Mare e Monti Sud
This hiking trail invites you to travel through the inland of Corsica and to discover the gulfs of Valincu and Ajaccio.
This hiking path allows you to discover the inland of Corsica and the gulfs of Valincu and Ajaccio. “A mountain in the sea” said Guy of Mauspassant when talking about the island that is nicknamed “the island of beauty”. You will not be disappointed by taking on the Mare e Monti Sud, a path that zigzags between an enchanting coastline and traditional villages perched in the mountains! The trail begins in Alta Rocca, one of the oldest populated areas in Corsica as evidenced by numerous archaeological sites.
Referred to as "Land of Lords "in the Middle Ages, the region is marked by a tragic past made of Corsican vendetta between families and resistance against Genoese power. The architecture that we discover over the trail reflects this story : villages nestled on the headlands are made of high granite houses closely packed together for protection. Religion has always been important, so there are numerous churches, chapels and convents. The path leaves the interior to zigzag along the coast. You will pass through maquis, perfumed bushes, leafy forests and grassy meadows regularly leading to large panoramas on the wild coasts of the Valinco gulf and the beaches of the Ajaccien gulf. If the contrast is sometimes striking, scenic beauty and views remains the common thread of this magical journey.
Program
Day 1
Coach transfer from Ajaccio through the St Georges pass then the gulf of Calincu above Propriano. Arrival in the typical village of Ste Lucie de Tallane, with its high granite houses organised in narrow streets. Ste Lucie de Tallane has become famous for its orbicular diorite, an extremely rare rock. Night spent in a gite.
Day 2
The hike takes place in a landscape of forests with magnificent views from the interior villages to the needles of Bavella standing out in the East. The trail reaches the village of Fozzanu famous for having inspired Mérimée the story of Colomba. Like this story, the steep streets are topped with granite houses looking strict and two beautiful Casa forte. Night in Burgo, in an hotel
- Elevation gain : + 740 yards and - -1035 yards / Time : 6h / Distance : 12.5 miles
Day 3
Continuing in a beautiful holm oak forest scattered with impressive boulders. Very beautiful panoramic views over the golf of Valincu. Night in Olmetu in hotel.
- + 850 yards and - 655 yards / 5h / 9.5 miles
Day 4
A shorter walking day allowing you to take the time to explore the little port and the beach at Porto-Pollo. The path which runs between the maquis, oak and olive trees looks over the entire gulf of Propriano. Night in a hotel by the sea.
- + 435 yards and - 765 yards / 4h30 / 9.5 miles
Day 5
Beautiful views across the Cupabia bay: a descent to the beach and then an ascent in a maquis of strawberry trees up to the village of Coti-Chivari where you will get the first views of the gulf of Ajaccio. Night in a hotel.
- + 875 yards and -360 yards/ 6h / 7.5 miles
Day 6
Passing by a route above the gulf of Ajaccio, the path rises up the Monte Tignoso before descending into a little hamlet. Next walking in the forest up to the village Bisinao : night in a bed and breakfast.
- +765 yards and - 600 yards / 5h30 / 9.5 miles
Day 7
Proceed to Porticcio, with more beautiful views of the gulf of Ajaccio. Crossing the gulf on boat to Ajaccio town centre : night in a hotel.
- +350 yards and -1040 yards / 5h / 10.5 miles
Day 8
After breakfast, it is possible to buy various local products at the little market. There is also the chance to potter round the port admiring the different sorts of boats. Finally, the tourist information offers two circuits: the first lets you discover the Genovese town, and the second the imperial town of Napoleon Bonaparte. Both are a good opportunity to meander through the streets of Ajaccio.
Price
€ 785 per person, booking from 2 people minimum.
Booking from 4 to 7 persons : € 745 per pers.
From 8 to 12 pers. : € 705
More than 13 pers. : € 675
Full board (picnic at midday) : € 60 per person
Extra night in Ajaccio : 55 €/ pers.
Price Includes
- Half Board
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Accommodation
- 5 nights in a hotel
- 1 night in a bed and breakfast
- 1 night in a “gîte d’étape” (dormitory bedrooms with 4 beds and shower room)
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Meals
Breakfast and Corsican traditional evening meals at the hotel or gite. The evening meal at Ajaccio is not included.
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Transportation
- Day 1 : from Ajaccio's ferry terminal to St Lucie de Tallane
- Day 7 : from Porticcio to Ajaccio
- Luggage transfer
- Travel notebook
You need to carry a small day sack only with a water bottle,camera, picnic and wind jacket. The main luggage will be transported by vehicle between the different accommodations. It is also important to consider that it may be necessary to carry your bags short distances at the start or end of your holiday. You will need the appropriate luggage.
You will receive this as soon as the payment is received. it includes day by day description of the route, the route map of 25 000 ° and practical information
Price does not include
- Midday picnics.
- Evening meal on the last day.
- Cancellation and health insurance are not included unless you have chosen the option.
- Unforeseen additional transfers.
- Drinks, including wine and any other personal expenses.
Please note, you will be charged for any modifications you make to the program.
Level of difficulty
The walks are on good footpaths and trails, the terrain is varied but often rocky. You need to be used to walking and take regular exercise to enjoy this holiday.
Trips 2012
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Dates
- From the 1st April to the 25th June*
- And the 1st of September to the 18th October *
* Every day except Sundays and bank holidays (9th April, 1st, 8th, 17th et 28th Mai), otherwise you must pay for a taxi.
This circuit is not suitable for the summer heat of Corsica: during the height of summer we advise our other walks « Transhumance » and « Objective 2000 ».
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Start and end
- Day 1 : 14h00 at Ajaccio's ferry terminal or 16h10 at the Ajaccio's aeroport.
- Day 8: the morning at Ajaccio.
