Corsica: Mountain Trails to the Sea
Corsica: Mountain Trails to the Sea
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Walk the ancient trails of the Corsican mountains, from the rugged peaks of the interior to the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean. On this journey, you will discover an island shaped by wind, granite and legends, where every step reveals a wild and authentic corner.
- Begin your journey in the mountainous heart of Corsica, among larch forests, glacial lakes and high hills, following part of the legendary GR20, considered one of the most challenging trails in Europe.
- Cross rugged gorges, stone villages and lonely plateaus, where the pure air and absence of crowds connect you with the island's wildest nature.
- As you head towards the west coast, the landscapes will change from sharp peaks to the intense blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the reddish rocks of the Calanches de Piana.
- Along the way, you will be welcomed by small Corsican villages, family-run inns and a cuisine marked by the island's character: artisan cheeses, wild boar sausages, chestnuts, honey and local wine.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Corte
The journey begins in Corte, a citadel nestled between rugged mountains and deep valleys, where the history of Corsica can be felt in every cobbled street. A former bastion of independence, Corte offers a vibrant and characterful start to your trip.
With rail connections to Bastia and Ajaccio, this historic capital is the ideal starting point for delving into the mountainous soul of Corsica, among rugged landscapes, vibrant culture and trails that descend towards the sea.
With rail connections to Bastia and Ajaccio, this historic capital is the ideal starting point for delving into the mountainous soul of Corsica, among rugged landscapes, vibrant culture and trails that descend towards the sea.
Overnight in Corte
Hôtel Duc De Padoue
This charming hotel offers rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen televisions, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. In addition, a delicious buffet or continental breakfast is served every morning.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Corte to Calacuccia 8,5 miles I 13,7 km
You will begin your route after a short transfer from Corte to the imposing Scala di Santa Regina gorge, where red granite cliffs rise steeply above the Golo River. The murmur of the water and the waterfalls hidden among the vegetation accompany you as the path winds along an ancient mule track that seems to have been carved into the rock.
The route winds its way through narrow bends and natural viewpoints, giving way to dizzying and solitary landscapes. With each stretch, the gorge becomes more intimate, like a sacred corridor where nature imposes its rhythm.
Finally, the trail opens up onto the Niolu plateau, where Lake Calacuccia lies, a tranquil mirror between mountains set in an environment of pastures and chestnut trees.
Ascent: 690m (2,264ft) / Descent: 345m (1,132ft)
The route winds its way through narrow bends and natural viewpoints, giving way to dizzying and solitary landscapes. With each stretch, the gorge becomes more intimate, like a sacred corridor where nature imposes its rhythm.
Finally, the trail opens up onto the Niolu plateau, where Lake Calacuccia lies, a tranquil mirror between mountains set in an environment of pastures and chestnut trees.
Ascent: 690m (2,264ft) / Descent: 345m (1,132ft)
Overnight in Calacuccia
Hotel L'Acqua Viva
Located in beautiful surroundings and surrounded by a garden, this accommodation offers fully equipped rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Calacuccia to Verghio 16,0 miles I 25,8 km
Leave Mare e Mare Nord behind and enjoy the forests of Verghio, where black pines mingle with silver birches and larch trees that filter the light like a vegetal cathedral. Between glades and shadows, the walk reveals serene, wild corners that invite contemplation.
A detour leads to the Radule waterfall, whose murmur guides you to a shepherd's hut hidden among rocks and pastures. There, freshly made Corsican cheese offers a break with authentic flavour, framed by the murmur of water and the whistle of the wind.
Back on the trail, the path briefly joins the legendary GR20, skirting crystal-clear pools where you can stop and immerse yourself in the coolness of the mountain. Although this stage has the greatest elevation gain of the entire trek, the views, the scents of the forest and the pace of the ascent make it one of the most memorable days.
The day ends in Castel di Verghio, surrounded by gentle peaks and alpine silence: a perfect end to a demanding and deeply beautiful day.
Ascent: 815m (2,674ft) / Descent: 191m (627ft)
A detour leads to the Radule waterfall, whose murmur guides you to a shepherd's hut hidden among rocks and pastures. There, freshly made Corsican cheese offers a break with authentic flavour, framed by the murmur of water and the whistle of the wind.
