Corsica is made for a slow, scenic road trip. Not one where you rush from one place to the next, but the kind where you roll down the windows, take your time, and let the journey guide you. Winding along steep cliffs, through mountain passes, and past quiet traditional villages, every turn brings a new view worth pulling over for.
Drivers, bikers, and cyclists will love these seven scenic routes- they perfectly capture the island’s essence and reveal its most unforgettable corners. Enjoy every mile!
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1. TOUR OF CAP CORSE
The rugged Cap Corse peninsula, stretching north from Bastia, is home to one of Corsica’s most breathtaking drives. This iconic 120-kilometre-long D80 road is narrow and winding, with steep drop-offs, demanding careful driving, but it rewards travelers with spectacular panoramic views at every turn. Tracing the shoreline, it circles the cape’s jagged edge above the dazzling sea and wind-battered rocks. Starting your journey in Bastia and traveling anti-clockwise towards Saint Florent is ideal to catch the glowing sunrise on the east coast and enjoy the sunset over the western cliffs.
The Cap Corse tour makes for a great day trip, but lingering longer to explore the peninsula’s hidden treasures and local culture transforms the drive into a thrilling adventure. The gentle, vineyard-carpeted east coast is dotted with charming fishing villages and quiet beaches, offering views of Elba and Capraia on clear days. In contrast, the wilder west side is all drama- towering rocky walls, crashing waves, and cinematic panoramas that will test your camera batteries. Remote Romanesque chapels, timeworn Genoese towers, and nostalgic Maisons Americaines witness to the cape’s fascinating past.
BOOK A CATAMARAN TOUR OF THE NORTHERN COAST
Luxury catamaran trip from Saint Florent. Enjoy a sea adventure touring the sublime Agriates coast aboard a deluxe catamaran. Snorkel in the turquoise sea waters and sunbathe sipping the delicious cocktails from the bar. Choose a day trip or a half-day excursion.
ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
- The Lavasina village with its revered church known as ‘the Lourdes of Corsica’.
- Erbalunga, one of the most picturesque Corsican hamlets.
- Macinaggio port celebrated for great seafood and lovely beaches.
- Muscat de Cap Corse, Corsica’s superb dessert wine produced in the cape’s vineyards.
- Site Naturel de Capandula, a wild territory on Cap Corse’s northern tip, known for scenic hiking trails.
- The dreamy, turquoise-water beach of Barcaggio.
- Centuri-Port, a supremely photogenic fishing village where you will get the best lobster on the island.
- An easy Tour de Sénèque hike above Pino for the peninsula’s 360° views.
- The archetypal perched village of Nonza, with its imposing tower and an immense black beach.
2. ASCO VALLEY DRIVE
Asco Valley, nestled in the heart of northern Corsica beneath the towering Monte Cinto, is a sanctuary for lovers of untouched nature and inspiring mountain panoramas. Its scenic D147 road offers an exciting 32-kilometer ascent along the roaring river, winding through a dramatic canyon towards high alpine territory.
The lower valley section hugs steep cliffs with sharp hairpin bends, offering views of ancient Laricio pine forests and crystal-clear river pools, where swimmers seek refuge from coastal heat and crowds. As you rise, the road opens to wide vistas of Corsica’s tallest peaks, passing shallow stretches of the torrent, perfect for family breaks.
The ride culminates at Asco-Stagnu (1422m), a small ski resort that, in summer, transforms into a popular gateway for hiking and climbing. This route demands attentive driving- thigh bends and narrow passages require caution and slow speeds. However, beyond its technical challenges, the incredible Asco drive grants an abundance of pristine natural beauty, from cascading waterfalls and emerald basins to element-shaped mountain scenery.
BOOK A 4×4 ASCO VALLEY TOUR FROM CALVI
Discover untouched nature and the river’s emerald swimming pools on an exciting day-long 4×4 tour of Asco Valley. With the backdrop of Monte Cinto, Corsica’s highest peak, you will explore some of the island’s wildest corners. Bring your swimwear to enjoy a dip in the torrent’s crystal clear water.
ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
- Natural swimming pools of Asco River, perfect for aquatic fun on hot days.
- A 15th-century Genoese Bridge in the village of Asco spanning the emerald-coloured river.
- Playful canyoning excursions organized in the wild Asco gorge.
- Asco Via Ferrata with ladders, suspended bridges, and zip lines.
- Numerous hiking trails crossing the valley, including the famous GR20.
- The ascent of Monte Cinto, Corsica’s highest mountain.
- Turtle sanctuary in Moltifao.
- Traditional mountain cuisine served in the Asco village restaurants.
3. CALANCHES DE PIANA ROUTE
Calanches de Piana are a spectacular natural wonder on Corsica’s west coast, renowned for their immense red granite rock formations sculpted by wind and sea over millennia. Rising up to 300 meters above the cobalt-blue Mediterranean waters, they form an otherworldly seascape that earned UNESCO World Heritage status, alongside the nearby Scandola Nature Reserve.
