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Hiking in Corsica: unforgettable walking trails on a paradise island
Corsican trails
Planning a trip to Corsica? An excellent choice! This paradise island in the heart of the Mediterranean reveals its beauty whether you stay for a weekend or a full week. From Bastia to Ajaccio, you will enjoy stunning scenery, a lively atmosphere and, above all, exceptional hiking trails.
If you are a true lover of hiking, you will absolutely enjoy your stay in Corsica. Between sea and mountains, you will discover routes set in lush green or deep blue landscapes, particularly within the Regional Natural Park of Corsica, while staying at our 4-star campsite in Corsica, ideally located for exploring the island.
Must-see hiking routes in Corsica
Iconic trails
Before heading out hiking in Corsica, it is essential to know the best routes to choose according to your preferences and skill level. That’s why Perla Di Mare offers you a Top 10 hiking trails selection to discover all the wonders of the island, between mountains, lakes and sea, particularly within the Regional Natural Park of Corsica. Find the route that speaks to you most and get ready to experience a true moment of freedom, immersed in Corsican nature.
Hiking routes to Corsican towers
Coastal heritage
1. Agnello Tower
For hiking enthusiasts looking to start with an easy hike in Corsica, the Agnello Tower trail is ideal. Located in northern Corsica, this coastal path offers an exceptional walk along the beach before leading you to the Genoese Agnello Tower, set on a small peninsula.
Allow around two hours to complete this route, which offers stunning views of Giraglia Island. As for elevation, there’s nothing to worry about: the ascent reaches a maximum of just 42 metres, making it a pleasant and refreshing walk.
2. Mortella Tower
Another beginner-friendly hike in Corsica is the walk to the Mortella Tower. Over approximately five hours, you will admire the idyllic landscapes revealed along the trail before reaching the ruins of the Genoese Mortella Tower.
The path runs along the coastline, offering uninterrupted views of the translucent sea. Take the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim by extending your hike to Loto Beach or Saleccia Beach.
3. Sénèque Tower
Looking for a short hike in Corsica with a low difficulty level? The trail leading to the Sénèque Tower is a perfect choice. Around one hour and thirty minutes are enough to explore its lush green and coastal landscapes.
You can start from the Santa-Lucia Pass to begin your ascent towards the tower. Once again, the climb is gentle, with a total elevation gain of just 240 metres.
Hiking routes around Corsican lakes
Alpine freshness
4. Lake Oriente
Among the must-see hiking trails during your stay in Corsica, the route leading to Lake Oriente is a true highlight. This demanding mountain hike is recommended for experienced hikers. Allow more than five hours to complete the loop, with an elevation gain of up to 1,100 metres. Despite its difficulty, this hike is well worth the effort, revealing spectacular landscapes, from Lake Oriente all the way to the summit of Monte Rotondo.
5. Lake Creno
If you are looking for easy hiking routes in Corsica, be sure to set aside a day for the trail leading to Lake Creno. This walk takes just over two hours and offers a very low level of difficulty. It is even possible to complete this Corsican hike on horseback or pony, making it ideal for children and families eager to enjoy a unique outdoor experience in the natural setting of a paradise island.
6. Lake Nino
Do you love walking hikes? Then set off to discover Lake Nino. This exceptional trail offers a fairly high level of difficulty, best suited to confident walkers.
The hike lasts over four hours and provides the opportunity to explore Corsica’s wet meadows, while enjoying views of a magnificent mountain landscape and the stunning Lake Nino itself.
Hiking routes to Corsica’s mountain summits
Corsican peaks
7. Punta Sant’Eliseo
For hiking enthusiasts looking for a moderate-level trail, the route leading to Punta Sant’Eliseo is a perfect choice. It offers exceptional views over the Gulf of Ajaccio and the Gulf of Sagone. Along the way, you will also admire mountains rising thousands of metres high, making this hike in Corsica a truly memorable experience.
