Corsica Hiking and Kayaking

*Please note that the following information is meant to provide a general overview of your tour. The specifics of your trip will be contained in a pre-trip letter you will receive prior to your confirmed departure.

Important Trip Details: 

MEETING PLACE: Hotel Les Voyageurs or similar (Corsica)
MEETING TIME: 6pm
TRIP MILES: Varies depending on group size, weather and kayaker's abilities
RETURN TIME:  Noon
THE LAST SUPPER: Join your guide and fellow trip guests for a non-hosted farewell dinner at a favorite local restaurant. 
TRIP LENGTH: 9 days
AGE LIMIT:   Minimum age is 14
ACTIVITIES: Sea Kayaking and Mountain Hiking
NEAREST AIRPORTS: Bastia Poretta Airport 

Corsica Hiking and Kayaking Tour Itinierary

Day 1: Bastia

Fly or catch the ferry to Bastia, a charming port that’s clustered with pastel-colored houses and a designated “Town of Art & History”. Spend the afternoon wandering through its atmospheric plazas and narrow streets or feast on the catch of the day at one of the harbourfront restaurants. 

In the evening, we will congregate for an orientation meeting and a welcome dinner. 

*Bastia is connected to mainland France by air and ferry, with ferries also available from Livorno near Pisa, Italy. If you are flying internationally, we recommend arriving a day early to recover from any jetlag. 

• Meals Included: Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel Les Voyageurs or similar

Day 2: Alta Rocca Mountains + Zonza 

Today begins with a drive along the east coast of Corsica before heading inland to the Alta Rocca Mountains and the scenic mountain pass of the Col de Bavella. The area is renowned for its dramatic granite spires, which seemingly pierce the sky above. 

After lunch, we’ll set out on a two-hour hike (4 miles/6.4 kms, 200 m/600 ft elevation gain) from the Col de Bavella’s “Lady of the Snow”, a statue honoring Corsica’s religious heritage. Our hike will take us through groves of pine trees and beneath magnificent rock towers that are popular with climbers. At the end of the hike, we’ll continue to the small town of Zonza where we’ll dine on locally sourced fare. 

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel du Tourisme Zonza 

Day 3: Cucuruzzu + the Plateau du Cuscionu

Begin the day in Levie, a picturesque town that’s famed for its handmade knives. Our morning walk (3 miles/4.8 kms, 59 m/193ft elevation gain) will take us through a scenic forest of oak and beech trees, en route to the ancient site of Cucuruzzu.

Discover in 1959 by Roger Grosjean, this fortified hillock is now protected within the Corsica Regional Nature Park. Learn about the significance of its rock structures that date back to the 2nd century BC and their discovery under dense vegetation. Aside from being a fascinating historical site, the natural setting is something to behold. 

During lunch, you will be treated to a range of Corsican delicacies, such as dry-cured ham, goat's cheese, fresh bread, and wine. In the afternoon, we’ll drive north to the Plateau du Cuscionu (1500 m/4700ft elevation) to explore its majestic meadows and streams where free-roaming horses come to refuel. The afternoon hike will be around two to four miles, with a modern elevation gain.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel du Tourisme Zonza 

Day 4: Filitosa + Cargese + Piana

Our first stop today is Filitosa, a megalithic site that boasts one of Europe’s most beautiful collections of prehistoric art. Take a step back in time to discover 8,000 years of human history as we explore this mysterious cultural site before we descend from the mountains to Corsica’s west coast. If time allows, we will stop for lunch in Ajaccio (the birthplace of Napoleon) and enjoy a short walking tour of the city. 

In the afternoon, we will travel north along the coastal road to Cargese, a charming village that perches on a hill overlooking the sea. Settled by Peloponnese Greeks fleeing the Ottomans, it features two beautiful churches dating from the 19th century.

