Distance: 206km Total Ascent: 12400m Total Descent: 12400m Time: 67 hours
Participants: Stephen Davies (Photos), Sue Davies (Report)
Chamonix was our entry point to the area and a great place to make final preparations for our planned eleven day hike around Mont Blanc. After enjoying Monday night and Tuesday morning exploring the town and admiring the surrounding mountains it was time to leave. A short local train ride had us in Les Houches. From here it was a short walk up a hill to our accomodation. Continue reading →
Distance: 176.6km Total Ascent: 9100m Total Descent: 9425m Moving Time: 48 hours
Participants: Stephen Davies (Photos), Sue Davies (Report, Photos)
“The longest-standing and easily the most wonderful long-distance route in Corsica, the Mare e Monti holds true to its name and provides a roller coaster of treats ranging from breathtaking coastline with blue sea and beaches to some awe-inspiring mountainous landscapes” Gillian Price (Walking in Corsica – Long Distance and Short Walks, Cicerone Guides, 2013)
It was an adventure even getting to the start of this walk that involved several days of travel. We flew to Ajaccio, the capital city of Corsica. The following day we caught the train to Calvi, changing at Ponte Leccia. The trip duration was nearly five hours but was very scenic, firstly through the mountainous interior and then to the picturesque coast. Calvi is a gem with it’s commanding citadel and turquoise sandy beaches.
After planning to catch the school bus to the start of the walk at Calenzana, we purchased our tickets ahead of time and waited at the bus stop. No bus. I returned to the store where we purchased the tickets and they sheepishly informed me they neglected to advise the bus company to pick us up! They refunded our money but we had missed the only bus that day and our only option was to catch a taxi (35 euros).
The taxi driver dropped us in the main square at Calenzana so we still needed to find our accommodation. We stayed at a lovely bed and breakfast, A l’Ombre du Clocher. The home made jams with fresh bread for breakfast were amazing.
