26/5/2016 – 5/6/2016     Tra Mare e Monti   

                                            Calenzana – Cargese, CORSICA 

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.