After our visit, we will head to our destination for the night, the mountaintop hamlet of Piana. It lies surrounded by pink-hued porphyritic spires adjacent to the UNESCO-listed Gulf of Porto, which forms part of the Corsica Regional Nature Park.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel Capo Rosso

Day 5: Scandola Nature Reserve

After breakfast, we’ll head to a nearby beach where our sea kayaks will be waiting. Your guides will give you a short safety and paddling orientation before we take to the water (4-8 miles/2-4 hours). Spend the morning exploring the warm Mediterranean Sea before stopping for lunch on a remote beach. Paddle beneath ochre-hued cliffs as you hear stories about Corsica and what makes it so unique. 

By the mid-afternoon, we will return to shore, with time for a short walk in the Calanche de Piana. If the weather is not suitable for kayaking, we will spend the day exploring the miles of trails that surround Piana on foot. 

In the evening, we will return to the hotel for an evening of authentic French cuisine and wonderful wine. 

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel Capo Rosso

Day 6: Cappo Rosso

Today’s goal is to paddle around the Cappo Rosso, with the full trip being up to 13 miles/20 kms (roughly 5 hours). If the weather is unfavorable or the group prefers, we can opt for one of two shorter routes, both of which offer exceptional views. Along the way, we’ll stop at a blissful beach for a picnic lunch and refresh with a dip in the inviting waters of the Mediterranean. At the end of the day, we’ll return to the hotel to watch the sunset over the sea. 

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel Capo Rosso

Day 7: Niolu to Corte + Col de Vergio

This morning, we will depart Piana and make our way to the Col de Vergio, a scenic pass that’s renowned for its wildlife sightings. Our hike this morning (4.3 miles/7 kms, 200m/650ft elevation gain) will take us through the Valdunielly Biological Reserve and to the Radule Waterfalls. While the path is rocky, it is undeniably spectacular, with larch, birch, and pine trees framing the route. Once at the falls, you can refresh with a dip in the small pool at its base. 

Enjoy a traditional lunch at a shepherd’s hut before we return along the legendary GR20, which is considered one of Europe’s most challenging long-distance routes. Once back in the vehicle, we will drive through the dramatic granite gorges of the Defile de la Scala di Santa Regina, en route to Corsica’s historic capital, Corte. 

Nestled in a valley surrounded by soaring peaks, its charming stone buildings lie at the confluence of three rivers and are watched over by a 15th-century citadel. Corte was once the political, social, and cultural heart of Corsica and served as the capital under the rule of Pasquale Paoli, who led the island to independence from the Geonese in 1755. Paoli is also responsible for implementing a democratic constitution that served as a reference for the United States Constitution. Today, Corte is home to a lively university, with almost half of the town’s residents students. 

After dinner, there will be time to stroll around the town and maybe even hear some Corsican songs in one of the traditional bars. 

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel Duc de Padoue  

Day 8:Tavignano Valley + Bastia

Not far from Corte is the beautiful and scenic Tavignano valley, one of Corsica's true highlights. Departing our hotel in Corte we will make our way to the the Mare a Mare Nord trail, a favorite hike for many of Corsica's visitors.Hiking beside the stunning Tavignano River you will have the opportunity to paddle or swim in its emerald ponds. Located in the heart of the Cortenais massif the Tavignano gorges are one of the spectacular sights on the island.

After returning to Bastia for the last night of the tour, take some time to freshen up at the hotel. Then, we will stroll to our final farewell dinner. After the meal, it's time to bid farewell to your guide.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel Les Voyageurs or similar 

Day 9: Bastia

Feel free to leave Corsica at your own pace this morning. We suggest setting aside at least a few hours to explore Bastia, the birthplace of Victor Hugo and a picturesque coastal town. With its inviting sidewalk cafes, unique shops, and the meandering lanes of the historic old town, Bastia exudes a laid-back atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your journey, there are flights available to Paris and ferries heading to Italy and the south of France.

• Meals Included: Breakfast
• Accommodations: N/A

Travel to Bastia, Corsica

There are flights from France (Paris, Marseilles, Lyon, etc. ) direct Bastia. There is also ferry service from continental Europe. The shortest ferry goes from Livorno, Italy (not far from Pisa) and there is also service from Marseille and other ports in southern France. Flying is generally the quickest and most economical method of travel to Corsica.

