Canyoning in Haute-Corse
Discover the canyoning to practice in the Balagne region !
Discover the canyoning to practice in the Balagne region !
Discover the canyoning to practice in Haute-Corse !
Haute-Corse, with its imposing mountains, secret valleys, and clear rivers, is a dream playground for nature and thrill-seekers. Among the activities that allow you to actively explore these landscapes, canyoning occupies a special place. It’s much more than just a sport: it’s a way to immerse yourself in wild Corsica, to discover otherwise inaccessible corners, and to experience powerful, sometimes timeless moments.
The principle is simple: descend a canyon, that is, a gorge carved by a river, progressing through a series of natural obstacles. You walk, you swim, you slide down rock slides, you jump into pools of water, you rappel down waterfalls… Each route is different, and that’s what makes the experience so unique each time.
Among the most renowned in the region, the Ruda Canyon fully deserves its popularity. Nestled in a spectacular natural setting between Calvi and Île-Rousse, it offers a complete immersion in inland Corsica. Access to the site is via the Scala di Santa Regina, a path that winds between the rock walls. This 30- to 45-minute approach walk alone is an adventure in itself.
Once inside the canyon, the experience becomes more technical, but still accessible. The jumps, while optional, offer a great adrenaline rush, especially the 8-meter jump that impresses even the most daring. Rappelling under the waterfalls is an opportunity to test your composure, but all of this takes place in a supervised and reassuring atmosphere. The outing ends beautifully under an old aqueduct bridge, surrounded by rock walls worthy of a film set.
This trail is suitable for ages 14 and up and requires a reasonable level of fitness. It’s not extreme, but it does require a certain amount of endurance, especially in hot weather.
Another gem of Corsican canyoning, the Verghellu Canyon is located in the Corte region, in the center of the island. Here, the scenery is more rugged, wilder, almost mineral. The approach walk is a little longer (around 50 minutes), but allows you to warm up while discovering unspoiled nature.
Once there, the route is varied and dynamic: natural slides, jumps, abseiling, zip line… Each stage is a surprise. The water is particularly clear, which adds to the pleasure of progressing in this preserved setting. The descent lasts approximately 2.5 hours, and leaves lasting memories, between physical effort and wonder.
This canyon is aimed at a more athletic audience, but is not reserved for experts. You must enjoy moving, climbing, swimming, and sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone.
Based in Calvi and Île-Rousse, this organization offers several trails in the region, adapted to different levels. Their team is made up of experienced guides, both reassuring and educational. The canyons of Fango, Melaghia, Dardu, and Ruda are among their offerings. The activity is accessible from the age of 8, making it a good choice for a family outing or for young athletes.
Rates start at €35 per person, which is very reasonable for a supervised activity with equipment rental. Another plus: a free shuttle service is available from Calvi or L’Île-Rousse, making planning much easier, especially on vacation.
Cime di Corsica stands out for its commitment to offering more private trails, often far from the traditional routes. Their playground extends to the Tenda and Rotondu massifs, less frequented but equally spectacular areas. This is an attractive option for those who want to avoid large groups and enjoy a more intimate experience of Corsican nature.
They also offer family-friendly itineraries, such as the Sorio Canyon or the “Vecchiu” route, suitable for ages 6 and up. A great way to introduce younger visitors to the joys of canyoning in a safe and suitable setting.
Canyoning in Haute-Corse offers a moment of freedom and complete disconnection. You forget the roads, the noise, the crowds. You move at the rhythm of the water, in a setting that sometimes seems out of this world. It’s also a bonding activity: whether you’re with friends, a partner, or family, the memories created in a canyon last a long time.
And for those who are still hesitant: you don’t need to be a great athlete. With the right coaches, the right advice, and a little enthusiasm, the experience is within reach of most people. And once you’ve tried it, it’s hard not to want to do it again.
The minimum age varies according to course and provider. For introductory descents the most accessible, such as the Gravona canyon, children can take part from the age of 7-8, as long as they can know how to swim and be comfortable in the water. Intermediate courses such as Verghellu are generally open to youngsters aged 10 and over.
For sporty canyons such as the Tavignano, the minimum age is often set at 14-16 years, due to the the physical stamina required and the technical nature of certain passages. Each service provider also assesses the child’s morphology and maturity, beyond the simple age criterion, in order to guarantee its safety all along the route.
