Hiking in Haute-Corse

La Haute-Corseis a paradise for hikers, offering an exceptional natural spectacle of crystal-clear seas and majestic mountains. This territory, characterized by its diversity of landscapesoffers trails to suit all levels, from the occasional walker to experienced hikers.

In 2025, the region continues to attract nature enthusiasts thanks to its emblematic itineraries, breathtaking panoramas and unspoilt heritage. preserved heritage. Discover our complete guide to exploring this jewel of the Mediterranean on foot, breathe in the pure Corsican mountain air and let yourself be seduced by the scents of the maquis.

The richness of Haute-Corse’s landscapes is reflected in the exceptional diversity exceptional diversity of trails that wind through its different regions. From jagged coastlines to towering peaks, each itinerary reveals a unique facet of this island of beauty.

Le Sentier des Douaniers : Between Sea and History

The Sentier des Douaniers de Saint-Florent is one of our most popular coastal walks. of Haute-Corse. This historic path, once used by customs officers to keep an eye on the coast, today offers a peaceful stroll through fragrant scrubland and secret coves with white sandy beaches.

Leaving from the charming port of Saint-Florentthe trail takes you through breathtaking breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes. At every turn, new perspectives open up on the turquoise gulfthe Nebbiu mountains and the Agriates desert. This particularly accessible hike is suitable for walkers of all levels.

It should be noted that the best times to hike this trail are in the spring and autumn 2025It’s the ideal time to visit, when temperatures are moderate and the vegetation is in full bloom. What’s more, there are plenty of opportunities to bathe in the crystal-clear waters and relax on the uncrowded beaches.

The fact is that this trail perfectly combines physical activity, historical discovery and swimming breaks, making it a must for anyone staying in the region. a must for anyone staying in the region..

The Restonica Valley: a natural jewel of the interior

Located near Corte, the Restonica Valley is a true paradise for hikers in search of unspoilt nature. This glacial valley, sculpted by the tumultuous waters of the torrent which gives it its name, is home to trails leading to exceptional high-altitude lakes.

The Lake Melois an ideal destination for families and hikers of all levels. The gradual ascent through a captivating mountain landscape is punctuated by refreshing waterfalls and pine forests. Once you’ve reached this glacial lakenestled in the shadow of towering peaks, you’ll be rewarded by the tranquility of its crystal-clear waters.

For more experienced hikers, the continuation towards Capitello lakethe deepest on the island, is a further challenge. Accessible from Lake Melo, the path to Lake Capitello is steeper and requires good physical condition. This climb comes to life in a high mountain settingwith spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valley below.

These two lakes, true jewels of the Corsican mountains, are among the most photographed most photographed natural sites on the island.. Their waters, with their varying hues depending on the light, create natural tableaux of striking beauty.

Cap Corse: Hiking Between Sky and Sea

The Cape CorsicaThis peninsula, stretching northwards, offers unique hiking opportunities, where the marine horizon mingles with steep relief. The region’s trails reveal the wild beauty of Haute-Corsewith coastal paths offering spectacular views of cliffs plunging into the sea.

The Sentier des Douaniers du Cap Corse offers an immersive experience in the heart of unspoilt nature. Starting out from the picturesque village of Macinaggio, this trail reveals the rugged beauty of the Cape, with its secret coves, sheer cliffs and its dense vegetation. Along the way, hikers discover Genoese towers, vestiges of the days when privateers plied the Mediterranean.

On clear days in 2025, you’ll be able to see the islands of the Tuscan archipelago the islands of the Tuscan archipelago and the silhouette of the island of Elba on the horizon. These panoramic views are one of the great rewards of this hike, which immerses you in Corsica’s maritime history.

In addition, the perched villages dotting Cap Corse, such as Nonza or CenturiThese are ideal places to stop off for a bite to eat and discover the local architectural heritage. These stops also allow you to appreciate Corsican gastronomyrich in Mediterranean flavours.

The GR20 is unanimously recognized as one of Europe’s most challenging long-distance hiking trails. Its northern section, which crosses Haute-Corse, is particularly renowned for its varied terrain and its breathtaking panoramas.

A physical and mental adventure

Considered one of long-distance hiking trails the most demanding in Europe, the northern part of the GR20 crosses Haute-Corse, offering a natural spectacle of unspoiled beauty. From Calenzana to Vizzavonaexperienced hikers are challenged by steep trails, airy ridges and passages that sometimes require the use of the hands.

Each stage reveals grandiose panoramas of deep valleys, laricio pine forests and crystal-clear lakes. crystalline high-altitude lakes. This adventure in the heart of Corsica’s mountains represents a quest to surpass oneself and commune with nature.

Data for 2025 show that the cumulative ascent on this northern section can reach more than 10,000 metersequivalent to climbing Everest from sea level! For this reason, adequate physical preparation is essential before embarking on this adventure.

That said, the refuges that line the the GR20 are convivial places where hikers from all over the world gather to share their stories and their conquest of the mythical GR20.

Northern landmarks

The northern route of the GR20 is divided into several stages, each with its own challenges and rewards. Notable sections include the stretch between the Petra Piana and Tattone refugewhich offers a rare opportunity for an almost continuous descent.

This 14-kilometre, five-hour section five-hour walk takes in a variety of landscapes: Waterfalls, forests and rivers punctuate your progress. You’ll pass the Bergeries de Tolla, small stone huts offering food and drink to hikers. Arrival in the town of Tattone allows you to regain some well-earned strength.

Another highlight is the stretch between the refuge d’Usciolu and the refuge d’Asinauwhich includes a passage over ridges with breathtaking views of the red Aiguilles de Bavella. This section of approx. 16 kilometers is less technical than others, but nevertheless requires good stamina.

Despite the GR20’s demanding nature, the beauty of the landscape the effort involved. The sense of accomplishment felt at each stage helps to make this tour a real success. an unforgettable experience.

Preparing for the GR20 Challenge

Starting out on the GR20 Nord is not something you can improvise. A careful preparation is necessary to enjoy this adventure to the full without risking your safety.

When it comes to equipment, opt for lightness without compromising the essentials. Every gram counts when you’re tackling steep gradients day after day. In 2025, the new technical materials considerably reduce bag weight without sacrificing comfort or safety.

Physical training should begin several months before the start. Regular outings with ascents and descents and carrying loads are effective ways of preparing the body for the demands of the GR20. Exercises to muscle strengthening targeting the legs and back are also recommended.

Please note that stage planning must take into account your level of fitness, weather conditions and hut availability.. In high season 2025, we strongly advise you to book your hut places several months in advance.

Haute-Corse is not just for experienced hikers. There are many accessible trails allow families to discover the region’s natural beauty at their own pace.

Gentle walks around Corte

The Corte region, located in the heart of Haute-Corseoffers several must-do itineraries perfectly suited to families with children. These routes offer an excellent compromise between accessibility discovery of varied landscapes.

The hike to the Arche de Cortea granite sculpture at an altitude of 1,500 metres overlooking the Tavignano valley, can be adapted for families by stopping before the the more technical sections. The first sections of the trail are accessible and already offer magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.

For an even easier walk, the Mezzaniva Mezzaniva sheepfolds offers an immersion into the Corsican pastoral environment. This moderately demanding walk allows you to observe the local flora and fauna while discovering the traditional way of life of Corsican shepherds.

What’s more, these routes often offer watering holes where children can cool off on hot summer days. These breaks are invaluable for keeping children motivated. youngest walkers.

Discovering heritage through hiking

The trails of Haute-Corse are also gateways to the region’s rich rich historical and cultural heritage of the island. Several itineraries combine physical activity with cultural discoveries.

Around San-Gavino-di-FiumorboA hike leads to the Buja waterfall (Piscia di a Bughja), one of Corsica’s highest at 100 metres. The trail passes through areas that have been inhabited for centuries, offering a glimpse of traditional corsican habitat. At the foot of the waterfall is a basin where you can cool off.

The paths around Lama are also a good choice for families interested in heritage. These marked trails allow you to explore ancient villages and discover relics the region’s past.

It is important to emphasize that these cultural walks cultural nature are best accompanied by child-friendly explanations. In 2025, a number of mobile applications will offer interactive tours specially designed to make these discoveries more accessible to children. fun and educational.

Hiking in Haute-Corse requires adequate preparation, both in terms of equipment and planning. Here are the essential elements for a successful experience.

Indispensable equipment for hikers

To make the most of Haute-Corse trails in 2025The right equipment is essential. Here’s what you shouldn’t overlook:

• hiking boots with high uppers, offering good ankle support on rocky terrain;
• a backpack with the right capacity the duration of your outingwith rain protection;
• technical clothing that wicks away perspiration, as well as extra layers to cope with temperature variations.

Equipment should be chosen according to the type of tour envisaged. For a day outing on coastal trails, a small bag with water and a few snacks will suffice. On the other hand, for several days on the GR20a more complete set of equipment becomes necessary.

Visit new technologies available in 2025 make hiking much easier. Specialized GPS applications make it possible to follow routes precisely, even offline. Some models of connected watches now include localized weather alertsparticularly useful in mountainous areas where conditions can change rapidly.

As far as hydration is concerned, summer temperatures in Haute-Corse can be very high. Allow at least 1.5 liters of water per person for a 3-hour hike, more if temperatures exceed 30°C.

Safety and Good Practices

Mountain safety remains an absolute top priority for all hikers. In 2025, the Corsican authorities strengthened information and rescue systems, but the individual responsibility remains essential.

Before you leave, always inform someone you trust your itinerary and estimated time of return. The mountainous areas of Haute-Corse can be very demanding. zones without network coveragemaking distress calls impossible.

It has to be said that weather conditions in the mountains can change very quickly. Always check the weather forecast before setting off, and don’t hesitate to postpone your hike in the event of unfavorable forecasts. Summer thunderstorms can be particularly violent and dangerous at higher altitudes.

Respect for the environment is also a crucial aspect of responsible hiking. As a temporary visitors of these natural spaces, we have a duty to preserve them:

• take back all your waste, including biodegradables which can take years to decompose in the mountains;
• Stay on marked trails to avoid erosion and disturb local wildlife;
• respect the regulations of the natural parks and reserves you pass through.