Wonderful walking that offers both mountain and coastal scenery. This week’s walking packs a lot in and offers some wonderful contrasts. You can expect rugged mountains, scented pine tree forests, deep gorges and the exceptional western coastline. The walking starts at the Scala di Santa Regina, an old mule path that leads into the central valley, the Niolu. This is the real heart of the island. You walk through beautiful forests with tumbling mountain torrents and waterfalls, clear natural rock pools with sun-baked rocks. Once on the west coast you can enjoy small mountain villages, bright bougainvillea, lemon and olive groves. The hotel we have chosen in Piana is the perfect setting to enjoy the red sea cliffs and sea views.

Day 1
There is the option of a ridge walk that leads up behind the town and offers wonderful views of the coastline and the gulf.
from 6km to 11km, from 2h00 to 4h00 , +140m to +340m, -140m to -340m.
Arrive in Ajaccio and check into your hotel. Time to explore the town, the ambiance is Mediterranean and vibrant.

Day 2
An early morning transfer from Ajaccio to Corte, either by train or minibus. The walk starts at the Scala di Santa Regina.
An ancient trail that was used by shepherds leading their herds in and out of the Niolu valley. It winds through a decor of granite cliffs to the highest villages in Corsica.
10km, 4h00, +700m, -340m.

Day 3
From the auberge, a short transfer will drop you off in the forest. You walk up through pine trees and silver birches to the famous Col de Vergio. Once across the col there are views of the jagged western coastline. The trail winds through scented maquis, past natural rock pools, down through the chestnut woods to Evisa, a charming village also known as ‘the pearl of the mountains.’
13km, 6h00, +600m, -750m.

Day 4
Setting out from Evisa village, a short walk leads to the neighbouring village of Cristinacce. An old village to village trail leads to the abandoned hamlet of Tassu and the village of Marignana. This is a wonderful loop passing through some really rural Corsican villages and some luxuriant fragrant vegetation.
9km, 4h30, +300m, -300m.

Day 5
Spectacular sights all day as you leave the village and descend into the famous Spelunca Gorge. The path zig-zags back and forth leading into the depths. As you approach the next village braying donkeys, locals working in their gardens, bright bougainvillaea, lemon and fig trees all add to the colour.
14km, 6h00, +320m, -1170m.

Day 6
With just 4h30 walking today you may choose to spend your morning in Porto, you might want to spend some time at the beach and enjoy some sea activities. A small path pulls up from the beach and leads to the Calanche de Piana, astonishing rock formations and superb sea views over the entire bay.
12km, 5h00, +520m, -140m.

Day 7
We will communicate the time of the public bus back to Ajaccio when you reserve. The time changes during the season. You may have time to walk down to the small cove of Ficaghiola for a swim.
The cove of Ficaghjola is a small sandy creek. With its white sand and high mountains it is very picturesque. It is a favourite night stop for passing sailing boats who like to drop anchor.
5km there and 5km back, about 1h30 one way, +450m, -450m.

Day 8
End of holiday in Ajaccio.

Start
At your first hotel in Ajaccio.
End
At your hotel in Ajaccio after breakfast.
How to get there
Ajaccio airport or port.
Accommodation
In twin, double or single rooms. Good comfortable hotels with character.
Number of people
From 2
Level of difficulty
The walks are on good footpaths and trails, the terrain is varied but often rocky. You need to be used to walking all day and take regular exercise to enjoy this holiday. Moderate with strenuous sections.
Guide
Self-guided walking.
Carrying
You need to carry a small day sack only with a water bottle, camera, picnic and windproof jacket. The main luggage will be transported by vehicle between the different accommodations. It is also important to consider that it may be necessary to carry your bags short distances at the start or end of your holiday. You will need the appropriate luggage (please contact us for details).
Price includes
Half board accommodation, (no evening meal on days 1 and 7) all internal transfers except the return Piana to Ajaccio on day 7, baggage transfers between hotels, the dossier containing your maps, route notes and all necessary details needed for your holiday.
Price does not include
Return Piana to Ajaccio on day 7 and unscheduled transfers, drinks, picnics, extra activities, holiday insurance and evening meals on the first and last day.

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