For a canyoning session, personal equipment is minimal, as most of the technical equipment is provided by the guides. Simply bring a swimsuit to be worn under the neoprene wetsuit (avoid loose-fitting models for men, which may be uncomfortable under the wetsuit).
For the approach and return walks, lightweight light shoes are recommended, which you leave at the canyon’s starting point. If you don’t rent a neoprene booties from the service providerPlease bring used sneakers that can go in the water.
In 2025, the trend is towards specific canyoning shoes, available for hire from most service providers (approx. €5-10). Also take along a towel and dry clothes for after the activity, not forgetting ecological sun protection for when you’re out of the water.
When practised in the context of a professionally supervised outing, canyoning offers an excellent level of safety. excellent level of safetyeven for beginners. The 2024 statistics show that serious incidents are extremely rare (less than 0.01% of outings) and mainly concern unaccompanied independent riders.
The professional guides in Haute-Corse follow strict safety protocols: daily equipment checks, regular inspection of anchors, constant monitoring of weather and water conditions and hydrological conditions. They systematically adapt the route to the participants’ abilities, offering alternatives to the usual the most technical obstacles.
A detailed briefing is always given before departure, and groups are kept to a reasonable size (generally a maximum of 8 participants per guide) to ensure adequate supervision. The risk factor is therefore minimal when instructions are followed.
The canyoning season in Haute-Corse generally runs from April to October, but the optimal period is between mid-June and mid-September, when hydrological and weather conditions are most favorable.
Studies carried out in 2025 show that the months of June and September offer the best compromise between pleasant water temperature (16-20°C), suitable water levels and reasonable visitor numbers. In July and August, the water is slightly warmer, but the number of visitors is much higherrequiring earlier reservations.
For low-altitude canyons such as the Baraccithe season can start as early as April, while high-altitude canyons such as some sections of the Tavignano are only fully accessible from late May, after the the snow has melted. Please note that occasional weather conditions may temporarily affect the practicability of certain canyons, hence the importance of flexibility in your planning.
The savoir-nager is a fundamental prerequisite for canyoning, whatever the difficulty of the chosen route. This skill is essential to ensure your safety, particularly in deep pool areas where progress is made by swimming.
In 2025, no serious service provider in Haute-Corse will accept participants who can’t swim, even on the easiest courses. even on the easiest routesfor obvious safety reasons. Having said that, you don’t need to be a competitive swimmer – knowing how to stay afloat and move through the water is just as important. a few dozen meters of water is usually enough.
For people with limited water skills who can still swim, there are a number of very progressive very progressive courses such as the Cavu aquatic hike can provide a gentle introduction, with few passages that really require swimming and the constant presence of shallow areas.
La reservation for a group (large families, friends, companies) require a few specific steps to ensure an optimal experience. For groups of more than 8 people, we recommend that you contact directly service providers by telephone or email rather than via online booking platforms.
This approach makes it possible to discuss specific needs of the group and possibly organize a private outing. Service providers generally offer sliding-scale prices from 8-10 participants, with reductions of up to 15-20% off the standard price by 2025.
For large groups (over 16 people), the usual solution is to divide the participants into sub-groups. Starting with slightly staggered working hoursto preserve experience while maintaining high quality supervision.
A minimum three-week booking period is strongly recommended in high season for large groupsSome service providers require a 30% deposit to confirm a reservation.
Discover the hikes to practice in Haute-Corse !
If you love hiking, wilderness, and spectacular views, Haute-Corse is undoubtedly the destination for you. Here, between the sea and the mountains, every trail seems to tell a story, and every turn offers a new surprise. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply a lover of outdoor strolls, you’ll find what you’re looking for on this multifaceted island. With its golden beaches, mysterious forests, soaring ridges, and picturesque villages, Haute-Corse invites you on an authentic and unforgettable journey.
Let’s set off together to discover the must-see hikes in this magical region.
We can’t talk about hiking in Haute-Corse without mentioning the famous GR20. This legendary trail, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful—and most challenging—in Europe, crosses the island of Calenzana, near Calvi, to Conca, in the southeast. Over approximately 180 kilometers, it offers hikers an intense experience in the heart of raw and majestic nature.
The GR20 isn’t just a trek: it’s a true personal challenge. The trail winds through jagged ridges, deep valleys, shady forests, and lunar plateaus. At each stage, Corsica reveals a different facet of its character. You’ll hike at the foot of Monte Cinto, the island’s highest point, cross clear streams, and traverse breathtaking landscapes.