You can drive through this dramatic scenery via the emblematic 12 km stretch of the D81 road between Piana and Porto. This celebrated coastal route follows a twisting course between narrow passages carved into sheer cliffs, offering numerous vantage points where you can pull over and savour stunning views. As dusk falls, the rocks ignite with fiery tones of red, deepening the shadows and intensifying the landscape’s elemental aura.
As the road narrows in places, traffic can become heavy during the summer months. But there’s no need to rush when visiting this unique natural attraction. Drive slowly and mindfully, taking time to truly absorb the intoxicating union of sea, sky, and sculpted stone. For a completely different perspective, consider joining a boat tour– the view from the water reveals a stunning spectacle, where majestic porphyry cliffs rise directly from the Mediterranean, even more breathtaking from below.
BOOK A BOAT TOUR FROM PORTO
Enjoy a scenic 3-hour boat excursion to Porto Bay’s key locations- Scandola, Calanches de Piana, and Capo Rosso. Depending on the weather, you will enjoy a swimming break with a backdrop of the arresting red cliffs.
ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
- Porto, a beautifully set coastal town and an adventure hub for lovers of the outdoors.
- An easy, family-friendly hike to Chateau Fort offering sublime views of Porto Gulf.
- A superb trek via Sentier des Muletiers, an old mule trail above the Calanches and the mesmerizing bay.
- Perched 400 meters above the Mediterranean, the charming village of Piana, often hailed as one of France’s most stunning.
- Anse de Ficaghjola, a sapphire-hued sand and pebble cove located a few kilometres west of Piana.
- The ascent of Capo d’Orto (1294 m), an archetypal summit dominating the western landscapes.
4. PORTO TO EVISA DRIVE
The scenery around Porto is truly breathtaking, with the Scandola Reserve and Calanches de Piana cradling the stunning gulf in a dramatic embrace. But as you head east toward the island’s rugged interior, the landscapes become even more awe-inspiring. One of the most striking stretches is the 22-kilometer section along D84 to Evisa.
The road winds through the spectacular Spelunca corridor formed by towering pink and red granite walls, reaching up to 1000 meters. Below, a lively torrent carves its course towards the sea in a succession of pools and waterfalls. Along the way, numerous viewpoints allow for pauses to admire this mythical scenery, while free-roaming Corsican goats graze peacefully on the side.
D84 continues to climb up the valley, granting exhilarating vistas that reach the Mediterranean, before eventually reaching Evisa. Perched at 850 meters above sea level, the village is charming. Surrounded by chestnut forests and dramatic peaks, it’s a popular base for hikers exploring the island’s wild heart and a treasured place for nature lovers in search of seclusion and tranquillity by the local rivers.
BOOK A BOAT TRIP FROM PORTO BAY
Join an unforgettable 3-hour Capo Rosso, Calanches de Piana and Scandola boat tour on a family-friendly vessel. During your excursion, you will enjoy a swimming break. Snorkeling gear is provided, and the boat is adapted for children.
ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
- Some of the most impressive panoramic views available on the island’s roads.
- Pont de Pianella, a pretty Genoese bridge near the village of Ota, where you can swim under the historic arch.
- Natural swimming pools of Spelonca and Lonca gorges.
- Evisa, a picturesque mountain village renowned for its cultural heritage and old traditions.
- Walking trails crossing the area, including the easy forest hike to the Aitone waterfalls.
- Mouthwatering cuisine rich in products made from the local chestnut.
5. SCALA SANTA REGINA DRIVE
Wilderness, isolation, and grandeur- Scala di Santa Regina offers one of Corsica’s most striking drives, as the D84 road carves its way through a deep, narrow granite gorge shaped by Golo River. Steep 300-meter cliffs loom overhead, with the craggy corridor connecting eastern Corsica to the remote Niolo valley, nestled centrally at the foot of Monte Cinto and Paglia Orba.
This historic route was built in the 19th century to replace a treacherous mule track. Today it winds from Ponte Castirla to Calacuccia, with its most dramatic 10 km stretch clinging precariously to rock walls above sparkling water, protected by low brick walls. The landscapes shift with the seasons- from the colourful maquis wildflowers of spring to the fiery hues of autumn, while scattered bays let you pause for photos or reach the river’s edge.
Cautious driving is essential, especially in narrow passages with sheer drops, while mobile signal is scarce. Travel in the morning or early afternoon for the best light on the ochre rock faces, and consider extending your adventure into the neighboring Porto-Evisa route for more spellbinding vistas.
BOOK A FUN RIVER ACTIVITY IN THE AREA
Enjoy canyoning in the Verghellu Canyon, an exciting half-day aquatic adventure in one of Corsica’s most entertaining canyons. With a certified guide, you will discover breathtaking scenery, swimming in natural river pools, sliding and abseiling. You must be able to swim but no prior canyoning experience is required.
ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
- Views of some of Corsica’s highest mountains, including Monte Cinto (2706m) and the shark’s fin-like summit of Paglia Orba (2525m).
- Albertacce and Calacuccia, quiet villages of the Niolo valley.
- U Ponte Altu, a beautiful Genoese bridge 1 km west of Albertacce.
- Goat’s cheese and traditional charcuterie produced in Niolo.
- Numerous walking trails crossing the territory, including the Nino trek, GR2O, and the hike to Cascade de Radule.
- Snow-covered high-altitude scenery during the winter months.
6. DEFILE DE L’INZECCA DRIVE
The drive through Défilé de l’Inzecca gorge, and its continuation, known as Défilé des Strette, is one of Corsica’s true hidden gems- lesser known than the island’s coastal routes but no less spectacular. Tucked away in the centre-east, this scenic road follows the course of the Fium’Orbu river along D344, revealing untouched scenery far from the well-trodden tourist paths.
The Inzecca gorge, a protected Natura 2000 site, captivates with its towering cliffs of red and green serpentinite, carved by the river’s lively waters. Over a dramatic 2 km stretch before the Sampolo tunnel, the road clings to the cliffs high above the ravine, twisting through narrow bends. It eventually opens to peaceful vistas of the Sampolo Reservoir framed by forested peaks.
Continuing into the softer landscapes of Défilé des Strette, the canyon crosses lush greenery towards the mountain village of Ghisoni. This upper valley section is dotted with emerald natural pools ideal for swimming and Genoese bridges, with a monumental backdrop of the Monte Renoso massif.
BOOK CANYONING FOR BEGINNERS
Enjoy a session of canyoning for beginners in the Richiusa Canyon. Swim, splash, jump, and slide in the emerald river water on a thrilling half-day excursion descending the beautiful Richiusa canyon at Bocognano. This playful activity is accessible to children as young as 9 and will satisfy the whole family.
ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
- The most dramatic 2 km corniche section before the Sampolo tunnel, with vertiginous drops and sharp turns.
- Sampolo Reservoir- a tranquil, artificial lake near the western end of Inzecca.
- Natural swimming pools of the Fium’Orbu river in Défilé des Strette.
- Ghisoni, a historic mountain village, culminating the drive.
- The Ghisoni Adventure Park (https://parc-aventure-ghisoni.com/) offering treetop fun with rope bridges, zip lines, and suspended tunnels.
- A panoramic hike to Lac de Bastani and Monte Renoso.
7. BAVELLA DRIVE
The cherished Bavella drive, stretching 75 km through the mountainous landscapes of Alta Rocca, will grant you a day-long unforgettable adventure in some of Corsica’s most emblematic scenery. Beginning in Porto Vecchio, the road ascends through the dense L’Ospedale forest, offering refreshing shade and panoramic views over the Porto Vecchio Gulf. Lac de l’Ospedale, a serene reservoir surrounded by pine and beech trees, is perfect for hikes or picnics.
Continuing north, the route becomes increasingly twisty, offering dramatic vistas of tall rocky walls. Past the village of Zonza, outdoor enthusiasts’ hub, it climbs towards Col de Bavella (1218m), a mountain pass dominated by the iconic Aiguilles de Bavella. These famous towering granite spires define Corsica’s striking skyline, looming above the road, now punctuated by hairpin bends and lookout points, where every turn reveals new awe-inspiring panoramas.
The pass also serves as a trailhead for numerous hikes ranging from short, family-friendly walks to challenging paths along the famed GR20. Descending from Bavella, the road winds down to Solenzara, a charming coastal town with a picturesque marina and sandy beaches. Along the way, you will have numerous opportunities to stop by the river and enjoy its cooling waters in truly pristine surroundings.
BOOK A BAVELLA AND OSPEDALE FOREST 4×4 TOUR
Set out on an unforgettable excursion to the magical Ospedale Forest and the Needles of Bavella, departing from Porto-Vecchio. This 8-hour journey guarantees sublime mountainous scenery of Corsica’s rugged interior, where wild pigs roam free and the humming of freshwater torrents is ever-present. A traditional Corsican meal is included in the price.
ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
- L’Ospedale Forest, a great place for family walks in the shade of ancient trees.
- The serene Lac de l’Ospedale engulfed in untouched nature, ideal for picnics and relaxation.
- An easy hike to the 70-meter-high Piscia di Gallu waterfall.
- Zonza, a lively village where hikers and nature lovers come to relax after an active day outdoors.
- Col de Bavella (1218m), the stunning mountain pass crowned by famous granite spires.
- Delicious mountain food, including traditional charcuterie, served in the Bavella restaurants.
- A family-friendly hike to Trou de la Bombe for great views of the scenery.
- Guided canyoning excursions in the stunning Bavella gorges.
- Natural swimming pools dotting the peaceful banks of Solenzara River.
- G-Aventura Park offering family-friendly treetop activities.
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