The mesmerizing Asco Valley carved out in the heart of northern Corsica is a superb wild place cherished by nature lovers, outdoor sports enthusiasts, and families. Brimming with varied awe-inspiring, monumental landscapes it offers an abundance of exciting leisure activities and thrilling adventures. With the backdrop of idyllic river pools, cascading waterfalls, and deep canyons dominated by Corsica’s highest mountains you can swim, hike, climb, cycle, or practice canyoning.
With plenty to do and see in each season of the year, Asco is known as one of the most versatile destinations on the island. Located only a short drive away from the azure coves of the Mediterranean it offers unique alpine scenery and distinctive pastoral culture at the foot of Corsica’s king summit, Monte Cinto.
If the coast becomes too hot and crowded, or the ever-present insular wind picks up in force thwarting your beach plans, head to the glorious Valley of Asco to cool off and unwind in the seclusion of your Corsican slice of heaven.
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GORGES DE L’ASCO – FACTFILE
- Asco Valley is part of the Regional Natural Park of Corsica.
- It is located in the heart of the Monte Cinto Massif, home to Corsica’s highest mountains.
- River Asco has its source under Punta Rossa.
- The upper valley’s mineral landscapes enjoy an alpine climate with snow present in shaded spots of mountain peaks well into July.
- Protected fauna species of Asco include the Corsican mouflon and the Corsican forest cat.
- The small local population concentrates in the village of Asco at an altitude of 600m.
- The Asco-Stagnu ski station opened in 1964. The slopes are available for skiing during short periods of snowfall.
- River water remains cool even in midsummer oscillating around 15°C. Downstream the temperature is warmer than in the upper valley.
- Telephone reception in the valley is poor with signal available only in certain spots, depending on the operator.
ASCO SCENIC DRIVE
The Asco D147 route is one of the most beautiful scenic drives on the island attracting to its magical scenery courageous drivers, bike riders, and cyclers. It starts just north of Ponte Leccia in the center of northern Corsica when the main T30 road branches west towards Capannace and the village of Asco. Following the meandering course of the rushing torrent, D147 ascents upstream for 32 kilometers to culminate at its high-altitude final point Asco-Stagnu (1422m).
LOWER VALLEY
Its first stretch clings to the rock’s vertical wall above the narrow canyon in a sequence of electrifying twists and turns. Numerous bays dotting the carved corniche facilitate the safe passing of the oncoming traffic. At this point, you will drive on the right bank of the river along the rock face.
UPPER VALLEY
In Asco, the road gains altitude to finally emerge high above the gorge with views of Corsica’s tallest peaks. Wider and more exposed, it passes through the ancient maritime Laricio pine forest that will persevere until the ride’s top point. Once you cross a small bridge above water-sculpted large boulders you will continue on the outermost side of D147 tracing the river’s shoreline. Picture-perfect picnic spots and sandy clearings marking the upper valley are great for family recreation and afternoon siestas.
The drive reaches its finale at the large car park in Asco-Stagnu, a small ski station where in summer, instead of indulging in winter sports, you can hike, climb, or simply enjoy a delicious meal in one of the restaurants.
DRIVING PRECAUTIONS
When navigating this incredibly scenic road, keep your focus on high alert, never cut corners, and anticipate the coming traffic before sharp bends. When descending, save your breaks and let the transmission do the work. Before entering the valley, don’t forget to fill up.
4X4 DAY TOUR OF ASCO FROM CALVI OR ILE ROUSSE
Explore the mesmerizing Asco Valley on a 4×4 day tour with pickup in Balagne. Discover one of the most beautiful corners in Corsica at the foot of its highest mountain, Monte Cinto, and enjoy a 2-hour break for a refreshing dip in crystal-clear river water. Your guide provides commentary in French and English. Book your activity here.
NATURAL POOLS OF RIVER ASCO
Asco Valley has an abundance of excellent places ideal for wild swimming- be it natural river pools, emerald-water rocky passages, rushing waterfalls, or granitic slides. The crystal-clear, cool water of the torrent gushes down the element-sculpted boulders forming a natural aquatic playground guarded by the island’s highest mountains.
