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Situated on the western coast of Corsica and in the middle of Deux Sevi County, the Gulf of Porto has an exceptional nature, let’s go to discover it!
Dear Sir, dear Madam,
We are glad to invite you to discover the Gulf of Porto, its treasures, its story, its wonders, its delicious gastronomy, its multiplicity of the seaside or countryside activities and its warn welcome of the inhabitants.
The seven towns of this area will share their heritage, their story
and their original beauty. Between nature and discovery, the territory of the Gulf of Porto
is at the centre of an exceptional site which contains four sites listed as a World Heritage by the UNESCO.
Window open on the World, the Tourist Office’s web site never
stop changing to offer you the Gulf of Porto’s qualities. We invite you to visit it for more information:
www.porto-tourisme.com We hope to see you soon. The Tourist Office of Porto’s Gulf staff.
Contents
Discovery of Porto’s Gulf and its area……….………..P3 Porto’s Gulf and its main sites……………….…….….P4 Heritage……………………...………………………...P5 Tourism of nature……………………………………...P6 Seaside tourism……………………………….……….P7 Villages of Porto’s area……….…………………….....P8 Practical information…………..…………….…….…P10
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Discovery of Porto’s Gulf and its area
Wonder of nature, the Gulf of Porto is spectacular. Situated on the West Coast of Corsica, it
will invite you to discover its stunning and unforgettable heritage.
A bewitching site between land and sea...
Splendour of nature, bordered by red granite cliffs, the Gulf of Porto is a wonderful jewel of the western coast of Corsica. Its captivating colours pallet will catch your eyes: marine blue, scarlet red, cyan blue, light-green, turquoise-blue, flaming orange, dark-green... In 1983, the beauty and the extraordinary characteristics of the gulf had been rewarded by its classification on the UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Amongst the resources which is composed of: the famous Calanche de Piana, the Gulf of Girolata – authentic haven of peace – and the very protected Natural Reserve of Scandola which offers a fabulous sight you won’t forget. But the Gulf of Porto is also villages in the mountains where you’ll find warm welcome, magical forests, tasty and subtle gastronomy and places where you could buy typical Corsican products.
The Western Coast : a natural area by excellence
Ideally situated between Calvi in the north and Ajaccio in the south, the Deux Sevi County propose you to plunge in the Corsican natural world. With its protected fauna, its endemic flora and its amazing landscapes, the gulf of Porto is one of the most visited sites of Corsica. Its UNESCO classification attracts every year thousands of visitors coming from all around the world! The western coast counts more than 70 signed paths which will enjoy the hikers and the walkers. You will have the choice between seaside walks and mountain hikes, all reachable in only a few minutes.
Some information…
The western coast contains 4 touristic counties: Deux Sevi, Deux Sorru, Cinarca and Cruzzinu. The region counts :
33 villages, 19 beaches, more than 70 hikes, 6,662 inhabitants.
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Porto’s Gulf and its main sites
Magical and unforgivable destination… the Natural Reserve of Scandola
The Natural Reserve of Scandola is situated on the coastal façade of the Natural Regional Park of Corsica (PNRC). It stretches on 80 kilometres, from de Capo Rosso peninsula (Piana) to the northern limit of Galeria. Scandola is the first reserve in France of which the vocation is based on the protection of natural heritage in both sea and land sides.
Since 1982, it’s in the specially protected Mediterranean inshore and marine areas web. Its exceptional management permitted at the PNRC to be graduated in the A-category of the European Natural Reserves by the European Council in 1985, and also in 1990 and in 1995.
A stop in a Gulf at the end of the earth… Girolata Opened on a bay this is surrounded by huge coral, ruby, and garnet cliffs, this hamlet, part of Osani since 1864, was an ancient village of shepherds for transhumance period. They settled permanently in the 19th century. With an elegant Genovese fortification of the 13th century, this village lives on tourism and also on fishing activity. It promises a authentic visit in the History: the tower was the witness of Dragut’s arrest in the 17th century. Girolata is surrounded by scrubland with incandescent tonalities of green. The welcome is warm and the return to the Past unforgivable.