This demanding route requires good physical and mental preparation. It’s not uncommon to have to navigate steep sections where the hands are used as much as the legs. However, for those who venture out, excitement is guaranteed.
Sleeping in the GR20 refuges also allows you to meet other enthusiasts and exchange anecdotes over a hot meal, which is part of the charm of this human adventure.
Just a few kilometers from Corte, the Restonica Valley is an invitation to discovery. Here, time seems to stand still. Surrounded by towering granite cliffs and crisscrossed by a clear river, the valley is best known for its two magnificent glacial lakes: Lake Melo and Lake Capitello.
The path to Lake Melo is relatively short but requires a bit of agility, especially on some rocky sections. In summer, it’s not uncommon to encounter entire families coming to enjoy the coolness of the heights. Allow approximately two to three hours to reach the first lake, nestled at an altitude of 1,711 meters.
For the more adventurous, the walk can extend to Lake Capitello, perched at an altitude of nearly 2,000 meters. This steeper section will delight those who love challenges and breathtaking panoramas.
As a bonus, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lakes is pure bliss… provided you have the courage to face the cold!
For those who prefer to hike along the coast rather than climb the peaks, the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers’ Trail) at Cap Corse is a real favorite. For nearly 26 kilometers, from Macinaggio to Centuri, this path follows the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Along the trail, you’ll pass secret beaches, turquoise coves, and charming fishing villages where time seems to stand still. Every turn reveals a new view, and every break is an opportunity for a dip or a taste of local produce.
The hike is not technically difficult, but the distance and sun exposure make it an adventure that requires careful preparation.
Reaching the summit of Monte Cinto, at 2,706 meters, is like reaching the roof of Corsica. This climb, reserved for seasoned hikers, offers an unparalleled reward: a panoramic view of the entire island, even glimpsing the Italian coast on a clear day.
The climb requires good physical condition and some familiarity with alpine terrain. It is recommended to spend the night at the Ciottulu di i Mori refuge before tackling the final slopes to the summit.
Sunrise from the summit remains an experience forever etched in the memory.
Between Evisa and Ota, the Spelunca Gorge offers a gentle yet spectacular hike. Following an ancient paved path, you’ll walk in the shadow of steep walls and cross magnificent Genoese bridges, witnesses to a rich past.
The Porto River flows alongside you, and its natural pools invite you to take well-deserved swimming breaks. Here, nature is omnipresent, wild and bountiful.
Finally, for those dreaming of wide-open, peaceful spaces, head to Lake Nino and its famous pozzines. These marshy meadows, dotted with streams and wildflowers, create a magical landscape.
From the Poppaghia forest house, the trail leads you through a pine forest before reaching the lake’s plateau, at an altitude of 1,743 meters. There, horses, cows, and pigs roaming semi-free offer a touching spectacle.
Haute-Corse is a land of adventure, a veritable Garden of Eden for hikers seeking thrills or contemplative strolls. Between imposing mountains, secret valleys, hidden beaches, and authentic villages, each path promises discovery and wonder. Take your time, listen to the silence, breathe in the fresh air, and let yourself be charmed by this island with its strong character.
So, ready to put on your shoes and set off to conquer Haute-Corse?
The ideal time for hiking in Haute-Corse runs from mid-April to the end of October. Nevertheless, each season offers a different experience. Spring (April-June) reveals exceptional flora, with carpets of colorful flowers and pleasant temperatures.
Summer (July-August) offersaccess to high-altitude peaks and lakesThe summer months are warm and sunny, but temperatures can be very high during the day, making it necessary to hike early in the morning. Autumn (September-October) offers magnificent colors and a softness ideal for long hikes.
For 2025, note that GR20 refuges will be open from June 1 to September 30. The coastal paths are open all year round, with a preference for spring and autumn when the weather is fine. tourist numbers is lower.
Absolutely. reservation of GR20 refuges has become essential, particularly for the 2025 season, which promises to be very busy. The new online reservation system introduced by the Parc Naturel Régional de Corse now makes it possible to secure your places up to 6 months in advance.
For the high season (July-August), we recommend booking as soon as reservations open in January 2025. The refuges have limited capacity (generally between 30 and 50 places) and are often fully booked several weeks in advance.
If you plan to the entire GR20 NordIf you are interested in booking a hut, plan each stage carefully and make sure you have confirmation for all huts before starting your trek. If you can’t make a reservation, alternative solutions such as sheepfolds or or campsites in upper Corsica near certain refuges, but these options need to be anticipated.
