Crossing Corsica

Crossing Corsica

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8 Days From

$1420

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Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Corsica with the "Crossing Corsica" tour. This self-guided walking holiday offers a unique opportunity to explore the island's stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and charming villages steeped in centuries-old traditions. Begin your adventure in the historic town of Corte and traverse dramatic gorges, ancient shepherd paths, and lush forests. Marvel at the rose-hued Calanques of Piana and enjoy the warm hospitality of the local people. Accommodations include comfortable 3-star hotels and a mountain lodge, ensuring a restful stay amidst breathtaking scenery. With luggage transfers and a digital information pack provided, you can focus on the beauty and culture of Corsica. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Experiencing the stunning landscape and diverse flora and fauna

  • Exploring small villages where traditions are practiced from centuries past

  • Viewing the rose hued Calanques of Piana

  • Delighting in the warm hospitality of the local people

  • Walking through the dramatic Scala Santa Regina Gorge

  • Swimming in natural pools and beneath beautiful waterfalls

  • Exploring the UNESCO listed Scandola Peninsula

  • Visiting the historic heart of Ajaccio and the home of Napoleon

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive Corte

Location: Corte

Accommodation Name: Hotel

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. ...more ...less

Day 2 : Transfer To Scala Santa Regina Gorge And Commence Walk (5Hrs)

Location: Corsica

Accommodation Name: Hotel by Calacuccia Lake

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

Day 3 : Walk To The Radule Waterfall And Shepherd House (6-7Hrs)

Location: Niello

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Verghio

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 4 : To Evisa, Opportunities To Bathe Beneath Beautiful Waterfalls (4Hrs)

Location: Evisa

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Evisa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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

Day 5 : Descend Through Gorges, Overnight In Porto (5.5Hrs)

Paul Allen

Location: Porto

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Porto

Meals Included: Breakfast

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/2355ftOption 2 - 16km/9.94mi, + 753m/2470ft, - 1071m/3513ft

Day 6 : Rest Day In Porto Or Walk To Piana (4 Hrs)

Location: Porto

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Porto

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

Day 7 : Local Bus To Ajaccio, Rest Of The Day At Leisure To Explore

Location: Ajaccio

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Ajaccio

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 31 August - a taxi would be required - additional cost applies). From 1 September until 30 June there is one bus in the morning (8:05am) on weekdays only, 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

Day 8 : Trip Concludes After Breakfast

Location: Ajaccio

Meals Included: Breakfast

The trip concludes this morning after breakfast.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    6 nights mainly 3 star hotels

  • 7 breakfasts, 1 picnic lunch, 2 dinners - breakfast will usually be continental style and consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea and juices. Dinners will vary according to the fresh produce available but may be quite limited and repetitive in the mountains.

  • 5 nights in 3 star hotels, 1 night 2 star hotel on a twin share basis with private facilities, 1 night comfortable mountain lodge twin share also with private facilities.

  • Luggage transfers - one piece of max 20kg per person

  • Digital information pack - smartphone app with maps and route book

  • Transfer from Corté to start of walk on day 2 and from Ajaccio coach station to the hotel on day 7

  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Corte and from Ajaccio

  • Meals not listed as included, drinks

  • Travel insurance - mandatory

  • Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday

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What's Not Included

  • Travel

    Travel to Corte and from Ajaccio.

  • Meals and Drinks

    Meals not listed as included, drinks.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance - mandatory.

  • Tour Guide

    Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday.

  • Single Room Supplement

    A supplement will apply if you book a single room.

  • Unlisted Transfers

    Transfers not listed as included.

  • Bus Transfer from Porto to Ajaccio

    Bus transfer from Porto to Ajaccio on day 7, paid locally (allow EUR12) - does not operate on Sundays or public holidays. Travel on Sundays and public holidays is by taxi only and costs approx. EUR300.

  • Bad Weather Arrangements

    Transfers and alternative accommodation which may be required in the event of bad weather.

  • Luggage Storage and Parking

    Storage of excess luggage and parking.

  • Hotel Taxes

    Hotel taxes if applicable – payable directly to the hotel.

  • Personal Items

    Items of a personal nature.

  • Unlisted Meals and Drinks

    Dinner except as noted, lunch except on day 4 (other days you can buy at the gites or supplies from the village store) and drinks.

