Southern Corsica is a land of exception, an unspoilt sanctuary where nature displays its finest finery. For nature lovers, this territory is a promise of constant wonder, an invitation to explore and contemplate.
Far from being limited to its world-renowned beaches, the region is home to a multitude of unmissable spots where the fauna, flora and grandiose landscapes are revealed in all their splendour.
From breathtaking cliffs plunging into a turquoise sea, to granite peaks guarding ancestral forests, to crystal-clear rivers winding through fragrant scrubland, Southern Corsica offers a rare ecological diversity. This guide takes you on a journey of discovery of the emblematic and secret places that will delight nature lovers.
The Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve is undoubtedly one of the major natural jewels of southern Corsica. Covering 80,000 hectares, it is the largest marine reserve in mainland France, and a veritable sanctuary for Mediterranean biodiversity.
Nature lovers will find it an exceptional place to explore, both from the sea and along the coastal paths. Bonifacio’s limestone cliffs, sculpted by wind and sea spray, offer spectacular vistas and are home to a specific flora adapted to these extreme conditions.
At the heart of this reserve, the archipelago of the Lavezzi Islands represents a unique ecosystem. These rounded granite islands, polished by erosion, create an almost lunar landscape, surrounded by extraordinarily clear waters. Accessible only by boat from Bonifacio, the Lavezzi are a paradise for snorkeling and diving.
Curious groupers, shoals of sars and a multitude of other species are frequently encountered in the midst of posidonia meadows, essential to the ecological balance of the Mediterranean. The marked trails on the main island also offer the chance to discover specific flora and colonies of seabirds such as the grey shearwater.
It’s important to remember that these sites are strictly protected. Navigation, diving and hiking are regulated to preserve their integrity. According to the latest guidelines issued by the Bouches de Bonifacio International Marine Park for the 2024-2025 season, anchorage areas are limited and sailing speed controlled.
Respecting these rules is essential if these unmissable spots preserve their magic and biological richness for future generations. A visit to these places, imbued with respect, offers a lesson in humility in the face of the power and beauty of preserved nature.
While South Corsica is famous for its iconic beaches such as Palombaggia and Santa Giulia, it also boasts many wild beaches and secret coves that will delight nature lovers in search of tranquillity. These unspoilt spots, often accessible after a walk through the scrub or by sea, offer a more authentic and intimate experience of the Corsican coastline.
They are characterized by an almost total absence of tourist facilities, giving way to the raw beauty of the landscape.
Roccapina beach, dominated by its famous lion-shaped rock and Genoese tower, is a perfect example. Accessible by footpath or coastal path, its fine sand and translucent waters make for an impressive setting.
Similarly, the beach at Campomoro, further north in the Gulf of Valinco, captivates with its authenticity and vast expanse of sand bordered by unspoilt scrubland. These well-known beaches retain an appreciable wild character, particularly outside the peak summer season.
For an even deeper immersion, venture out onto the less-frequented paths or explore the coast by paddle or kayak. Coves such as Cala di Conca, accessible after a pleasant hike from Tizzano, or Capo di Feno, close to Bonifacio but facing west, offer havens of peace where nature reigns supreme.
The fact is that discovering these beaches often requires a little effort, but the reward is just as good: the feeling of being alone in the world in front of an incredibly pure sea. Don’t forget to pack everything you need (water, food, sun protection) and, above all, to leave no trace of your visit.
Exploring the rocky coastline of Southern Corsica in a sea kayak or Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) is a privileged adventure for nature lovers. These silent, eco-friendly craft offer an intimate approach to the coastline, revealing details inaccessible from land or larger boats.
They offer the chance to squeeze through narrow passages, enter shallow sea caves andobserve coastal fauna without disturbing them.
The coastline between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio is particularly well-suited to this type of exploration. Cave-pierced limestone cliffs, small inlets and rocky islets such as Cerbicales offer an exceptional playground.
