Hike to exceptionally beautiful panoramic views of the coastal peak of Capo d’Orto located on Corsica’s rugged west coast.
Rising 1294 m above the iconic scenery of the Gulf of Porto the second highest summit of the Calanches de Piana offers an exhilarating 12 km trek available all year round.
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CAPO D’ORTO – LOCATION
The summit of Capo d’Orto overlooks emblematic landscapes of Corsica’s west coast where scenic landmarks such as the Nature Reserve of Scandola, Girolata, the Calanches de Piana, or the fragrant Spelunca gorge draw nature enthusiasts for an unforgettable experience.
The departure point of the hike is located 10 km south of Porto or 1.7 km north of the village of Piana on the coastal road D81.
You may park your car at the football pitch at the exit of the village just off the scenic D81. Cross a small footbridge situated across the sports field and turn right, as indicated by a sign, to begin the trail.
CAPO D’ORTO – TRAIL
Reaching the rocky face of the Capo d’Orto summit requires a vertical elevation gain of 900 m over a distance of 6 km. The 12 km long round trip takes around 5.5 h while the overall level of difficulty is considered moderate/difficult with some steep sections present along the hike.
The trail starts from the footbridge at the far end of the sports field and meanders up a densely forested first section.
In around one hour you will reach Bocca di’Piazza Monica (910 m) where at the junction you need to turn right. Orange waymarks will escort you to the second intersection where, as signposted, the route turns left.
The last one-hour-long section of the trail dotted with cairns climbs up steeply before presenting you with the best viewpoint of the area.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- Capo d’Orto climbing season lasts year-round although the hot midday period in summer months is best avoided.
- Check weather reports before starting your hike to avoid being caught on exposed ridges in stormy conditions.
- Beware of undertaking the route if it’s raining. In humid foggy conditions, the rocks become slippery making the climb dangerous.
- In favorable dry conditions, it’s an accessible hike for anyone in good physical health involving an occasional use of hands.
- Appropriate hiking shoes and a hat protecting your head and neck from harmful UV rays are essential.
- Be sure to bring plenty of drinking water with you (min 1.5 l per person) as fresh water sources found along the trail may run dry in summer.
- A high-calorie/ high-fat snack can give a much-needed energy boost along the way.
- Whilst parking in the area is free, the parking spaces are limited.
BOOK A BOAT TRIP TO SCANDOLA AND CALANCHES DE PIANA FROM PORTO
- Scandola Reserve and Girolata boat trip. A 3 to 4-hour-long boat journey to the iconic coast with a 30-minute stop in the village of Girolata. The boat is equipped with comfortable shaded areas whereas the information leaflet is available in French, English, and Italian. Learn more and book here.
- Calanches de Piana, Scandola and Girolata boat tour. A 3-hour-long exciting excursion to the landmarks of the northwest coast of Corsica. A small semi-rigid allows to enter caves and navigate close to the cliffs. Learn more and book here.
- Capo Rosso, Calanches de Piana and Scandola boat tour. A 3-hour-long trip on a family-friendly boat to the Scandola Reserve and Calanches de Piana. During your excursion, you will enjoy a swimming break. Snorkeling gear is provided and the vessel is adapted for children. Learn more and book here.
Sweeping Mediterranean panoramas reward the strenuous hike to the Capo d’Orto summit!
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