Haute-Corse offers a variety of trails to suit all levelsincluding beginners. Several routes specifically recommended for novice hikers were marked in 2025. The customs trail at Saint-Florent offers an easy hike with little change in altitude and magnificent scenery.
Walks around Lake Melo (first part) or in the Corte region are also accessible to occasional walkers. For a successful first experience, choose marked “easy” or “very easy” trails according to local classification, plan short outings (2-3h maximum) and progress gradually.
Don’t forget that even on an easy trail, minimum minimum equipment You still need suitable footwear, plenty of water and sun protection. Local tourist offices now offer detailed information sheets for beginners’ itinerarieswith precise estimates of walking times and difficulties.
Solo hiking is possible in Haute-Corsebut requires a few extra precautions. On busy, well-marked trails such as the Sentier des Douaniers or the circuits around Corte, solo hiking generally poses no particular problem in 2025.
For the GR20 and more remote trails, however, caution is the order of the day. Always inform someone of your precise route and your estimated time of return. Take a charged cell phone with you, even if network coverage is not guaranteed everywhere.
The new satellite personal satellite personal distress beaconsavailable for hire from a number of specialist stores on the island in 2025, represent a valuable additional safety feature. If you’re hiking alone, avoid going off the beaten track, and be particularly careful of weather conditions.
On the little-frequented trailsit’s not uncommon not to see anyone for several hours, which can prove problematic in the event of an accident.
The public transport in Haute-Corse were considerably improved in 2025 to meet the needs of hikers. The “Chemins de Fer de la Corse” bus network serves many points of interest. hiking trailsThe GR20 is the most popular hiking route in France, particularly around Bastia, Corte and Calvi. For the GR20 Nord, special shuttles run between Calvi and Calenzana (start of the GR20) several times a day during the summer. the hiking season.
In Corte, seasonal seasonal shuttle services take you to the Restonica Valley parking lot, the starting point for the Melo and Capitello lakes. The new “Rando Mobility” pass launched in 2025 provides access to reduced rate to the entire network for 7 consecutive days.
For more isolated trails, carpooling between hikers is easily organized via the “Hike Together Corsica” application, which connects hikers according to their itineraries. Some accommodations also offer transportation services for their customers.
Several family outings were specially designed in 2025 to accommodate young walkers. The walk to Lake Melo (first part of the trail) is perfectly suited to children from 6-7 years able to walk for 1h30-2h. Saint-Florent’s customs path also offers an ideal option, with accessible beaches for regular swimming breaks.
In the region of Santo-Pietro-di-VenacoA lovely 4 km hike combining a pastoral environment with a mountain atmosphere is specifically recommended for families. For younger children (3-5 years), the Bergeries trail near Corte offers a short, flat trail with animals to observe.
Don’t forget that the walking pace must be adapted to children, with frequent breaks and fun activities to keep them motivated (nature observation, games, etc.). The new “Corsica Family Hike” app offers interactive trails with riddles and child-friendly information on Corsican fauna, flora and history, transforming the hike into a fun-filled experience. a real educational adventure.
Activities to practice in Haute-Corse. Haute-Corse has many activities in its region to discover with family or friends for an unforgettable vacation !
Photo gallery of activities in Haute-Corse
Video gallery of activities in Haute-Corse
Share your own adventure
“See you on the green”
In a friendly and pleasant setting, enjoy a golfing experience on the different greens of the island. Learn to play or improve your skills in one of the Corsican clubs.
“Hikes for all levels ! »
A mountain in the heart of the Mediterranean, Corsica is the dream place for hikers with its numerous peaks over 2,000 meters. Do you prefer a lake, a summit, a walk by the sea ? You will be spoiled for choice !
“Go explore the Corsican rivers”
Whether you are looking for thrills or discoveries, you will find courses adapted to your needs and very varied ! Canyoning is a fun aquatic activity, to share with family or friends !
“A thrilling sport”
Between hiking and climbing, go on an adventure on the Via Ferrata which is suitable for the whole family. Very fun, they offer fans exceptional views, with courses for beginners and experienced alike.
“In search of buried treasures”
Dive into the seabed to discover the flora and fauna among the many sites that Corsica has. Diving clubs will accompany you to explore reefs, bays and beaches as well as the marine life that inhabits them.
“Glide on the water with complete freedom”
With or without a license, with or without instructors, come and practice jet-skiing. Hikes are also offered to discover the hidden corners of the island. With family or friends, you will experience unforgettable moments !
