Visit the Gulf of Girolata

Do you dream of discovering the unusual landscapes of the Gulf of Girolata on the west coast of Corsica? In this article, you will find all the information you need to know so you don't miss anything during your stay!

Visit the west coast of Corsica to discover one of the most unusual destinations in the Island of Beauty... The Gulf of Girolata and its eponymous village have the peculiarity of being inaccessible by the road!

To get there, you'll either have to go on a hike or go by the sea. On the programme, splendid landscapes: turquoise water, golden cribs and secular walls. Here’s everything you need to know to organize your stay!

The Gulf of Girolata and its hidden village

The village of Girolata is the only Corsican village to be inaccessible by the road. Only the most adventurous travellers can discover it! Choose: the emblematic hike of the factor or mini cruise by boat , generally since Porto or Calvi .

If this particular situation does not prevent Girolata from welcoming many visitors every year, the place has retained an authentic charm. In addition to its beautiful stone alleys, which blend so well into the landscape, the village is dominated by a genoese tower of the sixteenth century.

The lower is the port that grabs attention. Its pretty beach and the charming restaurants around it make it a great stop for travelers.

In the heart of the Corsican soul

Visiting the Gulf of Girolata is also plunging into the heart of the Corsican soul. There are landscapes among the most beautiful of the island. Several treks and hikes allow you to explore them, but be warned: they are reserved for the most sporting of you!

Here the erosion carved the cliffs. Redish magmatic rocks are pierced by tunnels and coves. The contrast with the blue of the Mediterranean Sea is amazing !

All around the village, the maquis is preserved and wild . You are in the heart of a natural park, surrounded by other natural parks, in short: it is a dream destination for nature lovers!

What to see and what to do at the Gulf of Girolata?

In a trip it is not the destination that counts but always the path travelled... This famous adage is particularly relevant here in Girolata. Whether you have chosen to go there by the sea or by the land, the journey will remain engraved in your memory .

But once on site, what are the activities not to be missed to maximize the beauty of the place?

The village

The village of Girolata really deserves the detour! In order to preserve its state of conservation, specific to its exceptional situation, new constructions are prohibited. The yellow stone houses melt in the landscape, forming alleys and charming squares .

Travellers can stop in the shops and small restaurants. In view of the beauty of the place, prices are more than reasonable. By climbing the main street, you reach a stone promontory. Don’t miss a tour: it allows you to enjoy a stunning views of the Gulf .

Finally, go to the port of Girolata to stroll. Pleasant boats that moose off, beach and small establishments create a soft and peaceful atmosphere.

The beaches

Visiting the Gulf of Girolata is an opportunity to enjoy beautiful wild beaches . First of all, we think about the beach in the centre, which allows you to enjoy the atmosphere of the village and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

But the most beautiful beach in the area is certainly the beach of Tuara , long and wild. Unusually, cows often come around. A true wonder of nature!

Smaller and isolated, the beach of Cavone is only 200 metres from Girolata. It takes the form of a pebble creek, surrounded by beautiful rock formations. Not far, you will also find the beach of Gradi . Surrounded by cliffs and green hills, it is ideal for relaxing.

The Fortin and his Genoese Tower

The Fortin is a forced entry when you visit the Gulf of Girolata. It is one of the hundreds of defensive towers that were built on the Corsican coast during the Genoese era in the 16th century.

But in this strategic bay, famous for the capture of the Turkish corsary Dragut , a tower wasn't enough. It is an entire fortification that has been erected! It dominates the village, offering a spectacular view of the surroundings ... To see absolutely!

How to visit the Gulf of Girolata?

Thanks to the snorkeling

Those who want to enjoy the unspoiled nature of the site will be able to embark on a snorkeling exit thanks to this cruise... Indeed, visiting the Gulf of Girolata allows access to water rich in biodiversity .

The opportunity to meet many species: red gorgones forests, corals, nudibranches, gold-spotted doris, walls, sponges, shrimps, spirographs, merous, etc.

An exceptional exit that will delight the whole family and leave memories full of the head!

