Porto-Vecchio, a land of hikes

Published on July 7, 2024 at 4:00 pm

The Porto-Vecchio region remains a popular destination for hiking and outdoor sports enthusiasts.

With its spectacular natural setting, perfect climate and numerous hiking trails, Porto-Vecchio is an ideal destination!

Among the many itineraries, the most famous are the GR 20 and the Mare a Mare Sud.

Don't underestimate these adventures! Depending on your physical condition, the climate and the type of terrain, a hike in Corsica requires careful preparation!

Porto-Vecchio's hinterland: a playground for sports enthusiasts

Summary

Porto-Vecchio and hiking
Departure for the Mare a Mare Sud trail
Where to sleep near the finish of the Mare a Mare Sud trail?

Porto-Vecchio and hiking

The town is a perfect stopping-off point before or after a long hike.

🗺️ The Porto-Vecchio tourist office has a number of documents and maps for hikers.

So make sure you have all the information you need before setting off on your hike (IGN map and plans).

🥾 What's more, the area around Porto-Vecchio is the starting point for the magnificent and very tough GR20 trail. In fact, the famous trail arrives or begins (depending on your choice) in the village of Conca.

But be warned: this is an extreme route that is only suitable for experienced hikers!

It takes around 15 days to complete and involves a 180-kilometre walk (with around 11,000 metres of ascent).

The Aiguilles de Bavella in southern Corsica

Departure for the Mare a Mare Sud trail

🥾 The Mare a Mare Sud links the west to the east of the island, from Porto-Vecchio to Propriano.

Leaving from Porto-Vecchio, you'll discover the riches of the Corsican interior, known here as the Alta Rocca.

🌲 Among the main points of interest are the Ospedale area, the village of Zonza, Sainte-Lucie-de-Tallano and the Olmeto forest. Take a diversion to the Aiguilles de Bavella!

⛰️ In fact, these are medium-sized mountains dotted with typical villages and deep forests.

This trail remains accessible almost all year round (watch out for thunderstorms, heavy rain in autumn and rare snowfalls in winter).

🕑 As a bonus, the Mare a Mare Sud trail requires less preparation than the GR20. So, in order to complete the route in its entirety, allow an average of 5 days' walking.

To start your hike from Porto-Vecchio, head for the village of Notta. You'll find bars, restaurants and shops along the way.

You'll arrive not far from Propriano.

You will also pass through part of the superb Corsican Regional Nature Park. Don't hesitate to ask before you set off!

The hinterland around Zonza

Where to sleep near the finish of the Mare a Mare Sud trail?

⭐ Renting a house at Domaine Arena will be synonymous with top holidays!

Whether you're with friends or family, this holiday home sleeps 6.

🛌 It has 3 bedrooms, and offers you all modern comforts.

As a bonus, a beautiful terrace overlooking the pool completes the building. The perfect place to enjoy breakfast or dinner under the stars...

🌲 In the heart of nature between fields and forests, the beautiful stone house awaits you for a delicious moment in perspective!

🏊 The heated swimming pool will be the ultimate gift of your stay! If you arrive after the Mare a Mare walk such an address will be a welcome comfort!

🚗 Finally, free parking is available on site for guests.

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Arena Estate

Domaine d'Arena offers self-catering villas with an outdoor swimming pool, garden and terrace, a 15-minute drive from the centre of Porto-Vecchio. It is 11 km from Palombaggia beach.

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Practical information

⏰ When should you come hiking inland from Porto-Vecchio?

You can explore the interior of this superb region all year round.

The best thing is to discover it at different times of the year.

Each season is clearly marked. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant, as the weather is less oppressive than in midsummer.

What's more, the colours are more vivid (ideal for photographers).

In winter, the snow can bring its white magic to the highest peaks (your preparation must be optimal).

🚌 How do I get to the hiking trails inland from Porto-Vecchio?

The Alta Rocca is around twenty kilometres north of Porto-Vecchio.

From Porto-Vecchio, the Alta Rocca is linked to the city by several roads.

The easiest is to follow the D368 road as it winds its way up the Corsican hills. In just 20 kilometres, the change is total.

The relief of Corsica's interior

🚗 Where can I park near the Alta Rocca and the trailheads?

For quick access to the most interesting spots, the best place to park is in the village of Ospedale or near the lake.

There are also car parks along the road to Cartalavone (access to the Mare a Mare trail).

If you want to reach the beautiful Piscia di Gallu waterfall, it's best to park along the D368 road leading down to Zonza.

by Editorial Team

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Porto Vecchio