Crossing Corsica
Crossing Corsica
$1280
Crossing Corsica
8 Days Starting in Corté and ending in Ajaccio
Visiting: France
Tour Overview
A veritable mountain in the sea, Corsica is the most geographically diverse of the Mediterranean Islands. It offers such a variety of landscapes from snow topped mountain peaks to fine sandy beaches. Age old paths link the high mountain plains with their shepherd huts through to the picturesque Mediterranean Coast. This itinerary starts in the central valley and crosses the Grand Randonnee 20 (GR20), the challenging long-distance route running most of the length of Corsica. On foot you'll discover scented pine forests and the pretty mountain village of Evisa, known for its chestnuts, and explore the deep Spelunca Gorge. From Porto you can explore the unique jumble of rose granite pinnacles including the famous Calanques of Piana before visiting Corsica's capital Ajaccio, birthplace of Napoleon.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Corte
Your trip will commence in the hill top town of Corte which was once the capital of Corsica and continues to be a centre for Corsican Nationalism. Whilst Corsica is officially part of France and Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Ajaccio, the majority of its inhabitants align themselves more with Italy. On arrival in Corte make your own way to your hotel.
Day 2 : Transfer To Scala Santa Regina Gorge And Commence Walk (5Hrs, 12Km/7.5Mi)
This morning you will be transferred to the heart of the Scala Santa Regina Gorge to commence your walk. The views of the Golo river as you enter the granite sided gorge are dramatic. You will follow ancient shepherd's paths into the borderlands of the Niolo region. Overnight by the Calacuccia Lake in the shadows of Monte Cinto (2710m/8891ft), Corsica's highest peak.
Altitude gain & loss: +850m, -500m
Day 3 : Walk To The Radule Waterfall And Shepherd House (6-7Hrs, 18Km/11Mi)
A superb day on the trail as you ascend through the forests of Verghio along a beautiful path overlooking the Golo Valley. You will have the chance to experience the cascading Radule Waterfall and Bergeries de Radule (shepherds huts and sheepfolds) where it is sometimes possible to purchase cheese. There are numerous opportunities to swim in the natural pools en route. For part of the day you will be walking on the iconic GR20 trail to reach your simple hotel in Verghio.
Altitude gain & loss: +900m, -554m.
*if the hotel in Verghio is closed (ie early in the season) you'll transfer Verghio to Evisa for overnight, transferring back to Verghio on the morning of day 4 to recommence walking (these transfers will be included).
Note: In 2024 the walk follows a slightly deviated path due to the closure of the Murriciollu bridge. 18km, +821 m, -270 m
Day 4 : To Evisa, Opportunities To Bathe Beneath Beautiful Waterfalls (4Hrs, 11.4Km/7Mi)
Today you will cross the Col de Verghio (1467m/4813ft) which marks the boundary between northern and southern Corsica. Just over the pass there is a striking statue by the sculptor Bonardi. Your destination is the village of Evisa, reached via a meandering path through the magnificent forest of Aitone. You will encounter immense Laricio pine trees, some of which are over 40m/131ft high and 300 years old. The forest is inhabited by wild boar, Aitone foxes, sparrow hawks and eagles among others. You may spot a Corsican nuthatch - if you are lucky! Natural pools and waterfalls abound on today's route. The pretty town of Evisa, set at 850m/2789ft, is famous for its ancient chestnut forest and has expansive views of the valley. There will be ample time to explore the village or have a swim in the hotel pool before dinner at the hotel.
Altitude gain & loss: +400m, -850m
Day 5 : Descend Through Gorges, Overnight In Porto (5.5Hrs, 14.8Km/9Mi)
Your walk continues to the stunning Spelunca Gorge, whose walls rise to 1000m in places. The gorge is the result of the confluence of several rivers whose crystalline waters offer the perfect opportunity for a swim. The route takes in two beautifully restored Genoese bridges dating from the 14th century, the Ponte Vecchiu and the Ponte Zaglia. A myriad of wildflowers and shrubs line rambling path as it cuts through the cliffs. You will emerge from the gorge near the sleepy village of Ota which is perched on the mountainside; it is a welcoming rest stop before your descent to Porto and your hotel.
Altitude gain & loss: +650m, -1450m.
