Find Your Path: The Best Hiking in Corsica

Corsica, often referred to as the “Island of Beauty,” is a hiker’s paradise nestled in the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its rugged landscapes, dramatic mountains, and pristine coastline, this French island offers some of the most challenging and rewarding hiking experiences in Europe. Whether you're a seasoned trekker looking for a multi-day adventure or a casual hiker seeking a scenic day trip, Corsica’s diverse terrain has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best hiking and trekking routes on this breathtaking island, ranked by difficulty.

1. GR20: The Ultimate Corsican Challenge

The GR20 is one of the most famous long-distance hiking trails in Europe, often hailed as the toughest trek on the continent. Stretching over 112 miles from the northern village of Calenzana to the southern town of Conca, the GR20 traverses Corsica’s mountainous spine. This demanding trail takes hikers through rocky ridges, deep valleys, and high-altitude plateaus, offering stunning panoramic views at every turn. The GR20 is a test of endurance and determination, making it a bucket-list trek for serious hikers. Difficulty: ★★★★★

Route Highlights:

• Ascent of Monte Cinto: The highest peak in Corsica, offering breathtaking views.
• Lac de Nino: A beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by lush meadows.
• Cirque de la Solitude: A dramatic and challenging section of the trail (recently rerouted for safety).

Best Time to Hike:The best time to hike the GR20 is from late June to September when the snow has melted, and the mountain huts (refuges) are open.

Local Tips:

1. Prepare for All Conditions: The GR20 is notorious for its unpredictable weather, so pack layers and rain gear.
2. Book Refuges Early: Accommodation in mountain huts fills up quickly, so reserve your spot well in advance.
3. Train in Advance: This trail is extremely challenging, so physical preparation is essential.

2. Mare a Mare Nord: A Scenic Cross-Island Trek

For those seeking a less demanding but equally rewarding experience, the Mare a Mare Nord is a fantastic option. This cross-island trail runs from Moriani on the east coast to Cargèse on the west coast, offering a diverse range of landscapes from coastal paths to forested valleys and mountainous terrain. The Mare a Mare Nord is a more accessible trek, typically completed in about 7 days, making it perfect for hikers who want to experience the beauty of Corsica without the intense challenges of the GR20. Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

Route Highlights:

• Corte: A historic town in the heart of Corsica, surrounded by mountains.
• Tavignano Gorge: A stunning canyon with crystal-clear rivers, perfect for a refreshing swim.
• Évisa: A picturesque mountain village surrounded by chestnut forests.

Best Time to Hike:The best time to hike the Mare a Mare Nord is from April to June and September to October when the weather is mild and the trails are less crowded.

Local Tips:

1. Explore Corte: Take some time to explore the historic citadel and the local cuisine in this charming town.
2. Stay Hydrated: Some sections of the trail are exposed, so carry plenty of water, especially in the warmer months.
3. Take Your Time: This trek is less strenuous, so enjoy the journey and take in the views.

3. Mare e Monti: Coastal and Mountain Beauty

The Mare e Monti trail offers a perfect blend of coastal and mountainous scenery, making it one of Corsica’s most picturesque hikes. Stretching from Calenzana to Cargèse, this trail takes about 10 days to complete and offers hikers the chance to explore both the rugged coastline and the island’s lush interior. The Mare e Monti is known for its varied terrain, from gentle hills to steep ascents, and passes through charming villages, offering a glimpse into traditional Corsican life. Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

Route Highlights:

• Girolata: A remote village accessible only by foot or boat, offering stunning coastal views.
• Foret d’Aitone: A beautiful forest with ancient pine trees and natural swimming pools.
• Porto: A picturesque coastal town with dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

Best Time to Hike:The best time to hike the Mare e Monti is from May to October when the weather is warm, and the days are long.

Local Tips:

1. Stay in Girolata: Spend a night in this secluded village for a truly unique experience.
2. Enjoy the Beaches: Take a break and relax on the beautiful beaches near Cargèse.
3. Sample Local Cuisine: Try Corsican specialties like wild boar stew and chestnut-based desserts in the mountain villages.

