This excellent walking week shows off the great variety of hiking in Corsica, from the mountainous terrain beneath the peak of Paglia Orba (2525m), down to the stunning Gulf of Porto. Our first 2 nights accommodation are at the ski station of Castel di Vergio and from here we walk in the rugged Golo Valley with the opportunity to swim in welcoming river pools. Heading west, we then hike across the Col de Vergio to the famously pretty village of Evisa and spend 2 nights there, with a day-hike through the maquis to the abandoned hamlet of Tassu. We continue this walking holiday, hiking an age-old path which takes us down to the vibrant marina at Porto, with its rocky beach and pink granite coastal outcrops. Swimming in the sea and exploring the coastal paths and herb-scented trails around the traditional village of Piana provide a contrasting way to end this delightful Corsican walking holiday.

Day 1
Rendezvous at Ajaccio Airport. KE Land Only package services begin with a group transfer to the group hotel in Castel di Vergio (2 hours). After check in we can relax on the terrace, stroll in the woods or walk up the road to Col de Vergio, a high mountain pass that offers a great view of the west coastline. Ovenight in Castel di Vergio.

Day 2
As a warm up for the Monti a Mare, we have a walk along a section of the famous GR20 into the heart of the volcanic massif of the Paglia Orba, following the Golu River upstream to some excellent swimming holes. We return to overnight at Castel di Vergio.

Day 3
Today's walk takes us up and over the mountain pass Col de Verghu, as we cross to the western side of the island. Descending at first through pine forest, we soon reach chestnut woodland and the pretty village of Evisa, where we check in at our comfortable accommodation.

Day 4
Today we can do a circular walk through the maquis to Tassu, an abandoned hamlet. As an alternative, you might simply choose to relax by the pool, go on a bike ride, or explore the village and taste a few of its chestnut specialities. We spend a second night in Evisa.

Day 5
An age old stone path descends through the Spelunca Gorge to the neighbouring village of Ota. The mountain vegetation gives way to a profusion of hazy fragrant Mediterranean flowers and herbs. We continue to Porto a vibrant marina where the beach is made up of large pebbles, bordered by eucalyptus trees and rose hued sea cliffs. Overnight in a hotel in Porto.

Day 6
In the morning we can enjoy the beach, have a swim or go snorkelling. In the afternoon we head off to the mountain village of Piana. Starting with a section of coast path we take a trail ascending the massif of Capu d'Orto to reach Piana at 300 metres. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 7
A long descent with stunning coastal views, takes us to the beautiful cove of Ficajola. Alternatively, anyone looking for a more challenging hike will have the option of making an ascent of Capu d Ortu (1294m.). We spend a second night in Piana.

Day 8
After breakfast we have a group transfer (2 hours) to the airport at Ajaccio where KE Land Only package service end.

Start
At the Ajaccio airport
End
At the Ajaccio airport
How to get there
Fly to Ajaccio
Accommodation
7 nights hotels and lodges
All meals except lunches and 1 dinner (day 6) included
Number of people
of 6 to 15
Level of difficulty
More relaxing than our GR20 Corican walking holiday, this trip includes walks of only moderate length and difficulty. Some of the walks are optional and throughout the holiday we stay in comfortable hotels and guest houses.
Guide
An experienced professional leader
Carrying
You need to carry a small day sack only with a water bottle, camera, picnic and windproof jacket. The main luggage will be transported by vehicle between the different accommodations.
Price includes
An experienced professional leader
Single timed group transfers from and to Ajaccio Airport
All road transfers detailed in the itinerary
All hotel and guest house accommodation
All meals except lunches and 1 dinner
Vehicle support and baggage transfer
Price does not include
Travel insurance
Airport transfers (other than group transfers)
All lunches and 1 dinner
Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc.