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Top 5 best mountain lakes in Corsica to explore with your family New
©ADOBE STOCK
1. Lake Crena (Creno) : a hidden treasure in the heart of the Corsican mountains
In the Monte Rotondu massif, at an altitude of 1,310 meters, Lake Crena (Creno) is accessible by hiking. The only mountain lake with a forest atmosphere, it is surrounded by laricio pines, one of the symbols of Corsica. Colorful water lilies and fish, salamanders, Corsican nuthatches, and dragonflies populate its waters. To protect its biodiversity, swimming is prohibited.
Corsican water lilies, a natural spectacle not to be missed.
The water lilies begin to bloom in June. Their red and white colors contrast with the deep blue of the Corsican lake. For more information on the best hiking trails to the lakes, please contact local tourist offices, such as Ouest Corsica or Corsica Aventure, or tourism professionals.
It is also recommended that you avoid approaching or feeding the pigs so that everyone can enjoy their visit in peace.
Accessibility: from Soccia.
Level of difficulty: easy hike, despite a 300-meter elevation gain. Allow about 2 hours for the round trip.
Activities: walk around the lake, picnic on the banks, nature observation.
2. Lake Todda (Tolla) : mirror-like waters and protected nature
Lake and village nestled in the heart of the Corsican mountains ©ADOBE STOCK
At an altitude of 552 meters, Lake Todda offers panoramic views surrounded by mountains. Its calm waters are ideal for swimming and water sports.
From May to September, you can rent paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats on site. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy the shade of century-old walnut and chestnut trees along the lake's shores. With an area of 5 km², it offers many secluded spots for a family picnic.
Accessibility: upstream from the village of Todda, east of Aiacciu.
Level of difficulty: lake accessible by car, moderate hike along the lake (8.5 km distance, 600 meters elevation gain, about 4 hours of walking).
Activities: swimming, fishing, games for children, hiking around the lake, pedal boats and kayaks available for rent.
3. Lake Melu : a corsican jewel in the GR20 trail
High-altitude lake nestled in the Corsican mountains ©ADOBE STOCK
At an altitude of 1,711 meters, in the Restonica Valley, lies Lake Melu . This apple-shaped glacial lake surrounded by steep cliffs is frozen for six months of the year. A protected natural site, Corsican mouflons roam among its rugged mountains.
Accessibility: from the Grotelle sheepfold, near the town of Corti.
Level of difficulty: moderate hike, allow 1 hour. For more experienced hikers, take the GR20 trail with a descent from the legendary Capitellu breach.
Activities: hiking, picnicking, nature watching.
4. Lake Ninu : a stroll among the pozzine
Located on the vast Camputile plateau, Lake Ninu is surrounded by pozzine. These peat bogs, endemic to the Corsica Regional Nature Park, play an essential role in preserving biodiversity. Many plant and animal species find refuge here, such as the Corsican salamander and the macrostigma trout. There are many hygrophilous plant species here, including grasses, sedges, snow daisies, and Corsican butterwort.
The pozzine are particularly fragile areas and must not be walked on under any circumstances. To preserve their natural balance, it is essential to stay on the marked trails and to behave in an environmentally friendly manner.
Did you know?
All of Corsica's large mountain lakes are part of protected areas (natural parks, Natura 2000 sites, ZNIEFF sites, listed sites, etc.). Their classification depends on the presence of endemic species and the rarity of their habitats.
Accessibility: from the Poppaghia forest house, Albertacce.
Level of difficulty: moderate hike, allow 5 hours, 9 km round trip, 730 m total elevation gain. Easier access is available for hikers from the Verghju (Vergio) ski resort or from the village of Evisa.
Activities: hiking, nature watching, exploring the pozzine.
5. Lake Bettaniella : serenity in the heart of the corsican mountains
Mountain lake in the heart of the Corsican peaks ©ADOBE STOCK
The Lac de Bettaniella (sometimes called Lac de Rotondu) is the largest natural lake in Corsica and offers numerous hiking trails. Nestled at an altitude of 2,100 meters at the foot of the imposing Monte Rotondu (2,622 m), this glacial giant covers seven hectares. Frozen for nearly seven months, the waters of this Corsican lake reflect the peaks. Rock and ice combine to create a breathtaking landscape.
You may be lucky enough to spot a yellow-billed chough, a bearded vulture, or a griffon vulture.
Accessibility: from the Cervello forest, south of Venacu.
Level of difficulty: difficult hike, allow 9 hours, 18 km, 1,720 m of cumulative elevation gain.
Activities: hiking, nature watching, picnicking.
What to bring for a successful family outing
A comfortable hike requires good walking shoes for the whole family. Bring enough water and a picnic for a contemplative break at the lake. Bring complete sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen). At high altitudes, the sun is more intense even when the temperature is low.
Our top five best mountain lakes in Corsica promise memorable family hikes. Between pine forests and rugged peaks, discover unique flora and fauna in their preserved natural habitats.
Before setting off, be sure to check the weather and dress appropriately (hiking boots, water, suitable clothing). Conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
These ecosystems are fragile. To preserve biodiversity, stay on the marked trails, do not pick plants, leave no trash behind, and avoid disturbing wild animals.
Be responsible so that these landscapes remain accessible to everyone, today and tomorrow.
