Enjoy an invigorating dip in the cool emerald waters of the Restonica River meandering through the luxuriant vegetation of Central Corsica.
Located at the foot of some of the island’s highest peaks this awe-inspiring mountain valley offers perfect relaxation with plenty of shade and fresh air amid soothing sounds of crystal clear water rushing down glorious granite boulders.
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REASTONICA VALLEY – LOCATION
The idyllic Restonica Valley is one of the most popular Corsican destinations due to its remarkable beauty and easy access.
It is located in the heart of the island, just southwest of Corte, Corsica’s historic capital, and can be approached via a scenic route D623.
The spectacular 15 km long drive up the gorge offers breathtaking views at every turn although it is definitely not for the faint-hearted!
In parts, the road is single track with bays for passing while seemingly endless hairpin blind bends and plunging drops might make you feel dizzy. In summer months when heavy traffic goes both ways this thrilling route can get congested- remember to drive with caution and be prepared to give way.
With a gradual elevation gain (960 m) the scenery becomes more dramatic. Along the road, you will find plenty of viewpoints where you may take photos of the sublime mountain panoramas.
The drive ends at the Bergeries de Grotelle (1375 m) where a spacious car park (6€/day in summer) also serves as a starting point for famous hikes to high altitude jewels- Lac de Melo and Lac de Capitello.
IMPORTANT UPDATE- Following heavy rainfall in autumn 2023, parts of the Restonica D623 road have been badly damaged limiting car access to the valley. The authorities are working to prepare hiking trails to Bergeries de Grotelle along the river for the 2024 tourist season. I will post an update as soon as new information becomes available.
VALLEE DE LA RESTONICA
Enchanted landscapes of the Restonica Valley nestled at the foot of the Massif of Rotondo are one of the scenic highlights of Corsica. Craggy mountain peaks provide a picturesque backdrop to ancient maritime pine forests hugging a lively current of the cascading river- an oasis of peace and wilderness.
Restonica has its source at Lake Melo at 1711 m above sea level on Monte Rotondo. It winds along the narrow valley for 18 km before eventually joining the parallel Tavignano near Corte.
Lined with scented pine trees the river is dotted with a multitude of natural pools of cool transparent water perfect for bathing. Eroded rock formations and grey granite boulders scattered along the canyon create natural slides and splashy waterfalls providing endless fun away from the summer heat.
There are numerous parking places along the D623 road running along the gorge where you may leave the vehicle to find your own private emerald beach.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- Lightweight water footwear may be useful in providing traction on wet and slick rock surfaces.
- Always practice caution and check it is safe before jumping off the rock into the natural pool.
- In autumn the valley transforms into hues of yellow and red creating a perfect backdrop for landscape photography.
- While in winter a blanket of freshly fallen snow enhances the wild beauty of Restonica’s astonishing scenery.
- When visiting outside of season prepare various layers of clothing as with altitude the weather may change and temperatures drop.
- In winter when the D623 road is blocked by snow, leave your car next to the Tuani camping and continue your journey up the river on foot.
- There are numerous restaurants along the D623 route where you may enjoy local specialties.
- Apart from several hotels offering accommodation, there is a camping site (Tuani) located 6 km into the gorge.
- In the lower valley, you may purchase delicious local goat’s cheese directly from the producer.
- Depending on the operator, a mobile telephone signal may be unavailable in the valley.
OTHER ACTIVITIES IN RESTONICA
- Enjoy a famous day hike to the Plateau d’Alzo starting at 10.5 km up the valley.
- Set off on a mountain walk to a pair of celebrated glacial lakes- Lac de Melo and Lac de Capitello. The trail starts at the Bergeries de Grotelle located at the end of the D623 road.
- Hike to Monte Rotondo (2622 m), Corsica’s second-highest mountain dominating the region. Start your climb at the 11th kilometer up the valley. The arresting Lac d’Oriente situated at the foot of the summit is a perfect place for a refreshing picnic.
- Enjoy a session of bouldering or rock climbing at one of many locations dotting the picturesque valley.
- Explore the magical winter landscapes of Restonica with snow rockets or snowshoes. Dripping icicles and glistening snow cover reflecting the sunlight grant an archetypal outdoor experience.
- Catch a trout in clear river waters. Make sure to check the local laws beforehand as fishing is a highly regulated sport in France with no-kill sections applicable to the Restonica River. You may purchase a license here www.cartedepeche.fr and find detailed information on the Corsican Fishing Federation site www.dirm.mediterranee.developpement-durable.gouv.fr.
- Visit Corte, a fortress town that served as the island’s capital in the 18th century, perched atop a rocky promontory.
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2 comments
Hello! We are planning a trip this summer, and have 2-3 nights to spend either in Zonza area for hiking there, or 2-3 nights Corte for hiking around that area. We have 3 weeks on the island, and will do a bunch of other sight seeing, but plan to spend 2-3 nights hiking either in Zonza or Corte areas. Between the two, what would you suggest? We will be there in early July with two children ages 6 and 11. I would be so grateful for your opinion. We will also do some hiking in Cap Corse, and Spelunca Gorge near Porto.
Hello Vivian,
Thank you for your question.
The places that you mention are simply magical, I would even describe them as iconic. If you have an opportunity I would advise that you visit both of them.
The Restonica Valley near Corte, with its translucent swimming pools, is a fabulous place for children. A beautiful hike from the end of the scenic Restonica road to Lac de Melo ( https://coolcorsica.com/glorious-trek-to-lac-de-melo-and-lac-de-capitello-in-the-rotondo-massif/ ) is achievable with children, possibly if you take the longer/easier variant. The shorter route has some rock scrambling with the use of chains. The nearby Asco Valley is also a great place for hiking, the surroundings are wilder with the highest Corsican mountains dominating the torrent. A great easy walk to waterfall Radule starts at Col de Verghio. With plenty of shade and stunning cascades, it’s perfect for summer.
As to Zonza, it is a known hiker’s corner. The unforgettable scenery of the Bavella Massif offers many trekking options. Some of the scenic hikes include Cascades de Purcaraccia (now available with a guide due to accidents, too many careless selfies at the rock’s edge), a short walk to a mesmerizing succession of emerald pools, Piscia di Gallu, a very easy forest hike to a 70 m high waterfall, Trou de la Bombe, a known walk with the view of Bavella, but also the famous Alpine variant of GR20
( https://coolcorsica.com/route-de-bavella-the-most-beautiful-mountain-drive-in-corsica/ ). An enchanting place with very easy walks perfect for children is called Plateau de Coscione. It’s a pool-dotted grassy expanse located at the altitude of 1500 m. The access road is in poor condition so if you are renting a car it may be a problem.
If I was to choose I would probably spend a day having fun in fresh waters of the Restonica River near Corte and head to Bavella. It’s very hard to pick just one place though as both are simply sublime.
You may contact me for more information at contact@coolcorsica.com, I will do my best to help you out with planning your time here.
I hope you have lots of fun, Corsica is a truly amazing place for family escapades:)
karola