Back on the trail, the path briefly joins the legendary GR20, skirting crystal-clear pools where you can stop and immerse yourself in the coolness of the mountain. Although this stage has the greatest elevation gain of the entire trek, the views, the scents of the forest and the pace of the ascent make it one of the most memorable days.
The day ends in Castel di Verghio, surrounded by gentle peaks and alpine silence: a perfect end to a demanding and deeply beautiful day.
Ascent: 815m (2,674ft) / Descent: 191m (627ft)
Overnight in Verghio
Hotel Castel de Vergio
This accommodation offers comfortable rooms with flat-screen televisions, private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
It also has a restaurant and a beautiful terrace overlooking natural surroundings that will invite you to relax.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Verghio to Évisa 7,0 miles I 11,2 km
The day begins after passing Col de Verghio, crossing one of the highest passes on the island. The trail descends gently under the shade of tall, slender black pines, which only grow in these Corsican mountains.
In the distance, the Aitone River winds its way between the rocks, forming natural pools of turquoise water. It is the perfect place to take a break, go for a swim and relax in the sun.
The route continues through forests and gentle slopes until it reaches Évisa, a village surrounded by centuries-old chestnut trees and known as the chestnut capital. With its stone houses and leisurely pace, this small enclave epitomises the mountainous soul of the island.
Ascent: 205m (673ft) / Descent: 711m (2,333ft)
In the distance, the Aitone River winds its way between the rocks, forming natural pools of turquoise water. It is the perfect place to take a break, go for a swim and relax in the sun.
The route continues through forests and gentle slopes until it reaches Évisa, a village surrounded by centuries-old chestnut trees and known as the chestnut capital. With its stone houses and leisurely pace, this small enclave epitomises the mountainous soul of the island.
Ascent: 205m (673ft) / Descent: 711m (2,333ft)
Overnight in Évisa
Hotel Scopa Rossa
This hotel offers well-equipped rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a garden and terrace where you can relax at the end of the day. It also has a restaurant and bar.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Évisa to Porto 4,2 miles I 6,8 km
The day begins with a transfer from Évisa to the small village of Ota, where the trail climbs the slopes of Mount Capu San Petru, among aromatic scrubland and open views towards the Gulf of Porto. The elevated, panoramic path reveals some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the journey, where the blue of the sea contrasts with the mineral red of the rock.
For those who prefer a shorter walk, there is an alternative route through the valley that descends gently to Bussaglia beach, a cove with pebbles and clear waters, ideal for a picnic by the sea and the perfect end to the last day of the journey.
Ascent: 20m (66ft) / Descent: 330m (1,083ft)
For those who prefer a shorter walk, there is an alternative route through the valley that descends gently to Bussaglia beach, a cove with pebbles and clear waters, ideal for a picnic by the sea and the perfect end to the last day of the journey.
Ascent: 20m (66ft) / Descent: 330m (1,083ft)
Overnight in Porto
Hôtel Costa Rossa
This contemporary-style hotel offers comfortable rooms with flat-screen televisions, air conditioning, private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a terrace where you can relax and enjoy the views.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Porto-Piana-Porto 7,6 miles I 12,3 km
Today's route follows a coastal path that soon heads into the heart of the mountains. The trail climbs towards Capu d'Ortu, a solitary peak overlooking the Calanches de Piana, a landscape of wind-sculpted rock declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The effort of the climb is rewarded by breathtaking views over the gulf, with the sea sparkling in the distance between towers of pink granite.
To return from Piana to Porto, you will need to take the C2 bus line. Bear in mind that there are only two buses a day, so depending on your pace, you can choose to return on the first bus or take your time and wait for the last one. Also, from 1 September onwards, there is only one bus in the late afternoon.
You can check the timetable for this bus on the Via Corsica - Réseau de transports de la Collectivité de Corse website.