Boat trips

Several options are available to you to visit the Gulf of Girolata by boat. The first is to book a trip, often coupled to the visit of the Scandola reserve. You can leave :

• Porto: one to four departures per day;
• Galeria: at least one departure per day;
• Calvi: at least one departure per day;
• Genesis : two to three departures per day;
• the Gulf of Sagone: one to two departures per day;
• Ajaccio two to three departures a day.

Prices vary between 50 € and 100 € per person.

Other options to visit the Gulf of Girolata

Rent a boat

You also have the possibility to rent a boat to visit the Gulf of Girolata. For this, preferably leave the Gulf of Porto and pass through the Piana calanques .

Rentals can be done with or without skipper (for those who have the boat permit). You can go through an agency or rent to an individual through platforms like Samboat . Forward between 200 € and 1 000 € for the day .

The kayak

Finally, it is possible to reach Girolata by kayak. But be careful, this activity is reserved for the most sporting of you! The shortest route starts at the Gradelles beach in Osani.

Daily rental generally varies between 35 € and 50 € . Also, some travel companies organise sports excursions that take the trip in several days.

How to get to the Gulf of Girolata?

On foot

The two main hikes to visit the Gulf of Girolata depart from the pass of the Cross (Bocca Croce). It is 30 minutes from Porto, Galéria and Piana, 1 hour from Cargesis and 2 hours from Corte. From May to the end of September, a coach can reach it from Porto and Calvi.

Here are the different hikes:

• The path of the factor: To visit the Gulf of Girolata, you can follow the traces of Guy Ceccaldi and his donkey, the legendary factors of Girolata. Sinuous and rugged, this path runs along the cliffs, offering an incredible panorama on the coast. The smell and colors of the maquis are intoxicating. However, it is better to be an experienced hiker to risk it. To access this hike, go to the parking of the pass of the Cross.
• From the crest of Stillosa: This route is much less famous than the path of Guy the factor, but it also allows to reach Girolata "fastly" (between 1 h 30 and 2 h). It starts between the pass of the Cross and the pass of Palmarella, at the edge of the D81. You then follow the Mare e Monti and follow the orange marking along the ridge. To avoid hot days!
• From Lucciu's peak: This hike is much longer than previous ones: four hours to go and three hours to return. The best is to plan two days with a stop in Girolata. It starts at the start pas de Palmarella then follow the ridge of Lucciu to descend long towards Girolata. The views of the coastline are breathtaking... But they deserve it! The trail is reserved for good walkers, and does not take the days of wind or strong heat.

Are there combined visits?

Visiting the Gulf of Girolata is an opportunity to discover the other natural treasures of the region. In general, travel companies offer tours combined with the various surrounding sites.

Thus, the typical excursion or cruise will make you discover Girolata, the Piana calanques and the Scandola reserve, which is only accessible by the sea.

But it is also possible to book a full tour of the Gulf: Capo Rosso, Calanche di Piana, Porto, Senino, Girolata and finally Scandola. An ideal solution for those who don't want to take their heads during the holidays!

The right addresses

The good addresses where to stay

Few travellers stop for the night in Girolata. And for cause, the village does not shelter any hotel. If you want to sleep, you will have to choose between:

• the only historical lodging, which has only a few rooms;
• the campsite, which also offers bungalows;
• private accommodation solutions, including Airbnb.

To put all the chances on your side, book in advance. The opportunity to enjoy the much more peaceful atmosphere once the night falls and in the morning!

Restaurants

Visit the Gulf of Girolata allows you to discover good typical restaurants. Guests can enjoy fresh fish and Corsican specialities. Ideal addresses to sit on the terrace after the hike!

The most iconic restaurant is Le Bon Espoir, which offers a spectacular view of the Gulf. But besides this idyllic setting, it offers tasty and worked dishes. It's a real mess!

The spots

South of the Gulf, you will find the spectacular Piana calanques and Mont Senino . Further, the Gulf of Porto extends to the famous Capo Rosso, which houses the Turghio Tower.

In the north, it is Scandola reserve which extends. The opportunity to admire the sculptural beauty of its geological formations, accessible only by the sea.

Beyond, we find the Gulf of Galéria . You will have understood it: visiting the Gulf of Girolata is travelling in the heart of a rich and wild region!