Haute Corse is a land of contrasts and natural wonders, offering hikers landscapes ranging from mountain ridges to dense forests and spectacular coastlines. Here’s a guide to not-to-be-missed hikes for nature and adventure lovers.
Running along the coastline, the Sentier des Douaniers offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, passing historic sites, secluded beaches and crystal-clear coves. This is a moderate hike that plunges you into Corsica’s maritime history.
The Sentier des Douaniers de Saint Florent, in Haute Corse, is a must-do coastal walk that winds along the Tyrrhenian Sea. This historic route, once used by customs officers to keep an eye on the coast, today offers a peaceful stroll through fragrant scrubland and secluded white sandy beaches. Starting from the charming port of Saint Florent, the trail takes hikers through Mediterranean landscapes, revealing breathtaking views of the Gulf, the Nebbiu mountains and the Agriates desert. It’s an accessible hike that delights walkers of all levels, ideal for a half-day of exploration, with stops to swim in the crystal-clear waters and relax on uncrowded beaches.
Although it crosses the whole of Corsica, the northern section of the GR20 in Haute Corse is particularly renowned for its varied terrain and breathtaking panoramas. It’s a demanding hike that rewards hikers with views of majestic mountains and glacial lakes.
Considered one of the most demanding long-distance hiking trails in Europe, the northern part of the GR20 crosses Haute Corse, offering a natural spectacle of unspoilt beauty. From Calenzana to Vizzavona, experienced hikers are challenged by steep trails, airy ridges and passages that sometimes require the use of hands. Each stage reveals grandiose panoramas of deep valleys, laricio pine forests and crystal-clear high altitude lakes.
This adventure in the heart of the Corsican mountains is a quest for self-improvement and communion with nature. The refuges along the GR20 are convivial places where hikers from all over the world come to share their stories and conquer the mythical GR20.
Located near Corte, the Restonica valley is a hiker’s paradise, with trails leading to mountain lakes such as Lac de Melo and Lac de Capitello. Surrounded by high peaks, the valley offers hikes for all levels.
Located in the picturesque Restonica valley, Lac de Melo is a popular hiking destination in Haute Corse, perfectly suited to families and hikers of all levels. The well-marked path offers a gradual ascent through a captivating mountain landscape, punctuated by refreshing waterfalls and pine forests. On reaching this glacial lake, nestled in the shadow of towering ridges, visitors are rewarded by the tranquillity of its crystal-clear waters and the serenity of an unspoilt environment. It’s an ideal place to picnic, relax and even, for the bravest, take a dip in the invigorating waters. Hiking at Lac de Melo is a rejuvenating experience, a moment of communion with Corsican nature.
For those looking for a more demanding hike in Haute Corse, Lac de Capitello, the deepest lake on the island, is a must. Accessible from Lake Melo, the path to Lake Capitello is steeper and requires a good level of fitness. This ascent comes to life in a high mountain setting, with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and the valley below. Arriving at the lake, the
hiker is faced with a landscape of austere beauty, where deep, dark waters reflect granite peaks. It’s a hike that offers not only an exceptional natural spectacle, but also a sense of accomplishment for walkers who take on the challenge of this alpine terrain.
Hiking around Cap Corse allows you to discover the wild character of Haute Corse, with coastal paths offering spectacular views of cliffs plunging into the sea and Genoese towers.
The Sentier des Douaniers du Cap Corse offers an immersive hiking experience in the heart of unspoilt nature. Starting from the picturesque village of Macinaggio, this trail reveals the rugged beauty of Cap Corse, with its secret coves, sheer cliffs and dense vegetation. Along the way, walkers discover Genoese towers, remnants of the days when privateers plied the Mediterranean. This route plunges you into Corsica’s maritime history while enjoying breathtaking sea views. The trail, offering views of the islands of the Tuscan archipelago and the silhouette of the island of Elba, is an invitation to marvel at the diversity and richness of the landscapes of Upper Corsica.
Every trail in Haute Corse is a promise of escape and discovery, offering hikers unforgettable experiences in the heart of Corsican nature. From coastal paths to mountain trails, Haute Corse is an invitation to adventure for all those looking to explore the island’s natural beauty on vacation.