In the lower Asco, narrow canyons meander through a rocky chaos forming long deep piscines where canyoning lovers practice their skills. Sandy riverside beaches break from time to time the sinuous torrent providing sublime spots where you can spread your picnic blanket.
The upper valley sheltered by the majestic communal forests takes on a softer appearance. Despite the growing sense of isolation due to omnipresent lofty mountain peaks piercing the sky, the river bed becomes wider and more shallow, dotted with natural Jacuzzis, splashy slides, and intimate pools. Shaded, peaceful, and invigorating, it is a popular area for mid-day family gatherings when the relentless coastal sun becomes too much to bear.
Although in summer Asco receives a good deal of tourists you can always find your private corner of paradise beyond the next river bend.
GENOESE BRIDGE – FAMOUS SWIMMING SPOT
One of the most beautiful places for a cooling dip is the sapphire-hued deep river canyon under the 15th-century Genoese Bridge in the village of Asco. It used to be accessible by car but now the road is off-limits to vehicles. To reach this picture-perfect swimming spot follow on foot a twisting 1-kilometer-long road to the river branching from the main D147 at the exit of the village.
CANYONING IN ASCO
Gorges d’Asco is one of Corsica’s prime canyoning destinations. In the mineral rocky universe shaped by nature, you can swim, hike, climb, jump, and abseil while descending the river during this thrilling, fun activity.
Adapted to suit all skill levels aquatic hikes vary in difficulty degree and duration. The whole experience, with transfer and preparation, may take half a day, the equipment and accompaniment of a professional guide are included in the price. While canyoning is unsuitable for pregnant women, and people with serious medical conditions or back problems, the candidates must be able to swim.
In Terra Corsa organizes diverse Asco aqua adventures for children aged 7 and older, teenagers, and adults with rates of €50-€55 per person.
ASCO VIA FERRATA
The beautiful Adventure Course based in Asco offers several routes combining Via Ferrata with ladders, suspended bridges, and zip lines in the captivating scenery of the Asco River valley.
The easiest activities are available for children aged 6 with prices ranging from €32-€49 while 4-hour-long expert courses start at €49 and can only be navigated by teenagers and adults. You can also book a private Via Ferrata tour with a guide. Find detailed information at https://interracorsa.com/en/activites-corse/adventure-course/.
Bear in mind that in summer the rock heats up and radiates warmth. Bring plenty of water to quench thirst and use sun protection. To conclude your adventure, jump into a cool river pool to reward your efforts.
4X4 DAY TOUR OF ASCO FROM CALVI OR ILE ROUSSE
Explore the mesmerizing Asco Valley on a 4×4 day tour with pickup in Balagne. Discover one of the most beautiful corners in Corsica at the foot of its highest mountain, Monte Cinto, and enjoy a 2-hour break for a refreshing dip in crystal-clear river water. Your guide provides commentary in French and English. Book your activity here.
HIKING IN ASCO
Haut’Asco is Corsica’s hot spot for high-altitude hiking with some of Europe’s most revered trails crossing the valley. The famous GR20 route takes travelers from the azure Mediterranean coast straight into snow-covered alpine scenery with a range of 2000-meter-high mountains soaring above the picturesque gorge. Although it is Monte Cinto, the island’s highest summit that attracts the largest number of adventurers each year, other peaks are also popular with visitors.
The hiking infrastructure in Corsica is well developed with clearly marked trails and a good refuge base. Beware of the weather though as in high mountains it can change rapidly. August brings violent storms that arrive suddenly swelling dangerously the water in local rivers.
GR20
Asco-Stagnu is an important stopover for the famous long-distance GR20 hike crossing the island diagonally from Calenzana in northern Corsica to Conca in the south. Having completed the 6 km-long stage 3 of the trail, the fatigued hikers replenish supplies and recharge batteries in the local refuge.