On the road to a third listed site: the Calanche of Piana
« E Calanche di Piana » is one of the most original curiosities of Corsica. The sight is breathtaking. As suspended on the red granite rocks, the road goes along reddening cliffs. It’s like it just has woken up from a dream! On the high ground, the rain has drawn fascinating sculptures. You could walk in or meditate on the
legends weirder the ones than the others ones. One of the legends said that the Devil fell in love with a shepherdess from Piana. As she refused him, he became furious and decided to transform all the humans come to save her in rocky sculptures. And thereby the shadowy figures were created.
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Heritage
Genovese bridges, reflexion of an Italian influence… Built in the 15th and 16th centuries, these numerous bridges are the witnesses of the economical shake-up of the island under the Genovese domination. Donkey-back, single arch and narrow pavement are the characteristics of Genovese bridges. This term includes all the implementations from the 12th century to the 18th century. At the bend in the path, their overproud donkey-back suddenly breaks through the scrubland. The bridges which stayed upright are real
masterpiece made with a great technicality and elegance, inspired by the gothic art which was still the main influence at the time of their construction. Zaglia Bridge overhanging the Spelunca Gorges was built in 1745 according to the gothic technique still used in the 15th century: stand arcs and keystones. Listed in 1989, this bridge has been restored.
Lookout towers... also called Genovese towers The Genovese towers were built in the 16th century on the request of the villagers to be protected themselves against the pirates. Since 1530, the Genoa republic had ordered the construction of 90 towers on the Corsican coast. 32 of it were built in the Cap Corse. These lookouts situated at strategic points permitted to prevent and defend from barbarian attacks and others dangers coming from the sea. The Tower of Porto is one of the most visited towers in Corsica. You could see a permanent exhibition on the coastal fortifications in Corsica and also a little museum devoted to the use of the heather. At the top of the tower, the panoramic sight on the Gulf of Porto and the marina is incredible!
Corsica and a thousand and one sheepfolds… Formerly used by the shepherds, from fall to spring, these makeshift shelters permitted to keep watch over the herd on one part, and to make the cheese (“brocciu”) on the other part. Restored, converted or deserted, these sheepfolds are part of the landscape of Porto’s Gulf and all its area. You could find it in the mountains, at a
bend of a path. Made with the gulf’s stone (red granite) and local clay tiles, these little houses will stand still upright for a while.
The Baroque churches…
The Baroque adornment is famous for its exuberance, its grace and its imaginativeness. It uses the brilliance of the polychromic marbles, the gilts, the stuccos and the trompe-l’oeil paintings. Under the influence of Genoa, this art had been obvious to the entire religious architecture in Corsica from the 16th to the 19th century. In the Gulf of Porto, some churches are opened for the visits. These churches are decorated with beautiful paintings and religious furniture with exaggerated forms and trompe-l’oeil effects
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Tourism of nature
An endemic flora…
The myrte (myrtle), is used nowadays for the home-made alcohols: myrte liquor, myrte syrup, myrte wine... It was also the peace symbol for the Jewish and the accomplished love for the British. Its flowers have an soft and strong scent at the same time. You could see it flowering from May to June in the coastal scrubland.
The Laricio pine or « Làriciu » (Corsican pine) grows on the sunny mountain grounds. It’s an endemic specie of Mediterranean which could live 1000 years and reach 50 meters height. Its trunk very straight was looked for making the masts of the sailing boats. Its aromatic resin was used as a treatment.
L’hellébore corse or « A Nocca » (Corsican hellebore) It grows in the mountain areas because of their coldness. Poisonous and toxic plant, it was used in veterinary medicine as a insecticide and for teeth aches.
The asphodèle or « U Taravellu » (daffodil) Situated all along the roads and paths, this is a mythical and medicinal plant for centuries. The tubers were used in many concoctions. Its stem was used as a torch and its leafs for the children mattress making.
The Saint Pancrace lily
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Seaside tourism
The scuba-diving…
Porto is one of the three diving spots in Corsica. There is an exceptional underwater potential: nearness of the sites, various levels, beautiful depths, fauna and flora diversity... all these things make the reputation of the Gulf of Porto. Most famous sites: Capo Rosso, Vardiola, Ficajola, Monte Rosso, Cenino, Scopa, Punta Mucchilina (or Scandola Reserve border). You will see: groupers which are protected species, red coral, sea spiders, moray eels, dentis (fish), urchins, dolphins, spiny lobsters, sars (fish), great mother-of-pearl... “It’s the continuation of the red granite mountains under the sea, with falls of sea fans, canyons, coral caves, a sight as beautiful on the land than under the sea.”
