Walking Mare e Monti – Corsica

Itinerary – Walking Corsica Mare e Monti

DAY 1: ARRIVAL – Calvi
Welcome by your France Outdoors guide at Bastia airport, you will be transfered to the 3 star hotel Saint Christophe by private bus ( around 1h30). In central Calvi, the hotel Saint-Christophe has an unbeatable seaside location and Swimming pool. The port town of Calvi, in the Balagne region of north-west Corsica, boasts the intrigue of traditional Corsican culture while effortlessly maintaining the comforts of a modern resort. You will find picturesque views of nature’s scenic beauty at every turn, and there are many enjoyable places to spend time both in Calvi itself and the surrounding region, perfect region for hiking. Calvi is also a magnet for the yacht-owning super-rich, who sail from Nice or Cannes. In the lush Balagne, unspoilt mountain villages produce superb wine, cheese, olive oil and wild boar sausage!
Dinner included.

Day 2 : Tracks to Ile Rousse
Travel ancient routes to the attractive coastal town of Île Rousse, enjoying panoramic views of the countryside and the coast. The walk visits the hilltop village of San Antonino, said to be the jewel in the crown of the Balagne region. Île Rouse awaits us with its long sandy beaches. The town square, shaded by plain trees is a good choice for refreshments before returning to Calvi.
Breakfast and dinner included. Picnic Lunch not included.

Day 3 : Famous routes to Calenzana
The remote area of Bonifatu is the starting point for the walk today. Cross the Figarella River to meet the famous long distance path Mare e Monti, (Sea to Mountain). This route is dramatic with far reaching views of the mountains. Possibility to ascend to meet the GR20 (Grand  Route) to be rewarded with views to the Bay of Calvi. Finish in the village of Calenzana where we may explore its traditional square with church and bell tower.
Breakfast and dinner included. Picnic Lunch not included.

Day 4 : Speloncato to Santa Reparata di Balagna
As we make our way up the winding road to the lofty position of the town of Speloncato, you can’t help but be impressed by its splendour. From its charming fountain in the centre of the town we set off along the alleyways and through the tunnels which we will take to the point where the town sits onto the rock. Our route is laid before us. We cross the valley through farm land to pass the shimmering waters of Lac di Codole before ascending on an old mule track to the town of Santa Reparata di Balagna.
Breakfast and dinner included. Picnic Lunch not included.

Day 5 : Free day
Explore Calvi Marina, an enjoyable place to view with the many luxury boats and bright fishing boats as they arrive and depart. You can visit the Citadel, main part of the town, and its most important historical monument. It was a military outpost in the 15th century that helped guard the city against international attacks. The citadel sits high above Calvi port from where it towers over the sea. Finally if the sea permits you can also enjoy an incredible boat trip to the natural reserve of Scandola or just enjoy a day at the beach.
Breakfast included. Lunch and dinner not included.

Day 6 : The Garden of Corsica
The Balagne region is known as the garden of Corsica, and it’s through this wonderful garden with its historic villages, monasteries and convents that we walk today. The walk begins today at the Convent de Corbara. We visit the long abandoned village of Occi, which is only accessible on foot, to finish the day on the terrace at the village of Lumio for more stunning views.
Breakfast and dinner included. Picnic Lunch not included.

Day 7 : Revellata
Walk from the hotel to the Chapel of Notre Dame de la Serra which is perched high above Calvi. Enjoy the breath taking scenery before descending to the Bay of Revellata for refreshments and a swim. Extension possible to Revellata headland before returning to Calvi.
Breakfast and dinner included. Picnic Lunch not included.

Day 8 : FAREWELL!!
Transfer to Bastia airport.
Breakfast included.