Anyone who visits Corsica and loves nature cannot avoid hiking. The facets of this island are so diverse and much of it is only accessible on foot. The island is also called “The mountains in the sea”, the highest point (Monte Cinto) with 2710 m is only about 24 km away from the sea. The mountains of Corsica are as old as the Alps and are home to spectacular landscapes.

There are hiking trails of all kinds, from a relaxed walk along the coast to a high alpine mountain tour. The higher mountain tours in particular should not be underestimated and often take more time than you think when you compare it with hikes in the Alps at similar altitudes. There are always rocky sections to be overcome on Corsica, which simply take more time.

Despite the Mediterranean location, the weather conditions in the mountains offer all imaginable variations. In summer, the heat and strong sunlight should be considered and, if possible, the ascent should be planned early in the shady area. In winter, on the other hand, you have to reckon with icy winds and meter-deep snow in higher terrain. As a result, spring and fall are the best seasons for hiking. However, snow and ice leftovers from winter can remain in the high, shady terrain well into spring and you should have your junk ready to hand.

I have already done most of the tours several times in different variants. There is always something new to discover, the changing of the seasons always brings new impressions, and it certainly never gets boring.

The tours I describe here are half-day to full-day tours that do not require an overnight stay. There are no serviced huts on Corsica, some of which can be reached by cable car, as is known from the Alps. However, you will find refuges at regular intervals where you can rest and stay overnight. A climb to the hut in the evening and the sunrise in the mountains is a worthwhile alternative. Only groceries and a sleeping bag belong in the luggage.

In this way, Corsica has retained much of its originality. Thanks to the protection of the national park, which is now over 50 years old, it will hopefully stay that way for a long time to come.