Renowned for its extraordinary mountain scenery the Bavella drive is one of the most popular attractions in Corsica. Abounding with famous scenic sights, this unforgettable 75 km long route passes through a showcase of the island’s diverse landscapes. From dramatic rock formations and majestic forests to deep gorges carved by rushing torrents, with the journey’s crown jewel- Aiguilles de Bavella, tall red granite pinnacles forming Corsica’s archetypal landmark.
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SCENIC BAVELLA DRIVE
The island’s most iconic mountain drive meanders through the astonishingly beautiful scenery of Alta Rocca, a southern mid-mountain territory located within the Regional Natural Park of Corsica.
The journey starts out in Porto Vecchio, the largest city on the south-east coast, where the winding D368 road begins to climb slowly into the dense forests of L’Ospedale. Halfway into the trip, from the village of Zonza, D268 continues to run north towards Col de Bavella (1218 m), a celebrated mountain pass marking the highest point of the tour. The drive ends in Solenzara, a picturesque port town with a charming marina and a large sandy beach.
This exhilarating 75 km long trip may be completed in 2 hours, although it is worth setting aside plenty of time for exploring natural marvels dotting the area. The road is entirely paved and of good quality allowing cars to pass by comfortably. Fairly straight at the beginning, it soon becomes more twisty with many hairpin bends, revealing truly wonderful sights at each turn. Along the way, there are numerous bays for stopping whereas several, both paid and unpaid car parks offer spaces near the main attractions.
With plenty of shade amid the wooded slopes of Alta Rocca picnic places are plentiful. Even in high season, visitors may find a secluded spot to relax and cool off in the pure water of jewel-colored river pools. Outdoor enthusiasts may also enjoy exciting hikes along numerous trails crossing the region whereas natural sights near the route belong to some of Corsica’s hallmark destinations.
SCENIC BAVELLA DRIVE – ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
L’OSPEDALE VIEWING POINT
From the main T10 road in Porto Vecchio, the D368 route snakes up for 16 km to L’Ospedale, the first mountain village situated 900 m above sea level. In its northern part, a small panoramic platform affords spectacular views across the entire Gulf of Porto Vecchio to Sardinia.
LAC DE L’OSPEDALE
4 km further north, a serene oasis of Lariccio pine and beech trees perfectly reflect in the pristine waters of the artificial Lake l’Ospedale. The fabulous 733 h forest is a sanctuary for numerous endemic flora and fauna species while the dam provides drinking water to the extreme-sud region. In spring, when filled, it can hold up to 3 million cubic meters of water.
The enchanting surroundings of the lake provide numerous outdoor sports opportunities including hiking, tree climbing, or cycling. A rewarding walk to Punta di a Vacca Morta (1300 m) offers a breathtaking 360° panorama stretching as far as Sardinia’s rugged shores. The trail begins in the village of Cartalavone at the car park by the Le Refuge restaurant.
WATERFALL PISCIA DI GALLU
2 km north of the l’Ospedale dam starts a refreshing walk to Piscia di Gallu, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Corsica cascading 70 m down a vertiginous rocky wall. A 4.6 km round trip takes around 2 hours. Its first half runs in a cooling shade of Lariccio pines accompanied by soothing sounds of the nearby river. The final rocky stretch descends sharply to a small viewing point open to the imposing glory of the cascade. As Piscia di Gallu faces east it is best lit by the warm rays of the morning sun. A large paid car park located on the right side of the road is also home to a few welcoming restaurants serving meals and refreshments.
ZONZA
Grey granite houses lean against rocky blocks in the charming mountain village of Zonza located 15 km further north on D268. Mecca among hikers and outdoor sports lovers, this lively hamlet makes a perfect base for exploring the ravishing landscapes of Alta Rocca. A small grocery store offers a range of essential products while sunny terraces of local restaurants invite visitors to relax with a glass of wine.
COL DE BAVELLA
Corsica’s famous mountain pass (1218 m) is dominated by Aiguilles de Bavella, majestic granite needles towering above the Alta Rocca region. Outstandingly beautiful, the rocky pinnacles light up at sunset in an array of vivid colors and deep shadows. When shrouded in mist with clouds rolling over the summits, the massif transforms into a mesmerizing wonder inspiring reverence and a sense of awe. At the foot of this rocky universe a snow-white marble statue of Notre-Dame-des Neiges, a patron saint of Bavella, overlooks the pass offering her blessing to visiting pilgrims.
A large 120-space car park located at the foot of the Needles costs 5 euros (it is free off-season) whereas a convivial restaurant Les Aiguilles de Bavella serves excellent home-made food in a friendly atmosphere with a five-star view of the mountains.
