Rock Climbing in Corsica
Corsica's landscape is very much determined by its mountains. The Monte Cinto massif, in the center of the island, rises to a height of more than 2700 meters and is therefor of alpine character. For mountain climbers there are numerous rewarding destinations.
At this point we would like to explore the possibilities for rock climbers which Corsica has to offer. The special attraction of the different climbing gardens lies not so much in their size, number or particular difficulty but more in the scenic beauty of the surroundings. The following climbing gardens can be especially highlighted:
Bavella valley / Col de Bavella: The climbing area is situated 10 minutes walking distance away from the car park at the pass, towards the Bavella towers. Very large climbing garden with many routes of all difficulty levels. The climbing routes are well signposted and have good stands. Suitable for children.
Porto: Small cliff at the end of the beach, next to the sea. Very suitable for children. The rock itself is less spectacular but the evening mood is lovely.
Bussaglia: About 15 minutes by car from Porto towards Calvi. From the restaurant approx 400m south along the gravel beach. Very nice climbing rock directly by the sea. Very suitable for children. Best in the morning, because the rock and the pebbles on the beach are getting extremely hot in the afternoon. Only limited swimming possible, as there often is a very high swell.
Monte Santu: Go from Solenzara (east coast) to the small village of Penna-Belvedere. From there about 45 minutes on a partially overgrown walking track through Macchia up to the Monte Santu (601m). At the top is a very nice picnic spot with beautiful views to the sea and the Bavella mountains.
Foret de Bonifatu: Near Calvi. From the forester's house about 20 min in the direction of the Carozzu hut. In the middle of the river bed you find an enormous rock with climbing routes in all difficulty levels.
Rocher des Gozzi: North of Ajaccio. Unfortunately we don't know it yet.
Restonica: Near Corte. This one we don't know either.
Climbers usually have their own equipment, so we won't go into that here. But we would like to point out, that the best season for climbing in Corsica is spring. In the summer months it is simply too hot.