Corsica Weather:

We highly recommend checking the weather prior to your trip for an updated forecast and current conditions. We recommend the following website.

Weather in Corsica - Weather Underground

When to go?

Corsica has a Mediterranean climate and one of the sunniest climates in France. Weather along the coast is warm from April to June, hot in July and August and then pleasantly warm again from September to late October.  The interior gets cold by December and snow falls in the higher mountains at times. Our trips are scheduled during ideal times in terms of weather and lack of other tourists.

Physical Preparedness

Whether you are an avid sea kayaker, or it is your first time, you’ll enjoy these incredible trips, and share in our passion for adventure, commitment to conserving the environment, and relishing unique experiences. For those new to the sport, kayaking is easy to learn in the sheltered waters that we visit, and we provide all of the camping gear, kayaking equipment and guidance needed. In addition, we keep our groups small to allow you to not only travel intimately among nature, but to ensure you receive the necessary attention from our guides.

Corsica Kayaking and Hiking Packing List Overview

We are excited to see you soon for your kayaking and hiking tour with ROW Adventures! The packing list outlined below is meant to serve as a guide to help you plan, prepare and outfit yourself for your upcoming travels. We have provided our best recommendations and suggestions. These suggestions are based on the outlined itinerary, the geographic region, our knowledge of Corsica, and our personal experience.  

Gear Provided by Sea Kayak Adventures:

ROW Adventures will provide all necessary paddling equipment including: personal flotation devices (PFDs), all kayaking equipment, and neoprene booties.  

Luggage Recommendations:

Our trips are best enjoyed if you travel light. We think it is wise to avoid checking any luggage under the plane. If you do check a bag, make sure that you have everything that is either essential or would be hard to replace, with you in your carry-on.

We recommend packing in one semi-soft sided, roll-on (ideally a non-hard-sided version) or duffle luggage that meets carry-on requirements. Alternatively, if you must have a checked bag; make sure your personal items are packed with your “hard to replace items.”

We also recommend bringing one small day pack. This dual-purpose pack can serve as your personal item during your flights as well as your day pack for hikes during the tour. Outside zippered pockets are nice and allow you to organize your travel gear. Carry medications, travel documents, important personal items and other essentials or “hard-to-replace” items in this on the plane with you.

Corsica Kayaking and Hiking Tour Packing List

 

Essential Items:

• Passport – be sure it is valid for at least six (6) months after the date of your arrival
• A photo of your passport on your phone. A photocopy of your passport, inside a zip lock bag and stowed elsewhere in your luggage (as an additional precautionary measure, consider leaving a photocopy with family or friends at home as well)
• Copy of your air tickets with ticket numbers, placed elsewhere in your luggage
• Cash for gratuities 
• Credit and/or Debit/ATM card that works internationally, ideally with chip technology (some banks want you to notify them of travel plans ahead of time, which often can be done online.)
• Waterproof watch or small travel clock with alarm (if you are taking a phone, this can serve as your alarm clock)
• Travel outlet adaptors compatible with outlets of your destination country or countries. 

Active Clothing

*We recommend synthetic or quick-dry materials while kayaking and hiking

• One pair long, lightweight, nylon pants with zipper pockets (zip off legs are an alternative that give give you more options) 
• One - two pair nylon shorts or capris (this can double as a swimsuit for the guys) 
• One pair synthetic or merino wool long underwear
• Swimsuit 
• Two - three t-shirts and/or short sleeve shirt(s) or tank top(s) (synthetic is best) 
• Two long sleeve shirts with sun protection
• Two - three pairs of synthetic or merino wool socks 
• One wide-brim, tie-on hat 
• One warm hat like a ski cap or beanie
• One lightweight, packable jacket and/or vest 
• One wool or synthetic sweater or jacket for warmth in the evenings and mornings 
• One waterproof jacket (lightweight raincoat)
• One pair sturdy trail shoes, or running shoes, to use for hiking
• One pair of casual shoes or sandals with ankle straps and closed toes to wear when not hiking, such as in towns, etc. 

