Mini Island mystery

This walk begins in the island's historic capital, Corte. The rocky citadel overlooking the town is a sight not to be missed. After dropping off your luggage at the hotel, you'll have the chance to wander around the old town and explore the sights of this place steeped in history. Corte is nestled between two spectacular gorges: the Tavignano and the Restonica.

NB: If you arrive in the morning or the day before, you can take the opportunity to walk through the Tavignano valley. Following an old mule track once used by the shepherds of the isolated Niolu region, this walk takes you through some exceptional scenery. There are numerous natural pools along the way, inviting you to take a refreshing dip.

Morning transfer to the starting point of the stage. From the entrance to the Scala di Santa Regina, you'll start your walk towards the Niolu valley, following the old transhumance path that linked Calacuccia to Corte. The route through the Scala is an impressive sight, revealing gorges sculpted by the Golo. This ancestral route, once used by shepherds, takes you to the village of Corscia. The path then continues to Ponte d'Erco, before descending to Lozzi and Calacuccia.

Morning transfer to the Vergio pass. From the pass, the trail winds through the laricio pines of the Aitone forest, descending to the lush chestnut groves on the outskirts of Evisa. The views along the way are majestic, with high peaks dominating the horizon. Arriving in Evisa, at an altitude of 830 metres, you'll be greeted by a lively mountain village, surprisingly close to the sea. Known locally as ‘the pearl of the mountains’, Evisa charms with its exceptional natural setting and unspoilt heritage.

You'll reach the village of Ota, nestling beneath Capu San Pretu, via the Spelunca Gorges, which offer a breathtaking natural spectacle. Ota is a lively place, adorned with historic Genoese bridges, bright bougainvillea and lush lemon and fig trees. On the descent, the view over the Gulf of Porto is a kaleidoscope of colours, with red cliffs, deep blue sea and the imposing silhouette of the Genoese tower.