Mare e Monti 6 days with Couleur Corse

 mare e monti couleur corse

In the footsteps of the famous Mare e Monti, a reworked itinerary to enjoy exceptional sites and the Gulf of Porto. In spring, the maquis in bloom and the turquoise waters offer a landscape of dazzling colors.

“Mare e Monti” It's all in the title! This coastal trail takes you along one of Corsica's wildest coastlines, over the passes and crests of this steep terrain. Here we offer you the most beautiful stretches of this western coastline, between sea and scrub, from the summit of Capu d'Ortu to the fishing hamlet of Girolata (only accessible on foot or by sea), the Gulf of Porto (a UNESCO World Heritage site).
Whether enjoyed before or after the summer season, this “balcony” hike along the coastline sums up Corsica's other name: a mountain in the sea!

Hiking program

Day 1: Gorges de la Spelunca
Hike through the Gorges de la Spelunca, one of the “classics” of Corsican or Calanche hikes. Pass the Genoese bridge of Zaglia before arriving at our accommodation overlooking the Gulf of Porto. Night in Ota.
Duration: 4h00 / D+: +520m / D-: -490m

Day 2: Above the Gulf of Porto
Leaving the picturesque village of Ota, we follow the orange Tra Mare e Monti signposts. Then, along a balcony path overlooking Porto and its gulf, we reach the beautiful Bussaglia beach nestling at the foot of imposing red granite cliffs. In the late afternoon, we make our way back up to Serriera.
Overnight in Serriera or Bussaglia.
Duration: 6h / D+: +740m / D-: -1010m

Day 3: From beach to cove
We make our way to Partinello along the Tra Mare e Monti before turning off towards the coast. The trail follows the jagged coastline, offering plenty of opportunities for swimming.
Overnight at Gradelle or Curzu.
Duration: 4h45 / D+: +670m / D-: -760m

Day 4: Girolata via the Chemin du Facteur
After reaching the village of Osani, we enjoy the sea in an exceptional setting, before heading for Girolata via the sentier du facteur (letter carrier's path). A small village protected by its old fortress, Girolata is only accessible on foot or by boat, and is the only safe anchorage for sailors between Carghjese and Calvi!
Overnight in Girolata.
Duration: 3h45 / D+: +580m / D-: -580m

Day 5: Scandola nature reserve
We cross one of the wildest parts of Corsica. Nothing but maquis, granite and the sea accompany us throughout this stage. Often crested, the path reveals all the beauty of the landscape.
Overnight in Galeria.
6h / D+: +880m / D-: -860m

Day 6: Viewpoint over the Gulf of Galeria
Last walk above Galeria to enjoy the 360° panorama, then transfer back in the afternoon.
Duration: 3h20 / D+: +455m / D-: -455m

ACCOMMODATION : In gîte d'étape or in rooms (optional)

GUIDANCE : By a mountain leader
From 8 to 14 participants.

CARRYING: You walk with a rucksack for the day (except days 4 and 5). Luggage is carried from stage to stage, except on evening 4 in Girolata (village not accessible by road).


Level: Medium (M) - Average stage duration around 5h and average altitude difference less than 600m. Trails are not particularly difficult, but can be rough or steep on long stretches. One or two days may exceed the above criteria.

Nature of terrain: very varied, with forest and scrub trails. Some portions of the stages take place at altitude, where the trails are very steep and stony, but do not present any particular technical difficulty.

Who is this tour for? You're in good physical shape and enjoy occasional hiking (2 to 3 times a month). You're not afraid of a succession of active days or a good climb every now and then.


In July and August, it's too hot on this low-altitude itinerary, so we recommend other routes.

Benefits

- Pick-up in Ajaccio and drop-off in Calvi
- transfers
- Full board
- Supervision by a state-qualified guide
- Luggage assistance as described above
- Liability insurance

Prestations non comprises

- Room option (4 nights out of 5 on a double or triple basis): +150€ per person
- Single room option: +100€ per night per person
- Transportation to Corsica
- Cancellation and repatriation insurance
- Drinks and personal expenses

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