7 MAGICAL WATERFALLS IN CORSICA EVERY NATURE LOVER SHOULD SEE

by Karola

Corsica is a river paradise where countless streams carve the island into a mosaic of waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. Hidden within untouched wilderness, these freshwater enclaves evoke exotic scenery seldom found elsewhere in the Mediterranean.

Some cascades are gentle and secluded, perfect for a quiet retreat away from the world’s bustle, where only the murmur of the flowing torrent hums softly in the background. Others, powerful and dramatic, plunge down rugged cliffs in an awe-inspiring display of nature’s force.

This post presents seven of Corsica’s most beautiful waterfalls, each with its own character and charm. Several locations offer a chance to take a refreshing dip in cool mountain waters- an unforgettable highlight of any outdoor adventure. For a comprehensive overview of Corsica’s 33 most stunning waterfalls and natural pools, consult the river guide.

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33 Natural Pools and Waterfalls in Corsica

Descriptions – Directions – Coordinates

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

When exploring the Corsican rivers, it is crucial to consider several safety precautions to ensure secure recreation. Here are key points to keep in mind:

  • Always check weather reports before setting out.
  • Cancel your adventure in case of storms, heavy rain, or high winds. In Corsica, flash floods that rapidly change water levels within a short period after a rain event are common.
  • Exit the water immediately and leave the river valley if you hear thunder or see lightning.
  • Avoid sudden exposure to stream water, which may cause cold water shock.
  • At all times, supervise children, the elderly, or people with reduced mobility near the river and in the water, to avoid injury or drowning.
  • Be cautious of fast-moving currents, especially after adverse weather. Pay special attention near the waterfalls.
  • Watch out on slippery, wet rock surfaces. Wear shoes with a good grip while exploring the river or swimming.
  • Avoid jumping into the river even if you see others do it. Diving into unknown waters can lead to serious injuries from hitting submerged objects or shallow areas.
  • Don’t drink river water.
  • Watch out for increased water levels in autumn, winter, and spring when abundant rains and snowmelt feed the Corsican river network.

The Bucatoghju waterfall flows into a deep natural swimming pool, bringing relief from the coastal heat.
The Bucatoghju waterfall flows into a deep natural swimming pool, bringing relief from the coastal heat.

1. CASCADE DU BUCATOGHJU

The Bucatoghju oasis, just inland from the Costa Verde beaches, is a great place to cool down and unwind away from the coastal heat. A six-meter waterfall pours into a deep, emerald pool shaded by a large fig tree. The water is translucent, perfect for swimming, while the cascade’s pristine surroundings create an enchanted natural backdrop. The rocky approach, however, is not recommended for small children.

Getting there is easy. 2 km south of Moriani-Plage, turn right from the main RT10 road into D334 and continue for 2 km to take a second right turn towards Pievanie Santa Maria. You will soon reach the car park (€5 from May to October). From there, follow a wide access path beside the gate.  Once you encounter a pretty Genoese bridge on your right, don’t cross it but carry on to a tall telephone mast, where you need to enter the forest. Keep going until you arrive at large rocky boulders and the waterfall.

Radule waterfalls plunge 25 meters into stunning emerald pools with high mountains as a backdrop.
Radule waterfalls plunge 25 meters into stunning emerald pools with high mountains as a backdrop.

2. CASCADE DE RADULE

Nestled on the Vergio pass, Cascade de Radule reveals a series of striking sapphire-hued pools fed by waterfalls reaching up to 25 meters. Surrounded by Corsica’s high mountain scenery, the area offers some of the island’s most breathtaking panoramas. The trail leading to the cascades is short (4.3 km round-trip) and manageable for most casual hikers, except young children.

If you arrive from Calacuccia and Albertacce, continue on D84 towards Col de Vergio. Leave your car on a horseshoe hairpin bend known as Le Fer à Cheval, 4 km before the pass. From the wooden sign, follow the blue-marked path, sections of the route merge with the GR20. Having passed Bergeries de Radule, carry on towards Golo River, which you will cross via a footbridge. Turn right into a steeply descending Mare a Mare Nord trail until you reach the waterfalls.

Aitone waterfalls and natural pools are hidden in an unspoilt oasis deep in the heart of the Corsican mountains.
Aitone waterfalls and natural pools are hidden in an unspoilt oasis deep in the heart of the Corsican mountains.

3. CASCADE D’AITONE

The Aitone Forest, a peaceful 4000-hectare haven of dense greenery and pure mountain air, stretching between Evisa and the Vergio pass, shelters some of Corsica’s most picturesque cascades. A crystalline stream winds through the landscape, forming a succession of small waterfalls and clear pools ideal for a refreshing dip or quiet rest. This spot is especially charming in autumn, when woodlands take on rich golden tones. You can spread your picnic blanket on large flat rocks by the river, though the water is very cold.

