Paths of the Summer Pastures
This hike will lead you from the Corsican mountain to the sea by paths which were formerly for pastures.
This hike will lead you from the Corsican mountains to the sea using the paths which were previously the trails that were used for seasonal migration of livestock to summer pastures. The paths taken are the old trails which were used between the people on the coast and in the mainland from the 14th century and by shepherds moving their livestock according to the season. Mules with trunks made of pine were used for transportation of goods. For example, they carted chestnuts, cheese, cédrat lemons and olives. This route was purely for practical reasons, in those days, nobody would dream of hiking here!
Following the example of the shepherds who moved following the seasons between the high altitudes and the sea, this hike follows the Corsican valleys, from the town of Corte, the historical heart of Corsica, to Porto, a little port nestled in the gulf. Crossing diverse countryside, the paths cross exceptional natural sights, with high altitude lakes surrounded by the highest summits in Corsica. On the descent, the forest paths cross rivers and torrents that contain multiple natural swimming pools. It ends on the coast with beautiful views over Porto bay.
These are the surroundings in which, in the middle of the day, it does you good to sunbathe, swim and dream.
Program
Day 1
The trip begins at the end of the afternoon in Corte. Night spent in Corte.
Day 2
The Tavignanu valley. Following an old mule track up the river. Higher up, the gorges come closer together and the path crosses over the torrent on a pretty footbridge. Return by a different route.
- 12 km / Dénivelé : + and - 400 m / 5h
Day 3
From Albertacce to the Vergio pass (1 400 m) by a beautiful path that climbs up the Golo valley with its many natural swimming pools. Night in Vergio (hotel).
- 13 km / + 820 m and - 270 m/ 5h
Day 4
Average route: Reclimb the small Tulla valley along the GR20 path, to the foot of the islands highest summits. On the menu: sheepfolds, high mountain pastures, clear water torrents. Return to Vergio.
- 11 km / + 450 m / 5h
More demanding route: a stage of the GR20. At Bocca San Petru, there is a view over the beautiful wind worn beech trees. Next, up to lake Nino and its pools of water called pozzines. Return by the same route.
- 14 km / + and -800 m. / 7h
Day 5
From Vergio to Evisa village (850 m) passing by the magnificent Aïtone forest, with its high Laricci pine trees, natural swimming pools and waterfalls. Night in a hotel.
- Distance : 10 km / Dénivelé : -800 m and + 220m / 4h30.
Day 6
From Evisa to the Ota village (320m): descent through the Spelunca Gorges, swimming in the river under a Genovese bridge. Night in a bed and breakfast.
- 10km / + 220 et - 700 m / 4h30
Day 7
From Ota to Porto (50m): A path between the mountain tops and Porto’s gulf, the sea breeze brings the maquis aromas alive. Night in Port.
- 7km / + 350 et – 650m / 4h
Day 8
End of trip. Leave with the bus for Ajaccio. Morning arrival.
Price
€ 830 per person, reservation from 2 people minimum.
Booking from 4 to 7 persons : € 790 per pers.
From 8 to 12 pers. : € 750
More than 13 pers. : € 720
Full board (picnic at midday) : € 60 per person
Extra night in Porto : € 50 per pers. (except from the 6th to the 20th of August : € 55 per pers.)
Price Includes
- Half Board
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Accommodation
- 4 nights in a hotel
- 3 in a bed and breakfast
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Meals
Breakfast and evening meals at the bed and breakfast or hotel. However, the meal for the final evening at Porto is not included.
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Transportation
- Day 3 : from Corte to Albertacce
- Day 8 : from Porto to Ajaccio's ferry terminal
- 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 consists of a day by day itinerary, the route marked on a 25 000° map and practical information.
Price does not include
- Midday picnics, unless you have chosen the option.
- 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 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
Dates
- From 1st June to the 30th June : Every day except Sundays
- In July and August : every day except Fridays and except the 12/07, 13/08 (even so you have to pay € 35 more)
- From the 1st to the 30th September : Every day except Sundays
In April, May and October, it is cold in mountain; we advise our trips « The West Coast » et « Mare e Monti sud ».
Start and end
- Day 1 : at Corte's train station.
- Day 7 : about 10:30 at Ajaccio.