The red and white-marked route running west from the ski station leads to Bacca a i Stagni (2010m). From there you can continue via the GR20 trail to the next Bocca di a Muvrella (1860m) pass or follow the cairned path to the summit of Punta Muvrella (2148m) with unparalleled views of Monte Cinto’s north face.
The first stretch of GR20’s fourth stage follows the trail towards Monte Cinto with its beginning opposite Hotel Le Chalet. The initial part runs through beautiful Laricio pine-carpeted territory to Cirque de Trombolacciu where some of Corsica’s highest peaks cradle mouflon-frequented alpine slopes. The scenic site by a small footbridge in front of an imposing waterfall is a popular picnic spot. From there, the ascent steepens leading to Refuge de Tighjettu and Bergeries de Vallone.
MONTE CINTO
Corsica’s most iconic ascent of its highest mountain, Monte Cinto (2706m), starts at the Asco-Stagnu car park opposite Le Chalet. From the trailhead, a tasking 6 km route to the summit gains 1400 m, ending with an awe-inspiring 360° panorama of beautiful Mediterranean landscapes.
This technical, rock-strewn climb can only be attempted by experienced hikers well acquainted with difficult high-mountain trails.
The climbing season lasts from May to October although snow can linger in shaded parts of the slopes even until the beginning of July. Allow 7-10 hours to finish the ascent.
Learn more about climbing Monte Cinto.
WINTERSPORTS IN ASCO
The first snowfall of the season announces the approaching arrival of Corsica’s beautiful winter. From trekking snow-covered trails to going down the slopes, the island offers many opportunities to have fun in the cold.
SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING
Asco-Stagnu (1422m) situated at the end of the cul-de-sac valley road is home to a small ski station popular among the Corsicans. First opened in 1964, it now operates during short winter intervals when there is enough snow cover to facilitate skiing. Equipped with 1 magic carpet, 1 t-bar lift, and 1 rope lift, the petite station offers two 600-meter slopes and a 100-meter-long stretch for beginners. Prices for a day’s use start at €20. On-site, you can rent skiing equipment, snowshoes, and sleighs.
At the base, you can purchase light meals and drinks in one of the Asco-Stagnu restaurants. If you visit the valley in winter, try the delicious Figatellu served in a crusty baguette accompanied by a glass of Pietra.
SNOWSHOE HIKING
Snow-covered grandiose landscapes of the Asco Valley provide exceptional conditions and a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy snowshoeing just a stone’s throw away from the paradisiacal aquamarine beaches of the coast.
To explore the alpine scenery of Asco you can follow the GR20 trail going south toward the Cirque de Trimbolacciu waterfall, or even better yet, climb the ski station slope to reach a beautiful windswept plateau encircled by tall walls of Asco’s iconic summits. Before setting out be sure to check weather forecasts to avoid storms.
VILLAGES IN ASCO VALLEY
MOLTIFAO
Accessed via D47 from the Asco route, the stone-built village of Moltifao occupies a hill above the valley. Its origins go back to the 15th century when Sepula and Cheta, two later-abandoned villages were founded on the slopes of the A Cima Di Modicu summit.
Moltifao’s parish church was erected at the end of the 15th century but the bell tower was not completed until 1750. Inside you will find 18th-century paintings (Last Supper, Virgin and Child, Saint Anthony), a 17th-century statue of Christ on the cross and a marbled Madona di u banditu dating back to 1647. A carved wooden tabernacle was created at the end of the 16th century.
1.5 km north of Moltifao is Couvent de Caccia, a former Franciscan monastery now serving as burial grounds, an eerie place where overgrown ruins of the Gothic-style building echo its former glory. The adjacent viewing point opens up to all-encompassing panoramas of the valley.
ASCO
The village of Asco is located mid-way through the winding D147 route ascending towards the Asco-Stagnu ski resort. As no public transport services this isolated hamlet, you have to rely on your personal means of conveyance.
