Explore Corsica’s most beautiful natural panoramas and let yourself be transported by the splendor of its landscapes.
Corsica is bursting with treasures and richly deserves its nickname of « Isle of Beauty ». Between majestic mountains, wild coves and fine sandy beaches, the island offers breathtaking scenery. We’ve selected Corsica’s most beautiful natural panoramas, from north to south, east to west. Here you’ll find some must-sees, but also some lesser-known spots. We invite you to discover the wonders of Corsica and recharge your batteries in the heart of nature.
The Aiguilles de Bavella
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Krisztian Juhasz
With their granite peaks rising to over 1800m, the Aiguilles de Bavella are a veritable paradise. Indeed, hikers and climbers will find here an exceptional playground for their favorite activity. The peaks are tinged with a reddish hue that contrasts superbly with the surrounding greenery. Nature here is unspoilt and untouched, with a forest where you can hear a multitude of birdsong and smell the scent of pinewood and lavender.
What’s more, from the summit you’ll discover breathtaking natural panoramas of the surrounding valleys. Up there, you’ll even come across cows! It’s an invitation to explore. Reaching the Aiguilles de Bavella is easy: just take the D268 towards Zonza, then follow the signs. This must-see site in Corsica is accessible to all, and will delight all travellers in search of unique landscapes.
The Gulf of Girolata
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Serenity-h
The Gulf of Girolata, located in the heart of Corsica‘s Scandola Nature Reserve, is a must-see destination. Accessible only by boat or on foot, this jewel of a place remains unspoilt. As a result, the flora and fauna found here are remarkable, with rare and fascinating species.
What’s more, the quiet atmosphere of the Gulf of Girolata makes it the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature. The shimmering colors and singular light that characterize this region are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, if you’re looking for a destination that combines beauty, relaxation and discovery, don’t miss the Golfe de Girolata.
The Agriates desert
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Jon Ingall
Located between Saint-Florent and Bastia, the Agriates Desert is a fabulous place. You’ll be dazzled by its desert landscapes, sandy beaches and turquoise waters. For city dwellers tired of the hustle and bustle, the Agriates Desert is an oasis of calm and tranquillity.
In this unspoilt environment, you can follow the signposted paths to the seldom-visited Saleccia beach for a moment of relaxation. It’s the perfect place to get away from it all and contemplate nature in all its splendour.
The Scandola Reserve
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Iacomino Frimages
The Scandola Reserve on Corsica’s west coast is a feast for the eyes. The landscape is made up of breathtaking cliffs, coves and underwater caves. What’s more, the entire area is protected from human activity, making it home to incredible natural life. Take a boat trip to admire the beauty of the Gulf of Girolata, as well as the aquatic species and seabirds that roam freely in the Reserve.
You’ll also appreciate the majesty of the cliffs and the variety of shapes carved into the rock. Here, nature has reclaimed its rights, or rather, it has never lost them. Embark from the ports of Calvi, Porto or Cargèse and let yourself be seduced by the beauty of the Scandola Reserve. You won’t be disappointed, and you’ll have wonderful memories of this place for a long time to come.
The calanques of Piana
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Beboy
The Calanques de Piana are a treasure trove in western Corsica. These red granite rock formations have been sculpted by erosion over time, creating a spectacular landscape that seems to plunge into the Mediterranean. The hike is ideal for exploring the surrounding area. In fact, the well-marked trails offer breathtaking views of the varied rock formations and pure, unspoilt nature of the region. Believe us, it’s a pleasure to walk in these surroundings!
You can reach the site by car or by bus from Porto.
Lake Capitello
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Jon Ingall
Lake Capitello offers one of Corsica’s most beautiful natural panoramas, right in the heart of the mountains. Here you’ll discover water of unrivalled purity in the midst of a grandiose setting. With its unspoilt environment, it’s a calm and peaceful place, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a moment of serenity.
What’s more, the surrounding nature is remarkably rich. You can observe a wide variety of animals by following a hiking trail from Corte. It may take a few hours’ walk, but it’s well worth it!
The Restonica Valley
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Jon Ingall
Would you like to get away from the city and reconnect with nature? Then the Restonica Valley, in the heart of Corsica, is the ideal destination. Discover its translucent waters, waterfalls, mountain lakes and granite rocks. The valley’s dense, wild vegetation will plunge you into a striking environment of marshy areas, meadows and pine and beech forests.
Take the opportunity to explore the various hiking trails, swim in alpine lakes, fish, mountain bike or canyoneer. Let yourself be carried away by the sound of streams and waterfalls and the scent of the plants that dot the green valley. To get there, take the D623 from Corte and follow the signs to the Restonica Valley. You won’t regret your adventure in this exceptional setting!
The Asco Gorges
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Pio3
Take the Asco hiking trail from the D47 between Ponte Leccia and Calenzana, and you’ll reach one of Corsica’s most spectacular vantage points. Contemplate the beauty of this exceptional landscape, with its deep canyon, huge granite boulders, pools and waterfalls. And all this in the heart of a rich, protected ecosystem.
Beyond these breathtaking scenery, the Asco gorges offer a myriad of activities for mountain sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a beginner hiker, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the surrounding mountains. The more adventurous can test their mettle against the rock faces, while the more adventurous can take to the surrounding trails. If you’re looking for an immersive experience in the heart of nature, the Asco gorges are just the place.
We hope this selection of Corsica’s most beautiful natural panoramas has inspired you for your next nature getaway. Share your favorites with us in the comments below! So, are you ready to set off and discover these Corsican wonders?