Paddling along Bonifacio’s cliffs provides a unique perspective on this perched citadel, and allows you to discover sea caves such as the famous Sdragonato grotto (accessible depending on sea conditions). The transparency of the water allows you to admire the seabed while sailing.
Further west, the coast around Campomoro and Tizzano has a wilder character, with vast stretches of scrubland plunging into the sea and granite formations sculpted by erosion. It’s an ideal area for kayak trips lasting several hours or even a day, with numerous opportunities to land on isolated beaches for a picnic or swimming break.
It’s interesting to note that sailing close to the water increases the chances of seeing seabirds (crested cormorants, gulls) and sometimes even dolphins playing offshore. dolphins playing offshore. This proximity to the elements and wildlife makes kayaking and paddling the perfect exploration tools for naturalists.
The Massif de Bavella is undoubtedly one of South Corsica’s must-see spots for nature and mountain lovers. These spectacular needles of pink granite rise proudly above vast forests of laricio pine, creating an alpine landscape unique in the Mediterranean.
Hiking is the best way to explore this grandiose site, with itineraries to suit all levels. The famous “Trou de la Bombe” (U Cumpuleddu), a natural arch offering a window onto the landscape, can be reached by an easy family hike of around 1h30 round trip from the Col de Bavella.
For more experienced walkers, the alpine variants of the GR20 that cross the massif offer technical challenges and breathtaking panoramas. The ascent to the Paliri refuge or the traverse to the Coscione plateau are demanding but unforgettable hikes.
These trails wind their way through scree slopes, along vertiginous cliff faces and offer breathtaking views over the gulfs of Porto-Vecchio and Valinco. The flora is also remarkable, with endemic species adapted to the altitude and granite soils.
In addition to hiking, Bavella is also a mecca for rock-climbers, with hundreds of routes carved into its walls, renowned for the exceptional grip of their rock. Even without practicing these vertical activities, simply contemplating these “Corsican Dolomites” from the pass or the many lookouts along the way is a memorable experience.
The atmosphere changes radically depending on the time of day and the weather, from bright, welcoming landscapes to more austere, mysterious atmospheres when the clouds cling to the peaks.
The Ospédale forest, located on the heights overlooking the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio, offers a welcome interlude of coolness and tranquillity. Particularly popular with nature lovers on hot summer days.
This vast state forest is mainly made up of majestic laricio pines, a species endemic to Corsica and recognizable by its slender stature and silvery-grey bark. Walking under the canopy of these hundred-year-old giants, in a silent atmosphere disturbed only by birdsong, is an interesting experience.
Lac de l’Ospédale, an artificial dam harmoniously integrated into the landscape, forms the heart of this forest massif. Its shores offer magnificent views and shaded picnic areas. An easy walk of around an hour takes you partially around the lake, through wooded areas and along the banks.
It’s an ideal family walk, accessible to all and offering great nature-watching opportunities. Cows and wild pigs can be seen watering, adding a picturesque touch to the landscape.
The Ospédale forest is also the starting point for several more ambitious hikes, including the one to the Piscia di Gallu waterfall. This relatively short trail (approx. 2h round trip) has a significant gradient and a more technical finish to reach the foot of this impressive 60-meter waterfall.
The reward is as great as the effort: a grandiose natural spectacle in the heart of unspoilt nature. Whether you’re looking for a simple stroll around the lake or a more challenging hike, the Ospédale forest is a must for lovers of forest nature and landscapes combining water and mountains.
For total immersion in unspoilt wilderness, the Coscione plateau (U Cuscionu) is the destination of choice for discerning nature lovers. Located in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional de Corse, between 1500 and 1800 meters above sea level, this vast, high-altitude plateau boasts a unique ecosystem characterized by pozzines.
These thick, spongy grasslands, dotted with waterholes, create an astonishing landscape sometimes reminiscent of Ireland or Iceland, in stark contrast to the Mediterranean scrub at lower altitudes.
Hiking the Coscione is a very special experience. The paths, sometimes barely marked, cross vast expanses of grass where herds of cows, horses and semi-wild pigs graze freely. This large animal presence contributes to the unique atmosphere of the area.
The flora is also unique, adapted to the harsh climatic conditions of altitude, with many endemic species blooming in spring and early summer. The silence and sense of immensity that emanate from this plateau are particularly appreciated by hikers in search of solitude and tranquillity.
Access to Coscione is generally via tracks from the villages of Zicavo or Quenza. We recommend the use of a 4×4 vehicle or a long approach walk. The plateau can then be explored on several hiking trails, such as the loop around the Bassetta sheepfolds or the climb to Monte Incudine (accessible from the plateau).
It should be noted that this site is subject to sometimes extreme weather conditions, even in summer, with risks of sudden fog or violent thunderstorms. sudden fog or violent thunderstorms. Good preparation and the right equipment are therefore essential for exploring this demanding Corsican mountain spot in complete safety.
South Corsica’s rivers offer refreshing and spectacular alternatives to coastal beaches, particularly popular with nature lovers on hot summer days. Among the most accessible and renowned are the natural pools of Cavu, near Sainte-Lucie de Porto-Vecchio.
The river has carved out a succession of clear emerald pools in the granite, linked by small waterfalls and natural slides. The site is easily accessible and offers several bathing areas suitable for all ages, from wide shallow pools to deeper basins allowing a few jumps (always after carefully checking the depth).
The Solenzara valley, gateway to the Bavella massif from the east coast, is also famous for its magnificent natural pools. Along the road leading up to the Col de Bavella, there are several access points to the river, allowing you to discover exceptional bathing sites in a grandiose setting.
The Purcaraccia pools and those near the Fiumicelli bridge are particularly renowned for the beauty of their waters and the polished rocks that surround them. The water is often invigorating, even in midsummer, offering a striking contrast to the ambient heat.
These river bathing sites have become very popular and can be crowded in high season. Fora more leisurely experience, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. It’s also possible to find more secluded pools by taking a short walk along the river away from the main access points.
We remind you of the importance of preserving these fragile environments by leaving no trace of your passage and respecting the tranquility of the area. For nature lovers, these unmissable spots offer much more than a simple swim: a deep connection with the aquatic element in an exceptional mineral and plant setting.
In addition to the natural pools that are easily accessible, South Corsica has many more secret gorges that lend themselves wonderfully to aquatic hiking. This activity, less technical and more challenging than sport canyoning, consists of climbing up or down a river bed, alternating between walking in the water, swimming in the pools and overcoming small natural obstacles (rocks, rapids).
It’s a fun, immersive way to discover wild, unspoilt stretches of river, often inaccessible by traditional paths.
Rivers such as the Taravo, the Rizzanese and some of the lesser-known tributaries of the Solenzara offer magnificent aquatic hiking trails. The equipment required is minimal: good waterproof shoes (trail shoes or used sneakers), a swimsuit and possibly a lightweight shorty for the coldest.
Exploration is generally done upstream, allowing you to choose your passages and easily turn back when you reach your limits or time runs out.
This outdoor activity is particularly suited to families with teenagers or groups of friends looking for a refreshing and original adventure. It allows you to observe aquatic fauna (trout, eels, insect larvae) and riverbank flora at close quarters in an unspoilt environment.
The fact is, progress in water, feeling the currentand overcoming natural obstacles provides a gratifying sense of freedom and adventure. Although less risky than canyoning, aquatic trekking nonetheless calls for caution: beware of slippery rocks, check depth before jumping, and beware of the weather (risk of rapid flooding if there’s a storm upstream).
For a first experience, hiring a local guide can be a good way to discover the most beautiful routes in complete safety.