Col de Bavella is also a starting point for numerous scenic hikes catering to all levels of fitness, from easy family walks to the mythical Alpine variant of GR20. Footpaths are well-marked and easily accessible. The most popular walk to the Trou de la Bombe is a 3-hour round trip starting at the Auberge du Col. Allow 2 hours for the Croix de Leccia, a more challenging trek that requires good hiking shoes. A trail to Refuge de Paliri, a mountain hut with a view of Punta Tafonata, follows the white and red markings of the GR20 route offering beautiful vistas and glorious Corsican vegetation.
Practical tip: In summer months, the busiest time of the season, when the windy mountain road is overwhelmed by the influx of visitors, you may leave your vehicle at the Viséo 360-space car park (located 5.6 km south-west of Bavella) and use free shuttle service to transport you to the pass.
CASCADES DE POLISCHELLU
The road continues to zigzag down for another 9 km to the Polischellu Waterfalls, a superb bathing spot favoured by families with small children who enjoy gliding down the rocky slides. To reach the river leave your vehicle at a paid car park situated on the right-hand side of the D268 road ( <5h – 5€, >5h – 12€) and walk back up another 200 m to a small bridge where you will find an access point. The most popular waterfall gushing down to a deep emerald pool is located up the stream within a few minutes walk along the path beside the river. In high season, this lovely site gets busy with organized canyoning groups jumping into the torrent.
CASCADES DE PURCARACCIA
Update: A prefectural decree issued in August 2021 temporarily restricted access to the Purcaraccia Canyon only allowing groups accompanied and supervised by an authorized professional. The site previously frequented by up to 1200 visitors daily is neither marked nor secured. In recent years the number of accidents has risen including two fatalities in 2021. You may consult the official information on the decree by clicking the following link https://www.corse-du-sud.gouv.fr/restriction-temporaire-d-acces-au-canyon-de-la-a2823.html.
17 km before the village of Solenzara are Cascades de Purcaraccia, a fascinating canyon carved by the river into a succession of natural emerald pools linked by crashing waterfalls and slick water slides. A breathtaking spectacle of unspoilt nature, Purcaraccia is Corsica’s most famous destination for professional canyoning excursions offered by various providers.
To get to the cascades, park the car at Bocca di Larone on D268. Walk back for about 200 m to the first hairpin bend where a clearing in the shrub leads to a path exposed to arresting views of the Bavella Needles. The first basin of the canyon is located 40 min into the hike, past the rock of Tafoni. The trail becomes more challenging towards the end therefore good shoes are indispensable. Due to its unprecedented beauty, the site gets very busy in peak season although the water stays very cold even in the summer months.
BAVELLA AND OSPEDALE FOREST 4×4 TOUR
Set out on an unforgettable excursion to the magical Ospedale Forest and the Needels of Bavella departing from Porto-Vecchio. This 8-hour journey guarantees sublime mountainous scenery of Corsica’s rugged interior where wild pigs roam free and the humming of freshwater torrents is ever-present. A traditional Corsican meal is included in the price. Click here to learn more about this exciting tour and book tickets.
GUIDED HIKING TOUR IN THE AIGUILLES DE BAVELLA MASSIF
Enjoy a guided hiking tour to explore the classic landscapes at Col de Bavella. The excursion starts at the Bavella pass by the statue of Notre-Dame-des-Neiges. You may choose a half-a-day or a full-day scenic walk at the foot of the famous granite Needles. A meal composed of local produce is available as an option. To learn more and book tickets in advance click here.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- To make the most of your trip plan sightseeing beforehand. As the region abounds with natural beauty it is worth determining which outdoor attractions you would like to include in your tour to best manage the time.
- Since there are no petrol stations along the scenic route make sure to fill up your car before setting off. However, if you do find yourself short of fuel well into your drive the nearest garage is located in the village of Levie.
- Drive carefully as native animals inhabiting the territory are known to traverse the road.
- In summer the route gets busy with traffic. Visiting Bavella outside of high season grants a more peaceful experience.
- You may choose to start your journey in Solenzara and follow the road running south to Porto Vecchio, although the more popular south-north option opens up to more spectacular vistas.
- Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable with clouds forming very quickly. The Bavella pass is particularly exposed to icy easterly winds and cold mists. Carry additional layers of clothing to brave the elements.
- High-altitude conditions call for special protection from strong sunlight. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen shield from harmful rays.
- Comfortable hiking shoes are essential on the rocky terrain of mountain trails.
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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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