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France Island of Corsica Hiking

Soaring Peaks, Chestnut Forests & Local Traditions

 

Join an extraordinary hiking adventure to the Mediterranean island of Corsica - a hikers' paradise. Discover the cliffs and peaks soaring above white-sand beaches, and dazzling vistas from atop those very peaks. Take in the red-granite formations of the Calanches de Piana, lush canyons, chestnut forests, and fabled mountain lakes. Set out from the port town of Porto to the tiny village of Girolata, follow a high-ridge trail, and head down to the coast to laze on sandy beaches. Along the way, enjoy authentic Corsican cuisine and stay in comfortable accommodations.

  • Tackle an easier section of Europe's most difficult trek - the famous GR20 with spectacular views

  • See the red rock formations of Calanches de Piana with their dramatic coastal location

  • Explore the village of Corte, lost in the hills, surrounded by lush valleys and mountain lakes

Contact an Expert

Arrive:

Ajaccio, Corsica/France

Depart:

Ajaccio, Corsica/France

Price: from $5,875

Duration:

8 Days

Departures:

See Dates

Group Size:

4-16 Guests

Min Age:

16 yrs

Activity:

Level 3

You should be comfortable hiking 6-7 miles per day in addition to one 12-mile day. Typical elevation gain and loss is 2,000 - 2,500 feet. Terrain is varied but sometimes may include rocky or uneven sections.
Learn more here.

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

  • Arrive in Ajaccio, Corsica

    Day 1

    Start the adventure in Ajaccio, the island's capital, and the birthplace of Napoleon. Transfer from the Ajaccio airport to the hotel, secluded along the untamed coastline. Have a briefing at 6pm, followed by a festive welcome dinner.

    Accommodation: Cala di Sole-Ajaccio, France

    A waterfront hotel with stunning views of the Gulf of Ajaccio, Cala di Sole has its own private white-sand beach, lined with chairs and umbrellas. A swimming pool, tennis courts, bowling green, and gym help guests stay active. This small family-owned property has friendly staff and simply furnished rooms featuring five-star views of the gulf.

    Meals: Dinner

  • Discover the Calanches de Piana

    Day 2

    Meet the guides in the morning and transfer to the Calanches de Piana (about 90 minutes by car) for the first hike. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these blood red pinnacles soar out of the jagged coastline, creating improbable inlets and shapes. The hiking trail meanders through the red rock, rising high above the plunging cliffs, with jaw-dropping viewpoints over the sea. Spot your home for the next three nights, the tiny port village of Porto nestled below the granite cliffs. Enjoy dinner together this evening.

    Accommodation: Les Flots Bleus-Porto, France

    A charming hotel right on the waterfront, Les Flots Bleus showcases views of the Gulf of Porto. Each room comes complete with a balcony from which to take in panoramic vistas, as well as A/C, flat-screen TVs, bathrooms, and Wi-Fi. Located in an area popular for snorkeling, the hotel has a comfortable lounge as well as mini-golf.

    Activity: 3 hours/5 miles hiking with 1,530' elevation gain & loss

    Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Explore the Village of Evisa & the Spelunca Gorge

    Day 3

    Head into the hills and enter the village of Evisa, perched high above the sea, surrounded by vast forests of chestnut and pine. Follow the deeply encased Spelunca Gorge on a centuries-old mule track, which still has remnants of its cobbled path and stone walls. Enjoy a riverside picnic and an opportunity to swim. Take in Genoese bridges, 200-year-old marvels of stone architecture, and end in the equally charming village of Ota before returning to Porto. Enjoy dinner on your own at one of the restaurants on the port.

    Accommodation: Les Flots Bleus-Porto, France

    A charming hotel right on the waterfront, Les Flots Bleus showcases views of the Gulf of Porto. Each room comes complete with a balcony from which to take in panoramic vistas, as well as A/C, flat-screen TVs, bathrooms, and Wi-Fi. Located in an area popular for snorkeling, the hotel has a comfortable lounge as well as mini-golf.

