Hike to spectacular views of the Capu Rossu summit, one of the scenic symbols of Corsica’s untamed west coast. This family-friendly year-round hiking destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy a challenge.
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CAPU ROSSU – RENOWNED UNESCO SITE
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Capu Rossu is located in the southern part of the Gulf of Porto, an area known for an imposing amphitheater of red granite cliffs plunging directly into clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The rock itself is 331 m high with the Tour de Turghiu, a beautifully restored Genoese tower dominating Corsica’s most emblematic landscapes.
HOW TO GET THERE
This easy trail starts around 6km west of the Piana village on the D824 road. Around halfway between Piana and the beautiful Arone beach, you will find a large exposed parking area on your right-hand side. At the car park look for a stony path heading west (indicated by the panel of the Conservatoire du Littoral), this is the starting point of your hike.
CAPU ROSSU – TRAIL
The trail begins at the height of 319 m above sea level and slowly descends to 64 m, before climbing sharply at the approach of the rock. The round trip of about 8 km takes about 3-4 hours and although it may involve some easy rock scrambling it generally lacks more technical difficulties.
For most of the hike, the well-maintained path dotted with cairns winds through fragrant Corsican maquis. On the way, you will pass a wooden gate and a tiled pagliaghju– a restored shepherd’s shelter. The ascent itself takes around half an hour and is rather steep, however, breath-taking vistas on top will reward your efforts.
TOUR DE TURGHIU
Perched on the summit of the pink rock, the solitary Tour de Turghiu offers arresting views of imposing mountain peaks with the Paglia Orba massif stretching to the horizon. The wonderful panorama of the Golfe de Porto to the north and Cargèse and the Golfe of Sagone to the south is best viewed in the magic hours of the sunset.
The solitary Tour was built in 1608 as one of the numerous defense towers elevated by the Republic of Genoa to surveil and protect the island against pirate attacks.
This prominent feature of the Corsican coastline has been restored and can be reached via an outside staircase. The views from the platform on top of the tower present an unforgettable 360-degree panorama.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- Due to few technical difficulties involved, the hike is available to anyone in good physical condition and children aged 8-9 years and above.
- With mild Corsican winters, the climb may be undertaken throughout the year. In summer, however, it is best to set off in the morning when the air is still cool and fresh, or in the evening for the most impressive vistas in the golden hour of the setting sun.
- As there is very little shade available along the trail with no water points provided a couple of litters of water per person is recommended.
- A pair of hiking boots and a hat are essential.
- No fees are required at the parking area.
- In season there is a snack bar open in the parking area where you may purchase refreshments after the hike.
- Capu Rossu coordinates N42°14’25’’ E8°35’12’’.
VIEW CAPO ROSSO FROM THE SEA
BOAT TRIP FROM PORTO
- 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.
- Calanches de Piana and Capo Rosso boat trip. A 1.5-hour-long excursion in a silent hybrid boat to visit the highlights of Porto’s scenic coast. The vessel is wheelchair accessible.
BOAT TRIP FROM CARGESE
- Scandola, Girolata and Calanques de Piana day cruise. 7-hour-long trip aboard a comfortable boat with shaded areas, toilets, and a bar. Includes a visit to the most iconic places of the reserve with a 2-hour stop in Girolatta and a break for swimming.
- Discovery tour to Capo Rosso, Scandola, Calanques de Piana, and Girolata. A friendly 6-hour-long cruise to Scandola aboard a medium-sized boat with experienced and attentive sailors. You will enjoy a 2-hour break in the picturesque village of Girolata.
- Calanches de Piana, Scandola, and Girolata boat trip. A 4.5-hour-long speedboat tour of the emblematic scenic sights with a swimming break and a 30-minute stop in Girolata. Commentary may be provided in various languages.
BOAT TRIP FROM SAGONE
- Scandola, Girolata and Calanques de Piana day cruise. 7-hour trip aboard a comfortable boat with shaded areas, toilets, and a bar. Includes a visit to the most iconic places of the reserve with a 2-hour stop in Girolatta and a break for swimming.
- Calanches de Piana, Scandola, and Girolata boat trip. A 4.5-hour-long speedboat tour of the emblematic scenic sights with a swimming break and a 30-minute stop in Girolata. Commentary may be provided in various languages.
BOAT TRIP FROM AJACCIO
- Capo Rosso, Scandola and Girolata boat trip. An 8-hour-long adventure to the coastal scenic site of Scandola. A swimming break at Capu Rossu and a stopover in Girolata are included in the tour.
- Capo Rosso, Scandola and Girolata cruise. A full-day tour to the Scandola Reserve with a 2h stopover in the village of Girolata aboard a comfortable vessel. Other scenic attractions include Capo Rosso and the Calanches.
- Capo Rosso, Scandola Reserve, and Girolata boat tour with an appetizer. A full-day tour to Capo Rosso and Scandola with a stopover in Girolata. During your trip, you will also enjoy a swimming break and a light snack of local produce and wine.
BOAT TRIP FROM PORTICCIO
- Capo Rosso, Scandola and Girolata boat trip. An 8-hour-long adventure to the coastal scenic site of Scandola. A swimming break at Capu Rossu and a stopover in Girolata are included in the tour. Learn more and book tickets here.
- Capo Rosso, Scandola and Girolata cruise. A full-day tour to the Scandola Reserve with a 2h stopover in the village of Girolata aboard a comfortable vessel. Other scenic attractions include Capo Rosso and the Calanches.
BOAT TRIP FROM TIUICCIA
- Boat tour to Capu Rossu, the Calanches, Scandola and Girolata. A 5-hour long trip to the landmarks of the iconic coast aboard a boat equipped with shaded areas and a toilette. You will stop in Girolata and enjoy a swimming break. An underwater video camera is present on board.
IMP TIP : small speedboats are not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, heart problems, or other serious medical conditions. In case of any of the above, choose a larger craft when booking your sea excursion.
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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