8. Monte Renoso
Among the must-do hikes in Corsica, it is impossible not to mention the trail leading to Monte Renoso. This route is considered one of the most challenging hiking itineraries on the island. If you are an experienced hiker and not afraid of a demanding route, set off on this adventure lasting more than four hours. It reveals exceptional landscapes, combining mountains and alpine meadows, and offers an indescribable feeling of freedom.
9. Monte d’Oro
Another trail with a high level of difficulty is the route to Monte d’Oro. This hike in Corsica is recommended for seasoned walkers, as it is long and demanding.
Allow around nine hours to complete the route, with an elevation gain of up to 1,500 metres. The effort is richly rewarded with a splendid view from the summit. It is also possible to complete this hike as a loop, returning to the starting point.
10. Monte Calva
The final hike in Corsica we recommend is the trail leading to Monte Calva. Unlike the previous mountain hikes, this route is fairly easy and accessible, with an ascent of only 400 metres and a duration of around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Walk through a lush green landscape at several thousand metres above sea level and fully enjoy this sense of freedom.
Long-distance hiking routes in Corsica
Itinerant adventure
While the previously recommended hikes can be completed in a single day, there are also much longer routes offering numerous stages along the way. These hikes allow you to cross the island on foot and are known as the “Mare à Mare” and “Mare e Monti” trails. You can follow these iconic routes throughout Corsica, in the north, central and southern parts of the island. They require careful preparation, including camping equipment, in order to rest between stages, regain energy and continue the journey the next day. These hikes are ideal for adults and offer a true itinerant adventure. It’s up to you to choose the starting point that best suits your plans and begin your Corsican epic.
Hiking in Corsica: levels, duration and types of routes
For everyone
Hikes suited to all levels
Hiking in Corsica is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. Depending on the level of difficulty, you can choose easy trails accessible to everyone or more challenging routes requiring good physical condition. This wide variety allows everyone to enjoy hiking at their own pace, in complete peace of mind.
Hike duration and route planning
In Corsica, the duration of hikes varies greatly depending on the chosen route. Some walks can be completed in just a few hours, while others require a full day or even several stages.
Choosing the right starting point, the type of route (out-and-back or loop) and the distance is essential to plan your hike under the best possible conditions.
Discover Corsica differently through hiking
Total immersion
Guided hikes and regional discovery
Choosing a guided hike in Corsica allows you to explore the trails in a safer and more enriching way. Accompanied by a guide, hikers discover the region, its landscapes and the island’s natural features, while following marked trails adapted to the group.
Hiking in Corsica with family or friends
Hiking is also a friendly activity to enjoy with family or friends. Some routes are perfectly suited for children, with short distances and limited elevation gain. These trails offer a wonderful introduction to Corsican nature and are an excellent way to share a moment of outdoor discovery together.
Preparing for a hike in Corsica
Be well equipped
Whether you are planning a day hike in Corsica or tackling one of the long-distance trails mentioned above, proper preparation is essential for this walking adventure. The first step is to wear good hiking shoes that can handle several hours of walking and feature a durable sole to protect you from obstacles along the trail. Wearing long trousers is also recommended to limit scratches during your hike in Corsica. Be sure to pack extra clothing in case of unexpected temperature changes, as well as food, water and a mobile phone. A hiking map can also be a valuable asset to help you find your way more easily.
Organising a guided hike in Corsica
Peace of mind guaranteed
While hiking in Corsica can be done independently, it is also possible to complete a loop or trail with a group and a guide. With no risk of getting lost, you can enjoy friendly exchanges with other hikers, while the guide shares stories and anecdotes about the island and its natural wonders.
Hiking in Corsica: freedom, nature and comfort
Sustainable escape
Enjoy a breathtaking experience during your stay on an idyllic island by planning a hike in Corsica. Between exceptional trails, preserved landscapes and moments of freedom in the heart of nature, each route becomes a unique memory. After the effort, our Perla di Mare estate, a true campsite in Corsica, welcomes you in a setting designed for relaxation. Extend the adventure by staying in our fully equipped mobile homes in Corsica, holiday villas in Corsica or within our holiday village in Corsica, all designed to combine comfort, conviviality and quality services. Book your accommodation now and make the most of our activities and entertainment to complete your stay.