    Activity: 4 hours/5 miles hiking with 492' elevation gain & 1,968' elevation loss

    Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Reach the Spectacular Girolata Village

    Day 4

    Just north of Porto follow the Mare e Monti path that links the sea to the mountains. Take in the maquis vegetation of heather, boxwood, and Corsican pine, and descend to a secluded beach for a dip and a picnic. Continue along the Sentier du Facteur - "the mailman's path" - the one path a mailman took for 30 years to deliver the mail to the village of Girolata. Marvel at the handful of golden-stone homes huddled on a promontory above the bay. Return to Porto by boat and enjoy dinner together.

    Accommodation: Les Flots Bleus-Porto, France

    A charming hotel right on the waterfront, Les Flots Bleus showcases views of the Gulf of Porto. Each room comes complete with a balcony from which to take in panoramic vistas, as well as A/C, flat-screen TVs, bathrooms, and Wi-Fi. Located in an area popular for snorkeling, the hotel has a comfortable lounge as well as mini-golf.

    Activity: 2 hours/3 miles hiking with 350' elevation gain & 1,150' elevation loss

    Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer & 2.5-hour boat ride

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike on the Famous GR20 to Corte

    Day 5

    Get an early start and transfer to the Col de Vergio pass (60 minutes by minibus). Tackle the famous GR20 hiking path, the toughest and arguably most spectacular trail in all of Europe. Cover one of its most majestic sections, along switchbacks up to a grassy crestline with dazzling views to the sea below, and to the fairy-tale Lac de Nino Lake surrounded by deep-green grassy bogs with the backdrop of serrated summits. Continue by vehicle through canyon roads to reach the town of Corte, home for the next three nights.

    Accommodation: Dominique Colonna-Corte, France

    Blending seamlessly into the surrounding forests and cliffs above, the Dominique Colonna balances elegant, contemporary architecture and accommodations with regional charm. Swim in the gorgeous pool, sip local wines on a patio above a bustling creek, or enjoy a private massage. At the end of the day, unwind in gorgeous rooms, whose wood and stone furnishings echo the natural surroundings.

    Activity: 5.5-6 hours/12 miles hiking with 2,624' elevation gain & loss

    Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Follow the Manganello River to a Shepherd's Hut

    Day 6

    Today, begin the hike in the lost village of Canaglia, along the leisurely Mare a Mare route through the center of the island, following alongside the Manganello River. Reach a remote shepherd's hut on a clearing with views of high summits, and savor a picnic lunch featuring local cheeses and charcuterie. Hike back and return to Corte by minivan. Take the time to meander through the streets of the island's historic capital, before having dinner together in the center.

    Accommodation: Dominique Colonna-Corte, France

    Blending seamlessly into the surrounding forests and cliffs above, the Dominique Colonna balances elegant, contemporary architecture and accommodations with regional charm. Swim in the gorgeous pool, sip local wines on a patio above a bustling creek, or enjoy a private massage. At the end of the day, unwind in gorgeous rooms, whose wood and stone furnishings echo the natural surroundings.

    Activity: 3 hours/6 miles hiking with 985' elevation gain & loss

    Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike to Lac Melo

    Day 7

    Wake up before sunrise and take the minibus on a 30-minute ascent up the Restonica Valley. Hike up a rocky path to one of Corsica's most emblematic glacial lakes, Lac Melo, at 5,576 feet surrounded by imposing cliffs. Interested in some easy scrambling (with chains and ladders to assist)? Opt to continue up to Lac di Capitello, some 650-feet higher. Head back down and enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to the hotel for a free afternoon. Enjoy dinner together in town.

    Accommodation: Dominique Colonna-Corte, France

    Blending seamlessly into the surrounding forests and cliffs above, the Dominique Colonna balances elegant, contemporary architecture and accommodations with regional charm. Swim in the gorgeous pool, sip local wines on a patio above a bustling creek, or enjoy a private massage. At the end of the day, unwind in gorgeous rooms, whose wood and stone furnishings echo the natural surroundings.

