Enjoy a gentle walk to Cascades des Anglais, a succession of picturesque waterfalls set at the foot of Monte d’Oro in central Corsica.
In the late 19th century translucent pools of the Agnone River became a favoured picnic spot for the British aristocracy. Exhausted by the heat of coastal areas, the ex-pats residing in Ajaccio headed to the mountains to cool off by the watershed.
To this day, this enchanting place shaded by old beeches and Laricio pines of Foret de Vizzavona serves as one of the area’s most pre-eminent tourist attractions.
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LOCATION
Cascades des Anglais (1092 m) are located in the heart of Corsica near Col de Vizzavona in the municipality of Vivario.
The trail is easily accessible from the main T20 road linking Ajaccio, the capital of the island, with Bastia.
The quickest route to the waterfalls starts opposite Auberge Muntagnera 800 m north of the Vizzavona mountain pass and its large car park.
The longer yet equally popular trail variant following the GR20 waymarks begins in the village of Vizzavona by A Casa di a Natura near the train station. Both options abound in unspoilt landscapes of the Vizzavona forest with the imposing views of Monte d’Oro.
FORET DE VIZZAVONA – ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL FORESTS IN CORSICA
River Agnone that forms the magnificent Cascades Des Anglais flows down the rocky mass in the heart of Foret de Vizzavona. Largely populated by beeches and Laricio pine trees, this immense forest, known as one of the most attractive wooded regions on the island, is set in central Corsica between Bastia and Ajaccio.
Covering an area of 1634 hectares at the foot of Monte d’Oro (2389m) and Punta dell’Oriente (2112m), it is home to various endemic flora and fauna species. From spring to late autumn the fragile ecosystems of this protected territory are under vigilant surveillance by firefighters and local rangers.
GR20, Corsica’s most famous hiking trail, traverses Foret de Vizzavona, with the waterfalls marking a relaxing stopover for tired travelers. There are also other inspiring paths and trails to explore accessible for all ages and abilities.
TRAIL TO CASCADES DES ANGLAIS
The round trip to Cascades des Anglais via the most frequented variant covers 3 km taking up to 1 hour of walking. With an elevation gain of around 100 m, the difficulty of this scenic trek is classified as easy and suitable for families or amateur walkers.
The hike starts opposite Auberge Muntagnera on the T20 road north of Col de Vizzavona. If you find available safe spaces you may leave your car by the road, however, there is also a large car park located at the pass.
The first part of the route following green waymarks descends to the river through fragrant Foret de Vizzavona.
At Passerelle de l’Agnone, a small bridge crossing the river, the piste merges with the iconic GR20 trail indicated with white and red paint. By the stream, the terrain becomes rockier with wet, slippery surfaces requiring mindful treading.
From there you may continue your way up the torrent to fully explore the whole series of cascades. Crystal-clear fresh spring water collecting in natural swimming pools grants much-needed refreshment during the hottest months.
To get back to your car, follow the same route, or, alternatively, return via a narrow path running across the wooded slope from the uppermost waterfall to the main road.
If you fancy a longer hike, you may start your trip at A Casa di a Natura in the village of Vizzavona. From there a 7 km long round trip following the GR20 trail takes around 2 hours. Crossing two bridges, the route follows the Agnone River exposing travelers to exhilarating Corsican nature.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- Strong footwear is essential for rocky parts of the hike near the river. If you plan a refreshing dip in cool stream water, appropriate water shoes may provide better traction on wet granite surfaces.
- In summer, carry a minimum of 1.5 l of water per person. Healthy snacks will ensure much-needed energy to fuel your adventure.
- Don’t forget to pack up towels and bathing suits in your rucksack.
- Although the forest provides plenty of shade, carry adequate sun protection- sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen, against excessive UV radiation.
- With abundant water from freshly melted snow rushing down the eroded rock, spring is the best time to admire Cascades des Anglais in all their glory. Later in the season, the flow of the river declines, and water levels of the natural pools decrease.
- This popular beauty spot receives a large number of visitors throughout the season with the trail being most crowded in August.
HELPFUL TRAVEL RESOURCES :
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All outdoor activities are carried out at your own risk. Always plan ahead and be cautious when preparing for your hikes. 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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