Crossing Corsica

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.

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.

Distance: 13km/8.07mi, + 850m/2788ft, - 500m/1640ft

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.

Distance: 18km/11mi, + 900m/2952ft, - 554m/1817ft

*if the hotel in Verghio is closed (i.e. early in the season) you'll transfer Verghio to Evisa to overnight, transferring back to Verghio on the morning of day 4 to recommence walking (these transfers will be included).

Note: The walk may follow a slightly deviated path if the Murriciollu bridge is closed.

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.

Distance: 11.4km/7.03mi, + 400m/1312ft, -850m/2787ft

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.

Distance: 15km/9.32mi +650m/2132ft, -1450m/4757ft.

Note: The Spelunca Gorge is currently 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/8.07mi, + 409m/1341ft, - 718m/2355ft

Option 2 - 16km/9.94mi, + 753m/2470ft, - 1071m/3513ft

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.

Distance: 11.3km/7mi

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 (buses do not operate on Sunday and public holidays except from 1 July to 30 Sep - a taxi would be required - additional cost applies). From 1 September until 30 June there is one bus in the morning (8:05am) while in July and August there are two buses (8:05am and 1:35pm)*.

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

The trip concludes this morning after breakfast.