4. Lac de Melo and Lac de Capitello: Stunning Alpine Lakes

For a rewarding day hike, the trail to Lac de Melo and Lac de Capitello is one of Corsica’s most popular. Located in the Restonica Valley near Corte, this hike takes you to two stunning alpine lakes surrounded by towering granite peaks. The trail to Lac de Melo is relatively easy, making it accessible to most hikers, while the path to Lac de Capitello is steeper and more challenging, but well worth the effort for the breathtaking views. Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆

Route Highlights:

• Lac de Melo: A serene lake nestled in a glacial cirque, surrounded by rugged peaks.
• Lac de Capitello: A dramatic alpine lake, known for its deep blue waters and sheer cliffs.
• Restonica Valley: A picturesque valley with crystal-clear rivers and lush vegetation.

Best Time to Hike:The best time to hike to Lac de Melo and Lac de Capitello is from June to September when the trails are free of snow and the weather is ideal for hiking.

Local Tips:

1. Start Early: These trails can get crowded, so start your hike early to enjoy the lakes in peace.
2. Wear Sturdy Shoes: The path to Lac de Capitello is rocky and steep, so good footwear is essential.
3. Pack a Picnic: Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lakes, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.

5. Sentier des Douaniers: Coastal Splendor

For those who prefer coastal hikes, the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers’ Path) along the Cap Corse peninsula is a must. This scenic trail follows the rugged northern coastline of Corsica, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, hidden coves, and charming fishing villages. The Sentier des Douaniers is perfect for a leisurely day hike, with several sections to choose from, each offering a unique perspective of Corsica’s beautiful coastline. Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆

Route Highlights:

• Macinaggio to Barcaggio: A picturesque stretch with views of the Tuscan archipelago.
• Barcaggio to Centuri: A section known for its secluded beaches and clear waters.
• Centuri to Nonza: A path that passes through quaint villages and offers stunning views of the sea.

Best Time to Hike:The best time to hike the Sentier des Douaniers is from April to June and September to October when the weather is mild, and the coastal views are at their best.

Local Tips:

1. Swim in the Coves: Bring your swimsuit and take a dip in one of the many secluded coves along the trail.
2. Visit the Villages: Explore the charming villages along the route, known for their traditional Corsican architecture.
3. Pack Light: This is a relatively easy hike, so pack light and enjoy the journey.

6. Monte Rotondo: The Island’s Second Highest Peak

Monte Rotondo, Corsica’s second-highest peak, offers a challenging but rewarding trek for experienced hikers. The trail begins near the village of Calacuccia and takes you through a diverse landscape of pine forests, rocky ridges, and alpine meadows. The final ascent to the summit is steep and demanding, but the panoramic views from the top make it all worthwhile. From the summit, you can see the entire island, with the Mediterranean Sea stretching out in every direction. Difficulty: ★★★★★

Route Highlights:

• Lac de l’Oriente: A beautiful alpine lake located near the summit.
• Panoramic Views: Stunning 360-degree views of Corsica from the summit.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for mouflons (wild sheep) in the higher altitudes.

Best Time to Hike:The best time to hike Monte Rotondo is from June to September when the snow has melted and the weather is stable.

Local Tips:

1. Start Early: This is a long and challenging hike, so start early to allow plenty of time to reach the summit and return.
2. Check the Weather: Weather conditions can change rapidly at high altitudes, so be prepared.
3. Bring a Headlamp: If you plan on reaching the summit at sunrise, a headlamp is essential for the early morning ascent.

7. Capu d’Ortu: A Spectacular Coastal Hike

The hike to Capu d’Ortu is a stunning coastal trek that offers some of the best views of Corsica’s famous Calanques de Piana—dramatic red granite cliffs that rise majestically above the Mediterranean Sea. The trail begins in the village of Piana and climbs steadily through a landscape of rugged rock formations and lush maquis shrubland. The summit of Capu d’Ortu offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Porto, the Scandola Nature Reserve, and the surrounding mountains. Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

Route Highlights:

• Calanques de Piana: Iconic red granite cliffs that are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Gulf of Porto: Panoramic views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Porto.
• Sunset Views: The trail is particularly beautiful in the late afternoon when the sun sets over the sea.