Perched at 600 meters above sea level on maquis-covered rocky slopes Asco dates back to the 11th century but the road leading to the gorges was not open until 1968. Inhabitants of the remote enclave cultivated pastoral farming producing cheese, wool, linen, hemp, and tobacco.
Today, the local population continues to craft top-quality honey, charcuterie, and cheese, but tourism has become the main source of income and the basis of the economy. As part of the Regional Natural Park of Corsica, the valley serves as a mecca for hikers and adventure sports enthusiasts with exciting outdoor activities and attractions available at each bend of the river.
The village’s cultural and religious landmarks include the Church of Saint Michel Archangel a War Memorial and the Chapel of Sant’Angelo located in the northern part of Asco.
The most famous bathing spot in the vicinity is under the 15th-century Genoese bridge below the village.
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TURTLE SANCTUARY IN MOLTIFAO
At the entrance of the Asco Gorge in the commune of Moltifao, Villege des Tortues- a turtle sanctuary spreads over an area of 10 hectares. Dedicated especially to the only terrestrial species in France, the endangered Hermann’s tortoise, it aims to raise awareness about the need for its conservation and repopulation in natural habitats. Visitors may also admire turtles from around the world, and visit the hatchery and the nursery.
Particularly suited to entertain and inform children who are allowed to handle the delightful animals, this interesting attraction is available in season between 9 am and 5 pm. The visit lasts around 1 hour with prices from €2.50-€5.
4X4 DAY TOUR OF ASCO FROM CALVI OR ILE ROUSSE
Explore the mesmerizing Asco Valley on a 4×4 day tour with pickup in Balagne. Discover one of the most beautiful corners in Corsica at the foot of its highest mountain, Monte Cinto, and enjoy a 2-hour break for a refreshing dip in crystal-clear river water. Your guide provides commentary in French and English. Book your activity here.
GASTRONOMY – LOCAL SPECIALTIES
Ancient pastoral traditions thrive to this day in the remote Asco wonderland. The scattered local population lives off the land that is home to some of the most authentic culinary traditions. Excellent cheese, charcuterie, and honey are made according to time-tested ancient methods by land-devoted skilled artisans.
LOCAL SPECIALTIES TO TRY
- Fresh (available from January to July) or matured goat’s cheese at a dairy farm located 300 meters past the Asco village.
- Characteristic local honey sourced from wild mountain flowers available at La Miellerie d’Asco at the entrance of Asco. Children will appreciate chestnut-flour crepes and honey ice cream.
- Cabri Rōti Corse, tender Corsican goat roasted with rosemary and garlic at the Le Pont Genois restaurant. If this traditional Corsican dish is sold out try veal. Enjoy spectacular valley views from the terrace.
ACCOMMODATION AND RESTAURANTS IN ASCO
For the best experience of authentic, outdoorsy pleasures of Gorges d’Asco extend your visit to a few days. In the untouched, grandiose scenery of this incredible mountain valley, you will forget that you are in the middle of the Mediterranean and travel back in time to the pastoral roots of the Corsican culture. The Asco accommodation is very limited but if you do find a place available in one of the following venues, you will appreciate the remoteness and peace of the mass tourism-free getaway.
- E Cime – comfortable, modern rooms and apartments with arresting views across the valley. Located in the Asco village the hotel also serves great local food in a friendly atmosphere.
- l’Acropole – located in the middle of the valley in Asco the hotel offers simple clean rooms with beautiful views. In the restaurant, you may try local specialties such as wild boar or lasagna with brocciu.
- Le Chalet – created in 1964 in Asco-Stagnu, this alpine-feel hotel has just been renovated. Its comfortable 22 rooms are equipped with a bathroom and toilette while the downstairs restaurant provides lovely homemade dishes. Very welcoming service.
- Monte-Cinto campsite – nestled in the heart of a Larico pine forest in the upper valley it is directly bordered by the river. Very peaceful, shaded spaces will allow you to disconnect and get away from it all in the midst of virgin nature.
HELPFUL TRAVEL RESOURCES
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