    Activity: 4 hours/5 miles hiking with 1,804' elevation gain & loss

    Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Depart from Ajaccio

    Day 8

    Your trip ends after breakfast with a transfer from the hotel to the airport in Ajaccio.

    Meals: Breakfast

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France Island of Corsica Hiking Tour

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

What to Expect

 

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

MT Sobek's custom designed trip takes you to an achievable section of the GR20 trail - one of the toughest hikes in Europe - without camping or sleeping in huts.

Reason #02

Get the inside scoop on one of Europe's best hiking destinations with expert local French Corsican guides, who know the island inside out.

Reason #03

Explore Corsica's historic, cultural and urban life, breathtaking mountains, and sandy beaches, while avoiding the mass of beach tourists!

Meet your guides

Anne-Charlotte Luneau

Anne-Charlotte Luneau

"Life is too short to be bored" could be Anne-Charlotte's mantra. Her travels have taken her around the world, and she's worked several trades, from denturist to lumberjack! But the one constant has always been her love of nature. As a guide, Anne-Charlotte began along the rough trails of Corsica before favoring the rolling hills of Provence. Soft-spoken, attentive, and with a heart of gold, Anne-Charlotte will ensure your Provence experience will be a memorable one. And don't try to stump her on anything botany-related: it won't work.

Activities

Moderate to challenging hikes, scenic drives, culture tours, and tastings of local delicacies, all the while taking in the island's majestic landscapes.

Lodging

Waterfront hotels, converted historic monasteries, and riverside retreats all feature excellent service, great views, and the full spectrum of amenities.

Climate

Corsica is dry, Mediterranean, and unshaded. In the mountains it is cool with possible storms.

FAQ

Who will meet me on arrival?

You will be met by your guide(s) at the Ajaccio airport upon your arrival.

What's the best way to get to Corsica by plane from mainland France?

You can fly into the Ajaccio airport (AJA), where the trip starts, from the Paris Orly airport (ORY), Charles de Gaulle airport (CDG), Nice airport (NCE), or Marseille airport (MRS).

What's the best way to get to Corsica by boat?

You can take a ferry from Nice to Ajaccio, where the trip starts. You can see schedule and book tickets at Corsica Ferries HERE.

Are there swimming pools at the hotels on this trip?

There is only 1 hotel on this trip that has a swimming pool, the 1st night's hotel - Cala di Sole. However, on nights 2, 3 and 4, our hotel is located directly on the beach.

Can I wear trail shoes/cross training shoes on this trip?

A good trail shoe with a low ankle is acceptable on this trip. Please make sure your hiking shoes have a good lug sole.

corte village - France Island of Corsica Hiking Tour
calanches de piana - France Island of Corsica Hiking Tour
Sentier du Facteur - France Island of Corsica Hiking Tour
restonica stream - France Island of Corsica Hiking Tour
doorway view - France Island of Corsica Hiking Tour
lac melo - France Island of Corsica Hiking Tour
church - France Island of Corsica Hiking Tour

Reviews from Trustpilot


Such a unique experience! Our professional guides Alex and Petru energetically blended hiking, history, and culture to create a memorable and enjoyable trip. Corsica is beautiful on its own but the MT Sobek experience was world-class.

Charles Bobbish
MT Sobek Guest


Excellent itinerary and accommodations. The 2 guides were experts in geology, history, plants and economy. They personally prepared our lunch every day. A truly superb trip.

Ms. Don
MT Sobek Guest

Trustpilot
  • 2022
  • Go Private
  • Go Custom

2022

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • Sep 12 - 19, 2022
    $6,025 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,200 single supplement
    AvailableConfirmed
    Book This Date
  • Oct 03 - 10, 2022
    $5,875 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,200 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Private

Go Private

Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Choose from the selection of dates below for your group or if your preferred date is not available, we'll create a departure just for you.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Private Trip Pricing:

2022 Pricing

4 to 5 guests from $6,285 per person double occupancy

6 to 7 guests from $6,075 per person double occupancy

8 to 9 guests from $5,975 per person double occupancy

Additional Costs:

Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Make Your Own Dates in These Months

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure

Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

Start Planning

Inspiration to Explore

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