TheSarten hinterland, the historic and cultural heart of southern Corsica, offers nature lovers immersive hikes in the heart of the Corsican maquis. This dense, fragrant plant formation, emblematic of the island, covers the region’s granite hills, creating landscapes of wild, austere beauty.
Hiking the trails that criss-cross this hinterland is a unique sensory experience. Where the scents of immortelle, myrtle, rockrose and rosemary mingle with the warmth of the sun and the song of the cicadas.
Several itineraries allow you to explore this authentic region. The loop around Sartène, “the most Corsican of Corsican towns”, offers a wonderful introduction to the Sarten landscapes, combining discovery of the built heritage with immersion in the surrounding maquis.
Longer routes, such as those linking the villages of Granace, Foza or Santa-Lucia-di-Tallano, follow ancient mule tracks through areas where nature has largely reclaimed its rights. These hikes allow you to appreciate the resilience of Mediterranean vegetation and discover vestiges of the agro-pastoral past (abandoned sheepfolds, cultivated terraces overgrown with scrub).
Hiking in the maquis requires a few precautions. In summer, the heat can be intense and shade scarce. It’s imperative to set off early in the morning, carry plenty of water and protect yourself effectively from the sun. The paths, which are sometimes poorly maintained, can be invaded by thorny vegetation, making it necessary to wear long pants even in hot weather.
However, these minor inconveniences are largely offset by the wild beauty of the landscapes and the unique atmosphere that emanates from these places steeped in history and tradition. A more secret and intimate Corsica is revealed to walkers who dare to venture off the coastal paths.
The Corsican maquis is much more than just a landscape; it’s an ecosystem of exceptional botanical richness, particularly fascinating for nature lovers. Hiking in Southern Corsica gives you the opportunity to observe and smell a remarkable endemic flora, adapted to the island’s dry, sunny conditions.
In spring, the maquis explodes with color and fragrance: white or pink rockrose, sea lavender, bright yellow thorny broom, pale blue rosemary and more. It’s an ideal time of year for amateur botanists.
Even in summer, when the vegetation seems drier, the maquis exudes powerful, distinctive scents.Corsican immortelle (Helichrysum italicum), with its small yellow flowers that never fade and its distinctive spicy fragrance, is omnipresent. Myrtle, whose berries are used to make the famous liqueur, gives off a fresh, resinous scent.
Pistachio andarbutus (whose edible fruit ripens in autumn) complete this unique olfactory picture. Strolling through the maquis becomes a true “sensory hiking” experience, where the sense of smell plays as important a role as the sense of sight.
There are a number of options available to visitors for further botanical discovery. Some botanical gardens, such as the Parc de Saleccia in Balagne (accessible from Haute-Corse but relevant to the whole island), present the main species of Corsican maquis and flora in a didactic way.
Themed guided hikes, focusing on plant recognition and their traditional uses (medicinal, culinary), are also offered by specialized mountain guides. These outings not only enable visitors to learn how to identify species, but also to understand the close links that unite Corsican culture to its plant environment.
Observing terrestrial fauna in Southern Corsica requires patience and discretion, but encounters can be particularly rewarding for nature lovers. The emblematic animal remains the Corsican mouflon, whose populations are mainly concentrated in the Bavella and Incudine mountain ranges.
Although shy, it’s not uncommon to spot it early in the morning or late in the day, grazing on rocky slopes or moving about in small groups. Using binoculars and choosing a discreet vantage point considerably increases your chances of success.
The Corsican wild boar (U Cignale), smaller and often darker than its continental cousin, is relatively common in scrubland and forests, but its predominantly nocturnal habits make daytime sightings more uncertain. Its tracks (boutis, footprints) are more easily spotted along paths.
The Corsican nuthatch, the only bird endemic to France and found only on the island, can be found in high altitude laricio pine forests. Its characteristic song and the way it flies down the trunks, head downwards, make it recognizable to attentive birdwatchers.