Note: in 2024, the Spelunca Gorge will be closed due to trail damage following severe storms in late 2023. As a result, the day will begin with a transfer to Ota, and then 2 options for your walk to Porto. Option 1 - 13km, + 409 m, - 718 m. Option 2 16km, + 753 m, - 1071 m
Day 6 : Rest Day In Porto Or Walk To Piana (4 Hrs, 11.3Km/7Mi)
Today is free to explore the UNESCO listed Scandola Peninsula whose red granite cliffs soar dramatically from the sea. From your base in Porto, renowned for its magnificent sunsets, you can experience the wonders of the region. Many activities including snorkelling in the cove, bike riding and boating are all on offer and can be arranged locally. Porto is home to a Genoese Tower built in 1549 on a granite outcrop. An ascent of the tower offers stunning views of the area. On a clear day you can see the tower on Capo Rossu on the southern side of the Golfe de Porto.
Alternatively, you can hike to Piana from the beach of Porto past the impressive red cliffs of the "Calanques de Piana". The contrasting colours of the red porphyry rocks against a backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea are quite spectacular. The best way to see these otherworldly formations is on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the work of erosion and time on this geological wonderland. The trail winds along the meeting point of ocean and land, where the mountains run into the sea, climbing inland toward Capu d'Ortu. On arrival in Piana (440m/1444ft) you will appreciate why it is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Europe. Return to Porto by local bus.
Day 7 : Local Bus To Ajaccio, Transfer To Hotel, Rest Of The Day At Leisure To Explore
The local bus to Ajaccio takes around 2.5hrs and follows the coastline along the bays of Cargese and Sagone. Purchase your ticket from the driver (as buses do not operate on Sundays and public holidays except from 1 July to 31 August - a taxi would be required - additional cost applies). From 1 September until 30 June there is one bus in the morning (8:05am) on weekdays only, while in July and August there are two buses (8:05am and 1:35pm)*.
On arrival at Ajaccio coach station, you will be transferred to your hotel in the historic heart of Ajaccio. From the hotel you can easily explore the main attractions of this picturesque Mediterranean town including the home of Napoleon which is now a national museum, the Palace Fesch Museum with its impressive art collection, the surrounding beaches and the main square and surrounds where markets, shopping and lively bars and restaurants can be found.
*subject to change - for information see: https://www.corsicabus.org
Day 8 : Trip Concludes After Breakfast
The trip concludes this morning after breakfast.
What's Included
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Accommodation
6 nights mainly 3 star hotels -
7 breakfasts, 1 picnic lunch, 2 dinners - breakfast will usually be continental style and consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea and juices. Dinners will vary according to the fresh produce available but may be quite limited and repetitive in the mountains.
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5 nights in 3 star hotels, 1 night 2 star hotel on a twin share basis with private facilities, 1 night comfortable mountain lodge twin share also with private facilities.
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Luggage transfers - one piece of max 15kg per person
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Digital information pack - smartphone app with maps and route book
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Transfer from Corté to start of walk on day 2 and from Ajaccio coach station to the hotel on day 7
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Emergency hotline
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Travel to Corte and from Ajaccio
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Meals not listed as included, drinks
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Travel insurance - mandatory
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Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday
What's Not Included
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Dinner except as noted, lunch except on day 4 (other days you can buy at the gites or supplies from the village store) and drinks
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Bus transfer from Porto to Ajaccio on day 7 which is paid locally (allow EUR12) - does not operate on Sundays or public holidays. Travel on Sundays and public holidays is by taxi only and approx EUR300)
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Tour guide - this is a self guided trip
Accommodation
6 nights mainly 3 star hotels
During the trip you will be accommodated at a range of mainly 3 star hotels.
In Corte and Calacuccia the 3 star hotels are centrally located, clean and comfortable.
On the GR20 (Verghio) we use a comfortable but basic ski lodge with panoramic views. There is no wifi at this hotel.
In Evisa, it's a basic hotel with outstanding views from the dining area and many of the rooms. The hotel has a pool and is located about 500m from the town centre.
In Porto, the 3 star hotel we use is comfortable with a lovely pool and nice breakfast area. The hotel is located about 800m from the port.
Finally, the three star hotel in Ajaccio has an ideal location in the heart of town and in walking distance to the city's beaches and port. There is a lift and free wifi in the rooms.
Grading
MODERATE GRADE 3
This is a self-guided walk with average daily stages of 4 to 6 hours over mountainous and at times rugged terrain. The approximate walking times are listed for each stage, bear in mind these are walking times only and do not include breaks for lunch and rest stops. The trip is graded moderate as the paths although well defined and clearly marked, have some steep sections on sometimes loose and rocky ground and through scrubland (maquis). There are lots of ups and downs. A good level of fitness is required. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise - swimming, cycling, jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure.
What You Carry
As the walks are fully supported you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements including wet weather gear, lunch supplies, water bottle, warm top, phone etc
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