Accommodation

6 nights mainly 3 star hotels. During the trip you will be accommodated at a range of mainly 3 star hotels. In Corte and Calacuccia the 3 star hotels are centrally located, clean and comfortable. On the GR20 (Verghio) we use a comfortable but basic ski lodge with panoramic views. There is no wifi at this hotel. In Evisa, it's a basic hotel with outstanding views from the dining area and many of the rooms. The hotel has a pool and is located about 500m from the town centre. In Porto, the 3 star hotel we use is comfortable with a lovely pool and nice breakfast area. The hotel is located about 800m from the port. Finally, the three star hotel in Ajaccio has an ideal location in the heart of town and in walking distance to the city's beaches and port. There is a lift and free wifi in the rooms. ...more ...less

Grading

GRADE 3 - This is a self-guided walk with average daily stages of 4 to 6 hours over mountainous and at times rugged terrain. The approximate walking times are listed for each stage, bear in mind these are walking times only and do not include breaks for lunch and rest stops. The trip is graded moderate as the paths although well defined and clearly marked, have some steep sections on sometimes loose and rocky ground and through scrubland. There are lots of ups and downs. A good level of fitness is required. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise - swimming, cycling, jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure. ...more ...less

What You Carry

As the walks are fully supported you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements including wet weather gear, lunch supplies, water bottle, warm top, phone etc

Mode of Transport

The tour includes transfers from Corté to the start of the walk on day 2 and from Ajaccio coach station to the hotel on day 7. A local bus from Porto to Ajaccio on day 7 is also included, with tickets purchased from the driver. Note that buses do not operate on Sundays and public holidays except from 1 July to 31 August. ...more ...less

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    You will be accommodated in mainly 3-star hotels, with one night in a 2-star hotel and one night in a comfortable mountain lodge. The hotels are centrally located, clean, and comfortable, with some offering amenities like pools and panoramic views. Note that the mountain lodge does not have WiFi. ...more ...less

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 1 picnic lunch, and 2 dinners. Breakfasts are usually continental style, and dinners will vary according to the fresh produce available but may be limited and repetitive in the mountains.

  • Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?

    Yes, luggage transfers are included. Each person is allowed one piece of luggage with a maximum weight of 15kg.

  • What kind of support is available during the tour?

    This is a self-guided walking holiday, but you will have access to a digital information pack with maps and a route book, as well as an emergency hotline.

  • What should I carry during the walks?

    As the walks are fully supported, you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements, including wet weather gear, lunch supplies, a water bottle, a warm top, and a phone.

  • What is the difficulty level of the tour?

    The tour is graded as moderate. The paths are well-defined and clearly marked but have some steep sections on sometimes loose and rocky ground. A good level of fitness is required.

  • Are there any opportunities for swimming during the tour?

    Yes, there are numerous opportunities to swim in natural pools and waterfalls along the route, especially on days 3 and 4.

  • What happens if the weather is bad?

    Transfers and alternative accommodation may be required in the event of bad weather, but these are not included in the tour package.

  • Is travel insurance required for this tour?

    Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for this tour.

  • Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?

    Yes, additional costs include meals not listed as included, drinks, bus transfers not listed as included, travel insurance, a supplement for single rooms, and hotel taxes if applicable.

  • How fit do I have to be?

    Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.

  • What happens if something goes wrong?

    On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.

  • I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?

    Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

J. Fowler(Fitzroy, Australia)  

Crossing Corsica

21 Jun 2023

Great trip, gps map was fantastic, very accurate.

P. Lehtonen-Davies(Newport, Australia)  

Crossing Corsica

20 Jun 2023

Great walk, very well organised, good hotels. Some instructions a bit confusing but map was easy to follow.

J. Ellis(Highton)  

Crossing Corsica

1 Jun 2022

We really enjoyed our UTracks Crossing Corsica walk. UTracks were great to deal with prior to the trip and the walk itself was stunning. Fabulous scenery, lovely small villages and friendly people. Accommodation and meals in 2 and 3 star hotels were very good. This is not an easy walk, so you it would be good to be made aware that a lot of the walk is on loose rocks and is slow going. A fabulous trip in a beautiful country! ...more ...less

J. Cochrane(Albany, Australia)  

Crossing Corsica

8 Oct 2024

We enjoyed the walk overall, unfortunately due to previous flood damage we were unable to walk the spectacular section through the Spelunca Gorges. The trip had some marvellous sections through mixed forests and over mountainous country with superb views.

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Saturday - Saturday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 12, 2025
$1420 (USD)

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Crossing Corsica

8 Days Starting in Corte, France and ending in Ajaccio, France

Visiting: Corte, Corsica, Niello, Evisa, Porto, Ajaccio

Tour operator:

UTracks

Tour code:

CCP

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

moderate

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Swimming

From: $1420 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 22-Feb-2025 but subject to change.