Visit the Scandola Reserve in Corsica

Are you lucky to go to Corsica, one of the most beautiful islands in Europe? Here is how to visit the Scandola Reserve, a pure natural jewel!

It is on the Island of Beauty that we find the Scandola reserve, a natural protected area known for its ecosystem with marine and terrestrial wonders. Listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, it occupies an area of over 1,650 hectares. It includes part of the maritime facade of the Regional Natural Park of Corsica (for part classified as Natura 2000) which is the manager.

The territory of the natural reserve is located in the department of Corse-du-Sud, specifically on the municipality of Osani, west of Corsica. It presents a peculiarity to know: it is only accessible by the sea, its only terrestrial part being a peninsula north of the Gulf of Porto. Particularly supervised due to the biological wealth present on the area, it is however possible to visit the Scandola reserve.

Wanderlix gives you some tips to visit the Scandola reserve in any relaxation. Let’s go!

History of the Scandola Reserve

It was in 1975 that this splendid nature reserve was created. If there were others before them, imposed by the government to respond to the massive urbanization affecting the island, Scandola was the first to cover the maritime and land domains. Inscribed to UNESCO World Heritage since 1983, it is now one of the largest French natural reserves.

Numerous researchers come to explore the seabed and the emerald coast, few areas free of human presence in the Mediterranean. They come to collect and see the perverse effects of warming and pollution on marine ecosystems. They are the only ones who can access the terrestrial part, forbidden to visitors.

However, they can visit the Scandola reserve by boat. If you want to realize the importance of saving this extraordinary natural heritage, one solution. Go and discover this privileged space!

Our tips to visit the Scandola Reserve

Best times of the year

Corsica, and especially the south of the island, enjoys a sunny Mediterranean climate. So mild winter and warm summer!

• The summer season is the one where we see the highest tourist attendance. Many people want to visit the Scandola reserve in Corsica during the summer, and we understand them. But we obviously recommend youavoid to visit this tourist territory during high season.
• To benefit from all the benefits of your stay, we recommend you to opt for a stay in April-May, or early autumn : the temperatures remain key and the number of people present on site is divided by four. In order not to spoil anything, it will save you a lot of money on the budget allocated for transport, accommodation or mouth-watering, for example. In addition, tickets for aeroplane or ferry are much less expensive!

The best way to discover the Scandola Reserve

You understood it: Scandola’s natural reserve protects itself from any harmful human activity. Son access is therefore strictly regulated .

• To make it simple, you can only visit it by taking advantage of a nice walk boat, proposed by registered companies. It is an opportunity to take a good bowl of fresh air and breathe the iodized wind. You will have the opportunity to see birds, rocks and cliffs of several million years old... and, why not, dolphins!
• That the amateurs of console yourself: you can create a nice course with a view of the reserve. Take the path of Mare e Monti, between Galeria and Girolata! For an average duration of 6 hours (just to go!), the route is reserved for experienced walkers with a good physical condition. Yeah, it's getting pretty good! You can then spend a night in Girolata or take a taxi boat to return to Galéria or Porto by taking advantage of a passage through the Scandola reserve on the sea side.

What to see and what to do at the Scandola Reserve?

Scandola is a reference in the Mediterranean because of its remarkable biodiversity at the European level. There are some of the species that have been missing for a long time, and, better, we continue to discover natural plant splendours so far unknown! Here are some activities that can be done:

• Geology: In fact, Scandola is the emerging part of a large volcanic complex measuring nearly 700 km2. The peninsula corresponds to a former volcano that collapsed in the sea. There is nothing surprising about what is found, by carefully observing it, of the geological formations typical of volcanic systems.
• Ornithology: Volatiles are not here left. In addition to balbuzard fisherman, the iconic bird of Scandola, you may be able to observe the majesty of the pilgrim falcon, the fastest animal in the world.
• Dive: unfortunately it is not possible to dive into the waters of Scandola since it is a protected natural space. That said, it is authorized to dive along its borders, without entering them under penalty of being fined salt! The surroundings of the reserve are deemed among the most beautiful diving spots of the Island of Beauty. The seabeds are spectacular and populated with merous, moored and other shrimp benches. The icing on the cake: not far, the wreck of a former bulky ship is immersed at 20 meters deep.

How much does a ticket cost to the Scandola Reserve?

The Scandola reservation does not offer an entry ticket (no opening hours), since it is forbidden to enter it. Visiting the Scandola reserve remains possible but only by boat and only in certain areas. So, to organize a boat trip, there is no problem.

• Visit the Scandola Reserve from Porto: 60€ per adult and 30€ for children under the age of fourteen. The boats used are pretty comfortable and fast! A typical cruise lasts 3 hours.
• In the summer, some operators offer the crossing in semi-rigid boats (Zodiacs), less expensive.

How do I book a ticket for the Scandola Reserve online?

Different operators take care of the crossing and carry out the same route. In summer, in particular, you will only have the embarrassment of choice. What you are advised is compare offers and to inform you with local tourist offices.

Des reductions can even be offered if you book well in advance.

Are there visits combined with other locations?

You can perfectly choose another cruise, it also from Porto, but it lasts this time Four to five. This formula allows you to admire Scandola and Girolata, but also to marvel at the famous Piana calanques .

At Wanderlix, it is clearly the solution that you are recommended if you have the time and want to take the mirettes! The Piana calanques are among the most beautiful natural landscapes to see when you go to Corsica. They also have sublime red cliffs that have nothing to envy to those of Scandola.

Most companies providing classic cruises can offer this much more complete escapade. Enjoy it!

How to access the Scandola Reserve?

Visiting the Scandola Reserve is simple! Departures are made daily from the port of Porto. This small town is located northwest of the island, between Calvi and Ajaccio .

• After boarding, you will sail gently towards Scandola. You will make a stop at the old fishing village of Girolata, ideal for eating or drinking a drink. The port of call lasts between 1 and 2 hours, which will allow you time to walk a little in the picturesque streets and enjoy the view.
• Once returned aboard the boat, 1 hour separates you from the sumptuous reserve of Scandola.

Where to stay near the Scandola Reserve?

Visiting the Scandola Reserve is a must-see for anyone walking around this area.

• To the extent that there is a high chance for you to go to contemplate the reserve by landing to PortoWhy don't you stay right there? So it will be possible for you to make the exit in the afternoon and to sleep in Porto at night, or otherwise! Porto is a charming small port with neat and authentic hotels, as well as restaurants offering sumptuous dishes.
• If you plan to spend several days on site, you can also rent one Airbnb directly around Girolata or Orsani. Ideal for feeling at home, but at home!