The coastal path of Cap Corse is a magnificent hike through impenetrable maquis shrubland and spectacular, completely secluded beaches. The route connects two villages on the Cap, Macinaggio and the port of Centuri, passing through a very wild protected natural area. The biotopes and landscapes encountered are very diverse: maquis, dunes, river mouths, Genoese towers, beaches, cliffs…
The hike isn't particularly difficult, but it is long, 24km. Furthermore, the end point is on the opposite side of the Cap Corse peninsula from the starting point. I recommend starting in Macinaggio and finishing at the port of Centuri. One option for this route is to have two cars, one at each end. Another is to spend the night in the port of Centuri and then hike back. The third option is simply to do only half the route as an out-and-back (Macinaggio <-> Barcaggio). This is also the most beautiful part of the hike in my opinion, so you won't miss anything.
On this page, you'll find a complete description of the route as I hiked it, along with the GPX track. Please note that the GPX track was created after the fact (not recorded on the ground), so it may be slightly inaccurate. As always, bring plenty of water and good hiking boots. I recommend spring or autumn for this trail, as summer is far too hot for this path with no shade. Happy hiking in Cap Corse!
The Cap Corse customs trail, part 1: from Macinaggio to Barcaggio
Leave the village of Macinaggio and walk along the main beach on the coast. In spring, the beaches are covered in dried seagrass. It forms layers that can reach several meters thick. It's very beautiful, but it makes swimming difficult!
The path then winds through the Corsican maquis, between rockroses and lavender. It's very beautiful, and there are often magnificent views of the deep blue sea. Afterward, you arrive at the 4th-century chapel of Santa Maria. It's one of the oldest chapels in Corsica, and it stands all alone in the middle of the maquis—quite surprising!
Near the chapel stands the Santa Maria tower, one of the highlights of this route. It was built on dry land but now stands with its feet in the water: the sea level has risen!
The path continues past several beaches before finally climbing along imposing cliffs. The landscape becomes much rockier. We pass the Agnello headland, where another Genoese tower awaits. To the north, we can see the island of Giraglia.
The trail then descends and runs alongside a final beach before reaching the village of Barcaggio. Depending on the rainfall, there may be a ford where you'll need to remove your shoes before reaching the village. You can enjoy a well-deserved refreshment at the bar before tackling the second part of the hike.
Part 2: from Barcaggio to Centuri port
We start with a short kilometer along the coast to reach the village of Tollare. After that, we head back into the maquis for the rest of the hike. We quickly gain altitude with some beautiful views of the village.
We arrive on a small, windswept road that passes the Cap Corse semaphore station. It's a very isolated spot where the vegetation is impenetrable. The trail then climbs 200 meters in elevation through a magnificent little valley, far from everything.
After crossing the pass, the trail continues downhill through the maquis. The view of the rocky coast is stunning. In the late afternoon, the sweet scent of rockrose fills the air. Swimming is possible in a few small coves towards the end of the path. Finally, the trail reaches the port of Centuri, marking the end of this coastal path along Cap Corse, which will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression of the pristine and wild beauty of the Cap Corse coastline.
If you liked the landscape photographs on this page, please take a look at the section Pictures. For example, you can order a poster of my photos, which is a good way to support me ;).
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