Ascent: 562m (1,844ft) / Descent: 143m (469ft)
To return from Piana to Porto, you will need to take the C2 bus line. Bear in mind that there are only two buses a day, so depending on your pace, you can choose to return on the first bus or take your time and wait for the last one. Also, from 1 September onwards, there is only one bus in the late afternoon.
You can check the timetable for this bus on the Via Corsica - Réseau de transports de la Collectivité de Corse website.
Ascent: 562m (1,844ft) / Descent: 143m (469ft)
Overnight in Porto
Hôtel Costa Rossa
This contemporary-style hotel offers comfortable rooms with flat-screen televisions, air conditioning, private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a terrace where you can relax and enjoy the views.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Enjoy your day in Ajaccio
The last day of your trip begins with a bus ride to Ajaccio, the Corsican capital bathed in Mediterranean light. Its lively seafront promenade invites you to slow down and let yourself be carried away by the island's urban pulse.
The birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, this vibrant city combines history, culture and modernity. From the marina to the fascinating A Bandera Museum, which traces Corsican history up to the 20th century, Ajaccio offers a richly nuanced end to a deeply natural journey.
Please note that bus frequency is limited, so we recommend checking in advance so you can plan your day.
You can find information on bus timetables on the Via Corsica - Réseau de transports de la Collectivité de Corse website.
The birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, this vibrant city combines history, culture and modernity. From the marina to the fascinating A Bandera Museum, which traces Corsican history up to the 20th century, Ajaccio offers a richly nuanced end to a deeply natural journey.
Please note that bus frequency is limited, so we recommend checking in advance so you can plan your day.
You can find information on bus timetables on the Via Corsica - Réseau de transports de la Collectivité de Corse website.
Overnight in Ajaccio
Hotel Napoleón
Located in the centre of Ajaccio, this modern hotel offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
It also has a bar and serves a full buffet breakfast every morning in its dining room.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Ajaccio
After a delicious breakfast, it is time to say goodbye and return to your place of origin.
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End of our services.
Itinerary Map
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Services
Included
- Accommodation in en suite rooms
- Daily Breakfasts
- 1 lunch
- 2 evening meals
- Luggage transfers between accommodations
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- Travel insurance
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
Accomodation
General information
The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.
Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.
The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.
We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.
The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.
Room types
It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.
All rooms have private bathrooms.
Travel & Transfers
To reach the starting point of this walking trail, we recommend flying to Ajaccio or Bastia airport. From there, you will need to take a train to Corte.
You can find all the information you need about trains on the Chemins de Fer de la Corse website.
To return to your city of origin from Ajaccio, you can fly from Ajaccio Airport. You can get there by taking train line 1, which takes only 10 minutes. You can find all the information about trains on the Chemins de Fer de la Corse website.
If you are flying from Bastia Airport, you will need to take a train from Ajaccio and cross the entire island.
You can find all the information you need about trains on the Chemins de Fer de la Corse website.
To return to your city of origin from Ajaccio, you can fly from Ajaccio Airport. You can get there by taking train line 1, which takes only 10 minutes. You can find all the information about trains on the Chemins de Fer de la Corse website.
If you are flying from Bastia Airport, you will need to take a train from Ajaccio and cross the entire island.
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
- Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
- Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
- Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
- Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
What is the best time of year to do this trip?
The route is available from late April to October, covering the best seasons for walking. Spring, especially May and June, offers pleasant temperatures and an explosion of wildflowers in full bloom. In July and August, the heat can be intense, so it is recommended to start your walks early, although the villages come alive with the hustle and bustle of summer.
What should my physical preparation be?
This route is of medium-high difficulty, making it ideal for people looking for 4 to 6 hours of walking per day with climbs that can be steeper and longer. It is recommended that you are in good physical condition and in good health. Some sections of the walk have uneven terrain, including rocky areas.
How far in advance should I book my trip?
We recommend that you book as soon as you are sure about your dates, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Once you make your reservation we will send you all the detailed information about the specific equipment you need for this route, considering recommendations for shoes, boots, clothes and a day-to day backpack.
What if I'm not able to finish one of the stages?
You can call us to arrange a private transfer for you.
If you prefer, you can also use public transport or local taxis to get to your next accommodation.
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