.
Duration 6hs.
D +850/-600m
Day 3: Paglia Orba
We walk on the GR 20, in the heart of the Paglia Orba volcanic massif. Stop at the sheepfolds and cooling under the Radule waterfalls .
Duration 5hs
D +/- 500m
Day 4: Vergio pass - Aïtone
This hike takes us on the western slopes of the island. We cross the Vergio pass and start our slow descent to the sea in the shade of Laricci pines. We stop at the shores of natural pools of Aïtone, clear bowls of this mountain stream. We reach the lively village of Evisa by the “Chemin du châtaignier”.
Duration 5:30hs
D +200/-750m
Day 5: Gorges of the Spelunca
By an old cobbled path we descend to the red granite show the Gorges of the Spelunca. Mountain vegetation gradually gives way to the Mediterranean species. Finally we arrive in Ota.
Duration 4hs
D +270/-800m
Day 6: Mare e Monti path - Porto
We follow a while the Mare e Monti path, then we descend to the sea. Remarkable viewpoint of the Calanche de Piana, the Gulf of Porto and the Scandola Nature Reserve. This trail through the bush leads to the beach of Porto, the final point of our journey on foot. By early afternoon, return to Ajaccio.
Duration 4hs
D +200/-530m
Details
Accommodation In cottages. These accommodations provide a blanket and pillow. For your comfort, bring a light sleeping bag or sleeping bag liner (enough in summer). |
More info Group size: 8 to 14 people Transfers by bus, minibus or car. Main transfers are: - Day 1: Ajaccio - Valley Niolu (2:45h) - Day 6: Porto - Ajaccio (2h) LEVEL: Medium (M) - Average duration of 5 hours and steps surrounding elevation means less than 600m. The paths do not present particular difficulties but can be degraded or straight over long portions. One or two days can be beyond the above criteria. You are physically fit and practice occasionally hiking (2 to 3 times per month). You do not fear the succession of days of activity or a good climb from time to time. Meals: - Lunch: in the form of picnic during the trek. The picnics are prepared using quality local products, I pay particular care in choosing our products (mixed salad, cold cuts, cheese from goat or sheep). Food during the hike (Corsican cakes and dried fruit) - Dinners and breakfasts: they are taken together at the accommodation site. |
Meeting point On day 1 at 8:30AM in Ajaccio, in front of the SNCF railway station. My team supports your luggage assistance. Therefore, you must introduce yourself. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How will accommodation and meals be handled during the trek?
What is the best time of the year for this hike?
What experience do I need to have? How fit do I need to be? Is this program suitable for children or older people?
How can I get to the trailhead/meeting point?
What is the average distance and altitude gain that we will hike each day?
About the guide
We are specialists in hiking holidays in Corsica...and it is not by chance. We are a small team who is passionate about the Corsican landscape and who has been hiking in its mountains for years.
On our tours, you will discover the best spots in Corsica and uncover all its best-kept secrets. You'll be able to avoid the crowds and explore the island's wild and untamed nature. Come join us!
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