The Agriate Desert
A wild and magnificent region of long rocky ridges and maquis-covered valleys, the Agriate is also home to white sandy beaches with translucent waters. Once dubbed "the granary" by the inhabitants of Cap-Corse, these lands have been farmed since Neolithic times, and were also the scene of the micro-region's annual transhumance. Today, since 1979, this 15,000-hectare protected natural area has enjoyed international renown, making it one of Corsica's flagship sites.
The Conservatoire du Littoral, owner of 5,500 ha, has supported the development of tourism by scrupulously preserving this natural environment. In keeping with local architectural traditions, ancient paillers (traditional shepherd's huts) have been restored and converted into overnight accommodation at Ghignu. On foot, on horseback or by boat, you'll be amazed by the richness of its panoramas: wild nature, white sand and turquoise waters. There's no doubt that its sumptuous beaches will leave you with unforgettable memories. The crystal-clear coastline stretches for miles, offering breathtaking scenery and a unique paradise-like character. The region's stunningly beautiful shores invite you to explore and enjoy the wonders of unspoilt nature.
Flora
Over 130 endemic species!
Corsica's flora comprises 2172 spontaneous species. Because of its isolation, the island has more than 130 endemic species. Its richness is due to the fact that Corsica has a wide variety of climates. The height of the maquis can vary from 50cm to 6m, depending on soil, exposure, altitude and the frequency of fires.a macchja" maquis is emblematic of this region and is an essential component of Corsican hikes.
Corsica's unique Mediterranean climate, characterized by long, hot, dry summers, mild winters and rainy shoulder seasons, has favored the emergence of typical vegetation of great diversity. Plant growth is strongest in spring.
From olive to immortelle, arbutus to cistus and myrtle, you'll be struck by the beauty and variety of the species. Immortelle is the dominant fragrance of the Corsican maquis. Shepherds used it daily to ward off cheese flies and to heal broken bones. Gathered on St. John's Day, they would weave a bow under which the cattle would pass to protect them from disease, as it is a plant with purifying properties. During the Spanish flu epidemic, bunches of immortelle were burned in every house to purify the air. Its properties for treating colds are also widely recognized.
Mortella
A tower with a rich past
Begun in 1563 and completed a year later by Genoese Admiral Andrea Doria, this construction was an integral part of the defense system for the Gulf of Saint-Florent. For two and a half centuries, it played a crucial role in surveillance and protection during a particularly turbulent period in Corsican history.
By 1715, seven people were living there: a "Capo" (chief), a bombardier and five soldiers. In 1794, the English Admiral Nelson, impressed by the building's solidity, had several identical towers built on the English and Irish coasts, which can still be seen today, under the name of Mortello Towers. Only one facade has been saved and restored, and you'll be delighted to discover it, along with this enchanting site.
There are two ways to get there: by sea or on foot along the coastal path, just under a three-hour walk from Saint-Florent.
The Douaniers trail
Touring the Agriate
From the Roya beach in Saint-Florent to the Ostriconi beach, this trail takes you through the famous "Agriate Desert". Commonly referred to as such, this wild and superb region of long rocky ridges and maquis-covered valleys also offers exceptional beaches with crystal-clear waters. Along the way, you can alternate between swimming in the turquoise waters, hiking and discovering the region's rich agro-pastoral past. You can also choose to follow a smaller part of the trail, but you'll have to retrace your steps (no loop possible).
Distance: 35 km
Duration: 14h45 one way
Start: Plage de la Roya
Finish: Plage de l'Ostriconi
Practical recommendations
For the best possible experience, we recommend that visitors bring plenty of water, good walking shoes, headgear and light clothing during the summer months. In spring and autumn, the weather can change rapidly, so bring plenty of equipment to adapt to sudden changes in the weather.
The route presents no particular difficulties and is passable all year round. However, beware of flash floods when crossing river mouths after a storm. Take care in strong winds.
Although open to the public, this protected site is worth preserving! To do so, you must respect the regulations: camping, bivouacs, fires, garbage dumps and motorized vehicle traffic are forbidden outside the designated trails. The trail starts at the Roya beach in Saint-Florent and ends at the Ostriconi beach in the Balagne micro-region (approx. 2pm). You can park your vehicle either at Plage de la Roya, or 2km further along the trail on a passable track.
If you choose to hike from one end to the other, you'll need to plan for at least one overnight stop.
Please note that you can only refuel with drinking water in Saleccia (at the campsite or at the straw hut under the pines)!
Here are the longest distances: around 14h in all.
- Saint-Florent to Lotu beach: 4h45
- From Lotu beach to Saleccia beach: 1h
- From Saleccia beach to Ghignu refuges and Malfalcu beach: 2h45
- From Ghignu to Ostriconi beach: 6h30
Departures
From Saint-Florent, follow the track from the Roya beach to "l'anse de Fornali", then follow the coastal path.
Follow the Ostriconi along the beach to the north, take the track to Vana cove and then the path.
Two trails are also open to motorized traffic (4X4 and trials vehicles only): Saleccia from Casta and Ghignu (refuges) and Malfalcu from the Vezzu pass.
Stopover accommodation
- The Ghignu straw huts
-The huts are old straw huts restored and fitted out to sleep 4 to 6 people. Mattresses are not provided, and pagliaghji are not equipped with cooking facilities or water. Sanitary facilities are shared and water is not drinkable.
- Contact: ghignu@haute-corse.fr or 04 95 59 17 35. - Le camping de Saleccia
- Before June 1, 2024 and after September 30, 2024, it is not necessary to reserve pitches.
- No payment by credit card during this period.
- Contact emplacement@camping-uparadisu.com. For accommodation : hebergement@camping-uparadisu.com or 04 95 37 82 51.