The Cavu Valley in southeast Corsica shelters a true natural wonder- crystalline river pools carved into elements-shaped granite, inviting visitors to take a dip in the rejuvenating emerald waters.
The surrounding scenery creates a perfect background for this fabulous aquatic playground. Rugged mountains of the Alta Rocca Massif tower over the gently flowing torrent while majestic pine forests cloaking the banks grant much-desired shade in the height of the summer season.
This irresistibly unspoilt destination is surprisingly easy to access allowing holidaymakers visiting the region of Porto Vecchio and Bonifacio to find wilderness and serenity away from the hustle and bustle of the coast.
Read on to learn all you need to know about the swimming pools of Cavu and plan an unforgettable journey into the wild heart of Corsica.
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LOCATION AND ACCESS
Natural pools of Cavu are located in the Cavu Valley in the Porto Vecchio region of southeast Corsica. This stunning destination belongs to the Regional Natural Park of Corsica known for emblematic natural landmarks such as Bavella Needels, the Trou de la Bombe rock, Purcaraccia Waterfalls, or Plateau de Coscione.
Located only 20 km from Porto Vecchio and 48 km from Bonifacio, the pools can be accessed via the RT10 road followed by D168A from Sainte Lucie de Porto Vecchio.
BOOK THE BAVELLA 4×4 TOUR
- Set out on a thrilling excursion to the magical Ospedale Forest and the Needels of Bavella departing from Porto-Vecchio. This 8-hour adventure guarantees the arresting mountainous scenery of Corsica’s wild interior. A traditional Corsican meal is included in the price.
PARKING
Once you reach the Cavu site you may leave your vehicle at a very spacious car park located right next to the river. From the beginning of May to the end of October, you will be charged €1.70 per hour with a maximum day fee of €10 (rates for 2024). The ticket loss costs €15 and between 9 pm and 6 am parking is forbidden.
At the car park, you will find toilets and a tourist information point.
The first natural pools are accessible directly from the parking area via a clearing leading to the river. But to get to the famous Les 3 Piscines spot you need to continue on foot along the road parallel to the riverbed for another 1.4 km. If you don’t fancy walking, use a free shuttle service to cover the distance.
SHUTTLE SERVICE
In season, a free shuttle service runs connections between the car park and the popular Les 3 Piscines site allowing visitors to reach their destination comfortably and quickly.
The mini-bus leaves every 20 minutes with an hour’s break at 2:20 pm. The last transit is at 6:10 pm.
Along the way, the driver often picks up people who have already set out on foot but prefer to get a ride, provided that there are still spaces available in the vehicle.
LES 3 PISCINES RESTAURANT
Once you get off the bus, on the road leading to the natural pools you will find a beautifully-set restaurant with shaded terraces and scenic views of the river and mountains. Traditional Corsican specialities (with charcuterie sourced locally) and refreshing drinks are on the menu. Look out for posters advertising the Corsican evenings with live music and traditional singing often organized at the venue.
LES 3 PISCINES NATURAL POOLS
The first attraction, Les 3 Piscines site, is known for its spectacular beauty featuring a scenic succession of sapphire-hued natural pools separated by giant granite slabs. Lush vegetation and rocky peaks cradle the river fostering a sublime sanctuary of untouched, awe-inspiring marvels.
In summer, the water temperature is very pleasant, much warmer than in Restonica or Asco, but not as balmy as in the Fango River. With different pool depths, bathing may be adapted to various swimming abilities and ages. The torrent is calm allowing families with young children to enjoy water recreation in comfortable conditions.
Les 3 Piscines pools can be easily reached via wide rocky steps descending from the path behind the restaurant but people with reduced mobility may find the access challenging. In July and August, the site gets busy due to its approachable position.
LE PONT DE MARION NATURAL POOLS
500 meters further along the valley is Le Pont de Marion, a charming bridge spanning the Cavu River above strikingly green granitic pools perfect for swimming. Much less frequented than Les 3 Piscines, this wild destination is famed for beautifully carved narrow canyons where the water heats up making bathing truly relaxing.
Due to high rocks and more challenging access to the pools via a steepish path next to the bridge, Le Pont de Marion location is not adapted to children younger than 7 or people with mobility difficulties.
BEST TIME TO VISIT CAVU NATURAL POOLS
SPRING
Spring is a great time to enjoy the swimming pools of Cavu. After the winter rainfall (or even snowfall) the torrent rushes through the riverbed adding exuberance and thrill to the adventure.
At this time of the year, Corsica is much less crowded than in summer making it a perfect period for anyone seeking tranquility and relaxation amid beautiful scenery. The downside is that the river water is still quite cool making dips much more invigorating.
SUMMER
In July and August, Cavu welcomes the largest number of visitors looking for freshwater fun in the mountains. Due to pleasant temperatures, swimming is thoroughly enjoyable making the activity suitable for families with younger children.
However, be prepared for bigger crowds and a less peaceful ambience.
AUTUMN
Corsica’s gentle autumnal aura transforms Cavu into a peaceful haven where warm late-season sun rays bathe translucent pools in its golden light. Hikers who have completed the famous long-distance GR20 trail are particularly drawn to the river’s refreshing water at this time.
WINTER
If you happen to visit south Corsica in winter Cavu may be a great place to call upon- crowd and buzz-free, the valley’s wilderness reveals itself in all its glory. Water will most likely be too cold for you to swim but an al-fresco lunch on the river’s bank will leave you with lasting memories.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- One of your best friends in Corsican rivers is water footwear specially designed to drain easily, grip to wet surfaces, and dry quickly (I use KEEN Whisper or KEEN Newport H2 closed-toe sandals).
- Accessing Cavu, just like any other river on the islands, in bad weather conditions may be dangerous. Flash floods during storms are not uncommon. Read more about risks and hazards in Corsica.
- Stay vigilant on wet, slippery rock surfaces to avoid falls and accidents.
- When swimming, use a non-polluting sunscreen.
- To maintain water safety do not pee in the river, toilets are available on-site. The quality of bathing waters is regularly checked (especially for parasite contamination) but you may consult the official website https://baignades.sante.gouv.fr/baignades/editorial/en/accueil.html.
- You may bring your pet on a lead, however, dogs are not allowed to enter the water.
- Building dams and barriers with stones is forbidden.
- In case of fire risk, access to the site is blocked off.
FIND THE BEST WINES OF THE REGION
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Corsica Wine Guide – from vine to glass
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OTHER ATTRACTIONS IN THE AREA
- Glorious turquoise-water beaches around Porto Vecchio
- The fashionable seaside resort of Porto Vecchio
- Genoese watchtower at the Fautea beach
- The charming village of Solenzara
- Dramatic mountain landscapes at Bavella
- Bonifacio– a medieval clifftop town
- Superb wines of South Corsica
- Arresting Lavezzi Islands located south of Bonifacio.
BOOK A BOAT TRIP
- Lavezzi Archipelago sightseeing cruise from Porto Vecchio. Discover the stunning Lavezzi Archipelago and Iles Cerbicales on a sightseeing tour from Porto-Vecchio. You will enjoy birdwatching beside the rocks and swimming in transparent waters. The trip takes 4 hours and snorkeling gear is provided.
- Boat trip in the Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve from Bonifacio. Visit the Bonifacio National Park on a speedboat tour to some of the most mesmerizing corners of Corsica. Admire the Genoese tower of Capicciolu, the Lavezzi Archipelago with its idyllic beaches, and the Bay of Fazzio. Swim in crystal-clear waters to discover the fascinating marine life.
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