Best Time to Hike:The best time to hike Capu d’Ortu is from April to October when the weather is warm and the skies are clear.

Local Tips:

1. Hike at Sunset: For the most dramatic views, plan your hike in the late afternoon and watch the sunset from the summit.
2. Wear Sun Protection: The trail is exposed, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
3. Explore Piana: After your hike, take some time to explore the charming village of Piana, known for its traditional Corsican architecture.

8. Monte d’Oro: A Challenging Summit

Monte d’Oro is another challenging hike that rewards trekkers with stunning views of Corsica’s interior mountains and coastline. The trail starts near the town of Vizzavona and takes hikers through dense forests, rocky slopes, and alpine meadows. The final ascent to the summit is steep and requires some scrambling, but the views from the top are truly spectacular. On a clear day, you can see the island’s east and west coasts, as well as the nearby Monte Rotondo. Difficulty: ★★★★☆

Route Highlights:

• Cascade des Anglais: A series of beautiful waterfalls and natural pools near the start of the trail.
• Alpine Scenery: Stunning views of Corsica’s rugged interior mountains.
• Summit Views: Panoramic views of the island’s coastline from the summit.

Best Time to Hike:The best time to hike Monte d’Oro is from June to September when the weather is stable, and the snow has melted.

Local Tips:

1. Scrambling Required: The final ascent involves some scrambling, so be prepared for a bit of a climb.
2. Stay in Vizzavona: Consider staying overnight in Vizzavona to explore more of the surrounding trails.
3. Enjoy the Waterfalls: Take a break at the Cascade des Anglais for a refreshing dip in the natural pools.

9. Col de Bavella: The Heart of Corsica’s Mountains

The Col de Bavella is one of Corsica’s most iconic mountain passes, offering stunning views of the island’s jagged peaks and lush forests. Several trails start from the pass, including the challenging ascent to the Aiguilles de Bavella, a series of sharp granite pinnacles. The area is also home to the famous Trou de la Bombe, a natural rock formation with a large hole in the middle, which is a popular destination for hikers. Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

Route Highlights:

• Aiguilles de Bavella: Dramatic granite pinnacles that are a highlight of the region.
• Trou de la Bombe: A natural rock formation with a unique circular hole.
• Bavella Pass: Panoramic views of Corsica’s mountainous interior.

Best Time to Hike:The best time to hike in the Bavella region is from May to October when the weather is warm and the trails are clear.

Local Tips:

1. Start Early: The trails around Bavella can get crowded, so start early to enjoy the views in peace.
2. Explore the Area: There are several trails to choose from, so consider spending a few days in the area to explore.
3. Be Prepared for Wind: The Bavella Pass is known for its strong winds, so bring a windbreaker.

10. Gorges de Spelunca: A Scenic River Gorge

The Gorges de Spelunca is a stunning river gorge that offers one of the most scenic hikes in Corsica. The trail follows an old mule track that winds through the gorge, crossing ancient stone bridges and offering breathtaking views of the towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters below. The hike can be done as a round trip or as part of a longer trek connecting the villages of Evisa and Ota. Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

Route Highlights:

• Pont Genois: Ancient stone bridges that span the river gorge.
• Gorge Views: Dramatic views of the narrow gorge and its steep cliffs.
• River Pools: Crystal-clear pools perfect for a refreshing swim.

Best Time to Hike:The best time to hike the Gorges de Spelunca is from May to October when the weather is warm and the river levels are low.

Local Tips:

1. Swim in the Pools: Bring your swimsuit and take a dip in one of the many river pools along the trail.
2. Hike to Evisa or Ota: Consider extending your hike to the charming villages of Evisa or Ota.
3. Wear Sturdy Shoes: The trail can be rocky and uneven, so wear good hiking shoes.

Corsica is the ultimate playground for hikers, with trails that cater to everyone, from laid-back wanderers to hardcore trekkers. Whether you're up for conquering rugged mountain paths or just want to chill with some coastal views, Corsica’s got you covered.