Reptiles are also well represented, including the brightly-colored Tyrrhenian lizard and the discreet Hermann’s tortoise, a protected species that can sometimes be seen slowly crossing a sunny path. It is essential never to disturb these animals and to observe them from a distance, especially Hermann’s tortoise, which is very sensitive to handling.
Respecting the tranquillity of wildlife is the golden rule for all naturalist observers. The best periods for observation are often spring (breeding season) and autumn, when tourist pressure diminishes and the animals are less shy.
The South Corsican coastline also offers excellent opportunities for observing marine life. Dolphins are frequently spotted offshore, particularly in the area of the Pelagos sanctuary for marine mammals in the Mediterranean, which covers a large part of Corsican waters.
Several species are present, including the blue and white dolphin and the bottlenose dolphin. Whale watching excursions by boat, departing from Porto-Vecchio or Bonifacio in particular, enable you to get close to these animals while respecting the rules of observation so as not to disturb them. Encounters are random, but always magical.
Even without going far from the shore, coastal fish observation is accessible to all, especially when snorkeling. The rocky areas are home to a wide variety of colorful species: brightly colored peacock wrasse, a variety of crenilabra, striped sars, and sometimes small juvenile groupers in protected areas.
Posidonia meadows, although less spectacular at first glance, are essential nurseries for many species and home to specific fauna such as saupes and starfish.
In fact, even from harbour quays or rocky points, you can often spot schools of mullet or oblades hunting close to the surface. For those with a passion for the sport, the use ofa Mediterranean fish identification guide can greatly enhance the experience.
It’s important to remember that underwater fishing is strictly regulated, and the capture of certain species such as grouper is totally forbidden. Respectful observation remains the best way to appreciate this exceptional marine wealth.
Spring (April-June) is ideal for flora (flowering maquis, wild orchids) and nesting birdwatching.Autumn (September-October) offers beautiful colors, pleasant temperatures for hiking and warm seas for snorkeling.
Summer is perfect for marine life, but the heat can limit land-based activities and wildlife is more discreet. Winter offers migratory birdwatching and peace and quiet, but access to the high mountains is limited.
It’s not always compulsory, but strongly recommended for certain sites or activities. For challenging mountain hikes, climbing, canyoning or diving on specific sites, a professional guide brings safety and knowledge of the terrain.
For wildlife observation or botanical discoveries, a naturalist guide can greatly enhance the experience. For well-marked and accessible sites (beaches, easy coastal paths), independent exploration is quite possible with good preparation.
The golden rule is discretion. Use binoculars to observe from a distance. Stay on trails to avoid trampling habitats. Never feed wild animals. Avoid loud noises and sudden movements.
When at sea, respect the recommended approach distances for cetaceans and never chase animals. When diving or snorkeling, never touch or collect anything. Be particularly vigilant during breeding periods.
Equipment depends on the activity. For hiking: good shoes, water, sun protection, map/GPS. For snorkeling: mask, snorkel, fins (optional). For observation: binoculars, identification guide (birds, flowers, fish).
For supervised activities (canyoning, diving, etc.), specific equipment is generally provided. A camera (possibly waterproof) is always a good idea to immortalize your discoveries.
Yes, there are several applications that can enhance your exploration. For hiking: Visorando, Komoot or Iphigénie (IGN maps). For flora identification: PlantNet. For birds: BirdNet (song identification) or Merlin Bird ID. For seabeds: Fishipédia. Remember to download maps or databases offline, as network coverage may be limited in some natural areas.
By adopting simple gestures: leave no trace of your passage (bring back all your garbage). Stay on marked trails. Don ‘t pick flowers or collect anything (shells, rocks, etc.). Respect the regulations of protected areas (nature reserves, marine parks, etc.). Avoid making fires. Choose service providers committed to environmental protection.
Support local conservation organizations. Your responsible behavior is essential to preserving the beauty of these unmissable spots.