Additional Gear and Other Essentials:

• Pair of collapsable walking poles
• One lightweight sarong (thin material that can double as a beach towel)
• Small, packable travel towel (to take on hikes for swimming, etc) like this ultralight one
• Flashlight or headlamp
• One pair of paddling gloves (optional)
• Small day pack or fanny pack for hikes 
• One wide-mouth water bottle, 1 liter or larger
• Water filtration system - Bringing this along will help reduce our use of single use plastic. Corsica has nearly perfect tap water that can be easily filtered so it wont upset your body's system. If you are concerned, bring a filter such as a LifeStraw, Grayle, or Sawyer Squeeze or a Steripen that you can swirl in your water bottle to kill both bacteria and viruses.
• One buff or bandana for sun protection and cooling off
• ​Camera (or phone with camera) and appropriate charging mechanism
• Back up battery pack for electronic devices
• Wall power adapter for European plugs
• Binoculars or monocular 
• Glasses or contacts if needed
• Polarized sunglasses
• Retaining strap for glasses and sunglasses
• Reusable dirty/clean gear bags for wet or soiled items
• ​Small ​​reusable, leak-proof bags for liquid or spillable personal items
• Books or E-reader, pen and notepad, headphones, etc
• TSA-accessible lock for luggage security when not on your person

Toiletries and First Aid

• Standard toiletry kit including general hygiene products, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. (keep liquids under 3.38 oz.(100ml) for carry-on)
• Laundry detergent sheets so you can wash clothes in the hotel room if desired
• Insect repellent 
• Biodegrable sunscreen (we highly recommend Stream2Sea as an all natural option)
• Lip balm with SPF 20-50
• Pre-moistened toilette packets or disposable shower wipes to refresh
• Prescriptions and any necessary personal medicines (please be sure to bring necessary prescriptions and any needed emergency medicine such as an EpiPen, Benadryl, etc)
• Heavy duty skin lotion for dry, sun-baked, and salted skin
• Small squeeze bottle of hand-sanitizer gel

Note on Packing Light: Packing efficiently will make loading your kayaks easy and enable you to quickly find your gear during the tour. Plan to use 1-2 kayaking outfits that you will reuse throughout the trip. You are welcome to bring extra clothing for before or after your tour.  

ROW Adventures - Corsica Recommended Reading List

Corsica: A Portrait of a Granite Island – Dorothy Carrington
A captivating exploration of Corsica’s history, culture, and people, written by a British historian who spent decades studying the island.

The Corsican Caper – Peter Mayle
A fun, fast-paced novel set in Corsica, filled with adventure, intrigue, and the charm of Mediterranean life.

Mediterranean: Treasured Recipes from a Lifetime of Travel – Claudia Roden
A beautiful cookbook celebrating the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, including Corsican flavors.

Birds of Europe – Lars Svensson
A field guide to help travelers identify and appreciate the diverse bird species found across Corsica’s mountains and coastline.

The Shepherd’s Life: Modern Dispatches from an Ancient Landscape – James Rebanks
A fascinating look at the pastoral traditions of shepherding, offering a connection to Corsica’s rich history of shepherd culture.

The Mediterranean in History – David Abulafia
A sweeping history of the Mediterranean region, providing historical context for Corsica’s role in trade, war, and culture over the centuries.

The Corsican Widow – Vanessa Couchman
A historical novel set in 18th-century Corsica, following the life of a young woman navigating the challenges of a strict island society

"The Last of Eden" Part 1 Conde Nast Traveler: March, 1991 

"The Last of Eden" Part 2 Conde Nast Traveler: March, 1991 

"A Marvel in the Med" Conde Nast Traveler: February, 2013 

Additional Corsica and Sea Kayaking Information 

Weather Report - Check the local weather before you go.

Best Flights to Corsica - Find the perfect flights that work for you.

Corsica Info and History - Learn about this unique corner of Europe.

Trip Photo Album - Browse a photo album from a recent trip.

Anatomy of a Sea Kayak - Learn about your tour vessel.

Seeing the Isle of Beauty Through Rose Colored Glasses - Learn about the wonderful wine of Corsica.

Flavors of Corsica - Learn about the unique flavors and ingredients used throughout the region.

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