This trek begins in Corte, located in the heart of Corsica, crossing the region of Niolu with its pretty villages. Your trail takes you through stunning scenery of Scala Santa Regina Gorge and the pine forest of Verghio.
- Rewarding walks across the island
- Impressive mountainscapes
- Trek through historic valleys & forests
- Peaceful hillside villages
- Sparkling sea & rugged coastline
There are plenty of opportunities to stop on route and take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear rock pools and paddle in the mountain rivers and Radule Waterfall.
The trail passes through Spelunca Gorge and its famous Genoeses bridges as you head down to Porto and the marina. The following morning is free for you to explore Porto, or Calanches de Piana and Scandola Nature Reserve, where the stunning red sandstone plunges into the crystal clear waters and where dolphins can be spotted. Finally, follow the coastal trail inland to Piana.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1: Fly to Ajaccio
Arrive into Ajaccio and make your own way to the hotel in Corte. If time allows the afternoon can be spent exploring the village or the nearby gorges of Tavignano or Restonica.
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Day 2: Travel through the valleys to Calacuccia
Transfer to the Niolu ‘La Scala di Santa Regina’, this valley is of great historical importance as it was used in the past by the shepherds leading their herds in and out of the Niolu Valley. It winds impressively through granite cliffs, along a superb balcony path to the Erco Genoese Bridge, before descending to the village of Calacuccia.
Walking distance: 13 km | Ascent: 700 m | Descent: 340 m
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Day 3: Cross the Col de Vergio to Evisa
Spend your day at your own pace, either unwinding in peaceful surroundings or venturing out to explore the stunning Mare e Monti trail. This scenic hike weaves through chestnut forests and vibrant Mediterranean vegetation, offering breathtaking views and serene nature.
Walking distance: 9 km | Ascent: 300 m | Descent: 300 m
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Day 4: Villages of Tassu & Marignana
From Calacuccia cross the village of Albertacce and follow the trail past an old chestnut mill which winds its way up through beautiful forest.
Walking distance: 17 km | Ascent: 700 m | Descent: 340 m
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Day 5: Travel through the Spelunca Gorge
From Evisa you drop down through the Spelunca Gorge on the path as it zigzags back and forth. You follow the torrent to a Genoese bridge where you walk up towards the village of Ota. This afternoon, your route heads swiftly down to the coast, and the Gulf of Porto.
Walking distance: 14 km | Ascent: 320 m | Descent: 1,170 m
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Day 6: Porto to Piana
Your hike takes the coastal trail leading you inland to Piana. The path you follow gives amazing views of the sea, as well as splendid views of the Gulf of Porto with its indented rugged coastline and many creeks.
Walking distance: 12 km | Ascent: 520 m | Descent: 70 m
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Day 7: Travel to Ajaccio, afternoon at leisure
Take the bus to Ajaccio (payable locally) and spend your free time relaxing and exploring Ajaccio, the birth place of Napoleon. Wander through the Old Town and mingle with the locals in the market.
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Day 8: Depart Ajaccio
Your trip finishes at your hotel.
Price and Other Information
- Duration and price excluding international flights: 8 days from £929 per person
- Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 8 days from £1,289 per person
- Single room supplement: On request
- Walking grade: Moderate to Demanding
- Guiding: Self-Guided
- Max alt: 1,477m
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When to go: View Dates & Prices
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Route map:
View map
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What’s included
- Hotels x 7 nights
- 7 breakfasts & 3 dinners
- Luggage transfers
Next Steps
Dates & Prices
Choose your preferred departure date from the 3 options below, then make a no obligation booking request, or enquire if you would like to ask us a question.
| Year | Daily Departures† | Price From (Exc. Flights) | Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| All prices are per person. † Daily departures subject to availability. | |||
| 2026 | From 1 Apr to 30 Jun | £929 | Book or Enquire |
| 2026 | From 1 Jul to 30 Sep | £989 | Book or Enquire |
| 2026 | From 1 Oct to 31 Oct | £929 | Book or Enquire |
If you can’t see the holiday or departure date that you are looking for please contact us. We may be in the process of finalising further departures and are often able to arrange a holiday for you according to your own requirements.