Corsica Walking Holiday

On arrival at either Bastia or Calvi Airport, a transfer will take you directly to your first accommodation in Corte – a truly stunning location, surrounded by peaks and rivers. Here, you can settle into your hotel for two nights. Dinner is not included but there are plenty of restaurants to choose from in Corte.

Accommodation: 3* Hotel in Corte

Distance: 12½ km, 6 hours walking time, 310m ascent/descent

The Tavignano Gorge is one of Corsica’s most beautiful spots. Unlike the open pine escarpments of the nearby Restonica Valley, this there-and-back route follows a centuries-old mule track that weaves along a dramatic enclosed gorge. As you move up into the high mountains, you’ll be rewarded with glimpses of large rockpools below. After today’s walk, you’ll have plenty of time to explore Corte’s hilltop citadel and pick up any last-minute supplies before starting your point-to-point adventure tomorrow.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3* Hotel in Corte

Distance: 13km, 5 ½ hours walking time, 700m ascent, 340m descent

After breakfast, a taxi will take you to the start of your walk in the Scala di Santa Regina. This trail is an age-old path that was used by shepherds leading their herds in and out of the Niolu valley: it leads up through granite-faced cliffs, along a superb balcony path, and finally to a small Genoese bridge. Continue through old chestnut groves and rolling forest hills before walking down towards the lake, nestled in the base of the valley. Nearby you’ll find your overnight destination in the village of Calacuccia.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: 2* Hotel in Calacuccia

Distance: 17km, 7 hours walking time, 995m ascent, 430m descent

Walking from Calacuccia, you cross the ancient village of Albertacce, which has a strong cheese-making tradition. Taking a path from the village outskirts, you’ll pass by an old chestnut mill (a marker of another traditional local product) and cross a Genoese bridge, following a trail that winds its way up through a dense and vibrant forest. Across the valley, you can see Calasima, the highest village on the island. Most of today’s walk flanks the mountainside, producing sweeping views across the Niolu Valley and back down to the lake. A forest path leads uphill towards the Col de Vergio, where a delicious three-course dinner awaits you.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: 2* Hotel in Vergio

Distance: 11½ km, 5 hours walking time, 200m ascent, 720m descent

Today you’ll get your first views of the sea as you descend from the Col de Vergio, where an imposing statue marks the boundary point between the island’s north and south departments. The views here are majestic, with high looming peaks. The trail then moves downhill, through the Aïtone pine forest to the outskirts of Evisa. You’ll pass the piscine naturelle, a remarkable rock pool, and a local swimming spot, then continue down through the chestnut woods that mark your approach to the village. Tonight’s dinner is in a panoramic restaurant, where you can soak up the sun as it sets over the distant Mediterranean.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: 2* Hotel in Evisa

Distance: 14km, 6 hours walking time, 320m ascent, 1170m descent

Today the path starts by zig-zagging down into the depths of the Spelunca gorge. After crossing another stunning Genoese bridge, you’ll walk high above the torrent towards Ota, a mountain village with a distinct Mediterranean feel. The views as you leave Ota are sublime, and looking out towards the Gulf of Porto you’ll see red cliffs, an astoundingly blue sea, and the bold silhouette of the Genoese tower. In Porto, you’ll stay at a comfortable 3* hotel on the marina, the perfect base for exploring the town with its shops, bars, and restaurants.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3* Hôtel in Porto

Today you transfer directly from your hotel in Porto to your hotel in Calvi by taxi (1¾ hrs. – included) where you can check into your hotel, grab some lunch and then choose from one of the two following walks:

Notre Dame de la Serra: 5km, 2.5 hours walking time, 200m ascent/descent

The 13th-century chapel of Notre Dame de la Serra sits high above the town and affords captivating views of the Bay of Calvi and its mountainous backdrop. This short but beautiful walk leaves you plenty of time to explore Calvi and its iconic citadel.

Calvi to the Revellata Peninsula: 14km, 5 hours walking time, 300m ascent/descent

Stretching to the north of Calvi, the Revellata Peninsula gives a taste of the arid wilderness typical to the north-east of Corsica. The path hugs the coast, offering plenty of opportunities for a refreshing swim. Return by the same path, or take the high route over the cliffs on the western side before walking back to Calvi.

Alternatively, you might choose to explore Calvi, the self-styled capital of Corsican culture and the reputed birthplace of Christopher Columbus. There are many opportunities for a full and fun day here, doing some last minute shopping or spending some time on the beach!

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3* Hotel in Calvi

After breakfast a private transfer will take you directly to either Bastia or Calvi Airport (included).

Meals: Breakfast