“Guaranteed adrenaline rush”
Thrill seekers? This activity is for you! Embark on a 20-minute flight aboard an airplane, then strap yourself into your instructor’s freefall. Then, the sails open to allow you to descend, and all that’s left is to admire the scenery.
“Fly over the most beautiful sites on the island”
Go for an aerial ride in a two-seater paraglider, accompanied by a professional. Escape into the air enjoying a landscape right below your feet !
“Sensations guaranteed”
A quad hike is a good way to discover Corsica. Several courses for all levels will be offered to you by our service providers. Supervised by an instructor, you will be in groups of 2 to 6 quads. Sensations guaranteed !
“Take off”
Go aboard a boat to discover the beauty of the Corsican landscapes ! From Cap Corse to Bonifacio, or from Bastia to Porto, our service providers will welcome you to share their passions for nature and the sea in the most beautiful sites on the Isle of Beauty.
“Connected routes”
Come and try the many adventure trails in Corsica. The instructors from each park will be there to explain to you and progress in complete serenity and safety in the trees. On your harnesses !
“Discovering the Corsican coast”
Move around on the water enjoying the beauty of the Corsican coasts. All the sea journeys will leave you with a memorable memory !
“Set sail to sea !” »
Sailboat, catamaran or motorboat ? Enjoy beautiful sea trips by choosing the type of boat that suits you with or without a guide, to discover exceptional places on the Isle of Beauty.
“A real leap into the void!”
Soaring like an angel or falling backwards, enjoy a stunning experience!
“Climb to reach the peaks”
Find all the climbing sites on the island thanks to our service providers who will help you discover the best spots. As a climber, beginner or experienced, you will explore superb landscapes and experience unique sensations !
“Corsica on horseback”
Discovering Corsica on horseback has another meaning ! Accompanied by the island’s professionals, choose the diverse and varied packages offered by the equestrian centers, to satisfy your desire to escape ! Ideal for families.
“Off the beaten track”
4×4 hikes invite you to discover the Corsican landscapes, going on inaccessible roads reserved for hikers ! The proposed circuits will take you through the trails of our magnificent region.
“Fun for your vacation”
The towed buoy, a crazy activity to share with family or friends ! You will be towed by a boat which will take you into the waves ! Hang in there, it’s going to move !
“Row upright on the water”
Don’t hesitate, rent a board or take lessons with our service providers. On flat waters or on wave days, enjoy the hottest water sport on the planet !
“Fly aboard a boat”
Take off for a unique activity: a flying boat, for an unforgettable experience on the Isle of Beauty !
“Snowy Corsica”
Come in winter to discover Corsica like you’ve never seen it before ! Accompanied by our guides, set off from the island’s ski resorts to discover numerous landscapes under a white veil.
“Corsica by bike”
Explore the Corsican trails by bike to enjoy the landscapes ! By mountain bike, with electric bikes or VTC, our service providers will help you choose the bike suited to your needs.
“Discovering the fauna and flora”
Explore the different botanical gardens to observe endemic species and local flora, or discover the animal parks on Corsican territory.
“Enter Corsican history”
Visit the different museums to discover Corsican history and heritage. The island is home to prehistoric sites with a rich archaeological heritage.
“Twirl in the air”
Wakeboarding is a mix of water skiing, snowboarding and surfing. A fun activity to discover in many clubs. You can learn this discipline or practice it.
“Corsica seen from above”
Experience the feeling of freedom of flying over Corsica in a microlight, supervised by a professional. Fly over the inaccessible landscapes of the island.
“To your fish !” »
Do you want to come to Corsica for fishing ? It’s the ideal destination ! Whether you are a beginner or an expert, get on board with one of our service providers, who will be delighted to welcome you to practice this practice !
“The pedal boat is super fun”
Relax by renting a pedal boat on Corsican waters, in a natural setting. An activity to keep fit to do with family or friends, while respecting the environment.
“Propel yourself above the water”
Come and test this thruster to fly above the water. With the help of this unique aquatic invention, you will perform your most beautiful tricks, acrobatics, dives and speed !
“All types of games for your children”
Play areas for the little ones, to spend time with families.
“Relax”
Even on vacation, take the time to take care of yourself through this section, come and discover different massage and treatment providers, etc.
“To your taste buds”
Discovering Corsica also means letting yourself be tempted by these traditional dishes or according to your desires to delight your taste buds.