The path to Cascade d’Aitone starts 3.2 km from Evisa on D84 running to Col de Vergio. Park your car in the clearing by the road, 120 meters before the trailhead forks out into the woods. Continue for 15 minutes along a shaded piste. Upon reaching waterfalls, remain cautious as granite rock gets very slippery when wet.

Cascade des Anglais waterfalls form a majestic water-and-granite landscape at the foot of Monte d'Oro in the Vizzavona forest.
Cascade des Anglais waterfalls form a majestic water-and-granite landscape at the foot of Monte d’Oro in the Vizzavona forest.

4. CASCADE DES ANGLAIS

Located in the heart of the ancient Vizzavona forest, Cascade des Anglais is one of central Corsica’s most-visited natural attractions. Agnone River flows through a sequence of picturesque waterfalls and emerald pools at the foot of Monte d’Oro, creating a perfect place to cool off on a hot day. In the late 19th century, the site became popular with British aristocrats escaping Ajaccio’s summer heat. Today, it remains an easily accessible, rewarding destination, reached by a gentle forest trail ideal for families, with plenty of scenic spots for a riverside picnic.

The 20-minute hike to Cascade des Anglais starts at the Adventure Park on T20, linking Bastia and Ajaccio, north of the Vizzavona mountain pass. Follow a shaded path into the forest. At the Passerelle de l’Agnone bridge, the piste merges with the iconic GR20 trail marked with white and red paint. Near the river, the terrain becomes rockier, with wet surfaces requiring careful treading. From the small wooden chalet, you may continue upstream to explore the most impressive waterfalls.

At 70 meters high, the Voile de la Mariée waterfall ranks among Corsica's most spectacular cascades.
At 70 meters high, the Voile de la Mariée waterfall ranks among Corsica’s most spectacular cascades.

5. VOILE DE LA MARIEE

Near the village of Bocognano, the Voile de la Mariée waterfall lives up to its poetic name, tumbling down over 70 meters in sparkling streams that spread like a bride’s veil. Engulfed in quiet woodlands, it is among Corsica’s most admired natural sights. Rocks near the cascade’s base are slippery and uneven, making them unsuitable for children or seniors, but adventure lovers can enjoy a splash in the cool water. Spring is the best time to visit, when snowmelt swells the torrent and the waterfall is at its most spectacular.

Voile de la Mariée is easy to reach. From T20 in Bocognano, turn into the D27 road for Bastelica. Continue for 3.4 km to a small car park on the right, after the bridge. The trail starts before the bridge and takes only 10-15 minutes to navigate, although it is fairly steep.

Cloaked by untouched greenery in Corsica's highlands, the Piscia di l'Onda waterfall is reminiscent of faraway tropical locations.
Cloaked by untouched greenery in Corsica’s highlands, the Piscia di l’Onda waterfall is reminiscent of faraway tropical locations.

6. PISCIA DI L’ONDA

Hidden deep in Corsica’s hills at 607 meters above sea level, the Piscia di l’Onda site feels like a secret corner of paradise. The waterfall plunges nearly 50 meters into a pristine pool concealed by ancient trees, offering a peaceful hideaway far from the coastal noise. Reaching it requires a 50‑minute walk through a beautiful chestnut forest, a trail suitable for most families. The area around the pool is scattered with polished rocks, uncomfortable to tread on and slippery, therefore best avoided by small children and the elderly.

From the T40 roundabout, north of Petreto-Bicchisano, follow D757 in the direction of Olivese. 1 km from the Moca Croce exit, you will find a small parking bay on the left. A well-marked trail starts opposite the car park by an old mill ruin.

In the Bavella mountains, Piscia di Gallo plunges down a sheer cliff with force before crashing into a large natural pool.
In the Bavella mountains, Piscia di Gallo plunges down a sheer cliff with force before crashing into a large natural pool.

7. PISCIA DI GALLU

For those exploring the Porto Vecchio or Bonifacio region, a visit to the Piscia di Gallu waterfall offers an exciting family-friendly escape amid Corsica’s dramatic mountain scenery. Set along the scenic Bavella road, this impressive 70‑meter cascade drops down a steep rocky wall, earning its place among the island’s most renowned natural landmarks. Facing east, it is at its most glorious in the soft light of the morning sun.

The 4.6-kilometre round‑trip trail begins about 2 kilometres north of the L’Ospedale dam and takes two hours to complete. The first stretch leads through a Lariccio pine forest by a murmuring stream, while the final section descends steeply to an exposed viewing point overlooking the waterfall. At the trailhead, you’ll find a spacious paid car park along with a few restaurants offering light meals and cool beverages.

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33 Natural Pools and Waterfalls in Corsica

Descriptions – Directions – Coordinates

Liability Disclaimer

All outdoor activities are carried out at your own risk. Always plan ahead and be cautious when preparing for your outdoor adventures. The author of this blog cannot be held responsible in the event of an accident, death, loss, personal injury, or any other inconvenience or damage that may be sustained by anyone as a result of the use of any information contained on this website.

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