Corsica Walking Holiday

Travel overview

On arrival at either Bastia Airport or Calvi Airport, a transfer brings you to the historic mountain town of Corte, dramatically set among rugged peaks at the heart of the island. Once the capital of Corsica, Corte retains a strong cultural identity and a spectacular setting above the Tavignano Valley. After settling into your hotel for a two-night stay, you may wish to wander through the old streets or visit the striking hilltop citadel overlooking the town. Dinner is not included tonight, giving you the chance to sample one of Corte’s welcoming restaurants serving traditional Corsican cuisine.

3* Hotel in Corte (B&B)

Walk overview

Today’s walk explores the magnificent Tavignano Gorge, one of the island’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Following a centuries-old mule path once used by shepherds and traders, the trail contours along the dramatic granite walls of the gorge. Unlike the open alpine scenery of the nearby Restonica Valley, this route feels wild and enclosed, with towering cliffs and the sound of rushing water far below. As you venture deeper into the valley you’ll discover crystal-clear rock pools and quiet riverside spots perfect for a pause. Returning to Corte, you’ll have time to explore its historic citadel before your point-to-point adventure begins.

3* Hotel in Corte (B&B)

Walk overview

A short morning transfer brings you to the dramatic Scala di Santa Regina, where today’s walk begins. This ancient shepherds’ route once linked the remote Niolu Valley with the rest of the island. The path climbs through a spectacular granite gorge before following an airy balcony trail high above the valley floor. Along the way you’ll cross a beautiful Genoese Bridge, a reminder of Corsica’s rich past. The landscape softens as you continue through chestnut woodland and pastoral hills before descending towards Lake Calacuccia, where the peaceful mountain village of Calacuccia awaits.

2* Hotel in Calacuccia (half-board)

Tonight’s destination lies deep in Corsica’s mountainous interior at Calacuccia, a quiet village beside a lake surrounded by high peaks in the remote Niolu Valley.

You’ll normally stay in a traditional family-run property such as Grand Hôtel de la Scala. Dinner is taken in the hotel restaurant and is typically a hearty affair, often featuring Corsican specialities such as cured meats, local cheeses and regional main dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. Breakfast the following morning is continental in style and served before you continue your walk.

Walk overview

After a short transfer to the high Col de Vergio, your walk begins amid sweeping mountain scenery. Marked by an imposing statue, the pass forms the natural boundary between northern and southern Corsica. From here the trail descends through the magnificent Aïtone Forest, famous for its towering Corsican pine trees. Along the way you’ll pass the Aïtone Natural Pools, where clear mountain water cascades into inviting rock pools. The path continues through chestnut woodland before reaching the charming hillside village of Évisa, where tonight’s panoramic dinner offers unforgettable views towards the distant Mediterranean.

2* Hotel in Evisa (half-board)

Walk overview

Today’s spectacular walk descends into the dramatic Spelunca Gorge, one of Corsica’s most celebrated hiking landscapes. Zig-zagging down ancient mule tracks, you’ll soon reach the elegant Zaglia Bridge, a beautifully preserved Genoese bridge spanning the rushing river below. The trail continues high above the gorge towards the mountain village of Ota, where Mediterranean influences begin to appear. As the valley opens, views stretch towards the coast and the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Porto. Your destination is the seaside town of Porto, where you’ll stay near the marina.

3* Hôtel in Porto (B&B)

After several days in the mountains you finally reach the coast at Porto. This small harbour town sits within the spectacular Gulf of Porto, where red granite cliffs plunge into the deep blue Mediterranean.

You’ll typically stay in a comfortable hotel such as Hôtel Kallisté, conveniently located near the waterfront. The harbour area offers plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes. Breakfast is served at the hotel the following morning, usually featuring breads, pastries, fruit and coffee.

Walk overview

After breakfast, a short transfer takes you to the village of Piana, perched high above the coast. Your walk begins among the extraordinary rock formations of the Calanques de Piana, a UNESCO-listed landscape of jagged red granite pinnacles sculpted by wind and sea. Trails weave through this surreal terrain, offering breathtaking views over the Gulf of Porto. Later you return to Porto for a second night. Alternatively, enjoy a rest day with options including a boat trip to the protected Scandola Nature Reserve, a swim from the beach, or a short walk to the Genoese tower overlooking the bay.

3* Hôtel in Porto (B&B)

Walk overview

This morning a transfer takes you north to the lively coastal town of Calvi. After settling into your hotel you may choose between two scenic walks. The first climbs to the hilltop chapel of Notre‑Dame de la Serra, where sweeping views stretch across the Bay of Calvi and its mountainous backdrop. Alternatively, explore the rugged coastline of the Revellata Peninsula, where paths follow the cliffs above crystal-clear water with opportunities for a refreshing swim. Back in Calvi, you’ll have time to wander the historic citadel, browse local shops, or relax on the sandy beach.

3* Hotel in Calvi (B&B)

Your final night is spent in the lively coastal town of Calvi, one of the island’s most attractive seaside destinations. The impressive citadel overlooks a long sandy beach and a bustling marina lined with restaurants and cafés.

You’ll normally stay in a comfortable 3-star property such as Hôtel Revellata or Best Western Hotel Casa Bianca. Both are well located for exploring the town. Breakfast the next morning includes a continental buffet of pastries, breads, fruit and coffee before your onward journey.

Travel overview

After breakfast, a transfer takes you to either Calvi Airport or Bastia Airport for your onward journey.