Gulf of Porto sightseeing tours…
The Gulf of Porto has many magical and unexpected places, with an exceptional endemic fauna and flora. It promises an unforgivable stay in the area... Caves, natural sculptures with fascinating forms, the reddish colours of the rocks and the dark blue of the sea... There are so many reasons to escape all along the coasts or offshore.
Bewitching beaches…
Thanks to its jagged coast, the Gulf of Porto has beautiful beaches in the holes created by the rocks. With sand or pebbles, these beaches will enjoy the adults and the children. The water activities are very various: scuba-diving, baths in the rivers, boat trips, boat rentals, canoeing, or pedalo rentals. Don’t forget the worldwide famous canoeing in the Dardu!
Grouper
Pic by .M. Barraque
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Villages of Porto’s area
Porto, Ota’s marina and sentinel of the gulf…
Porto and its gulf, a UNESCO world heritage site, is a seaside resort famous for incredible sunsets, and listed Station Grand Site since 1995. Worrying about its wonderful natural heritage, the goal of this seaside resort is to develop and promote the natural places but at the same time keeping safe their natural balance. Surrounded by high red cliffs and overlooked by its famous square Genoa tower, Porto is a must-see site which was a fishermen village in the past. To visit: the Genovese Tower with its permanent exhibition on the coastal fortifications in Corsica, its little museum devoted to the use of the heather and its aquarium filled with fauna and flora of the gulf.
Ota, countryside village under the Capu d’Ota…
5 km from Porto, this picturesque village built on the slopes of the Capu d’Ota, is a charming place to relax and admire the inspiring panoramic views of the rugged hills. Formerly, the stonework houses were built like an amphitheatre in the place of a medieval villa since 1516. You will discover the splendours of back streets and an atypical architecture. This is the starting point for the hike in the Spelunca gorges (and Lonca gorges too) where you will see Genovese bridges, steep-side valley, torrents
and rocky peaks. To visit: the Baroque church of the 18th century, Zaglia Bridge, De Pianella Bridge (also called Ponte Vecchio), the Spelunca and Lonca Gorges.
Serriera, at the entrance of the Lonca Valley…
Lovely small village built with red granite rocks at the entrance of the Lonca Valley, Serriera captivates you with its calmness and its peace. Situated on the Mare e Monti hike (famous path made by the Natural Regional Park of Corsica) you will be able to reach Ota by the Lonca Gorges. Its Bussaglia beach, listed site, offers an exceptional view on the south part of the gulf and onto the Capo Rosso. To visit: Lonca, Bussaglia Beach, the Baroque-style church and the deserted village of Pinito.
Partinello, village looking at the Gulf of Porto…
Picturesque and peaceful village of the western coast of Corsica, Partinello is an enchanting place overlooking the Porto Gulf. Its little pebble beach Caspiu is really beautiful and quiet, even in the high season. From there and direction Bussaglia, you can discover by sea the Arch, famous flaming red rocky arch.
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Marignana and its deserted village of Tassu…
15 km from Porto and 17 km from the Col de Vergio, this typical village, at 750 m altitude is a recommended stopover for hikers. On the famous path of Tra Mare e Monti or Mare a Mare you can reach Nino Lake as shepherds from Niolu did at the time of seasonal migration of livestock to summer pastures (transhumance). To visit: the little hamlet of Chidazzu which keeps a certain charm thanks to its St. François-Xavier chapel (17th century), the deserted village of Tassu.
Osani and its jewel called Girolata…
This beautiful red granite village, around 30 minutes to the north of Porto, stands above a narrow road leading to Gradelle beach and is at the foot of the Cap Senino, close to the Col de la Croix. Two hamlets are under its property: Curzu and Girolata, which are famous stages of Tra Mare e Monti. Wild hamlet preserved from the human life pollutions, Girolata is an authentic fishermen village. Accessible only on foot or by sea, discover its small fort and live (as if you were there) the arrest by the Genovese of the Turkish admiral Dragut, who was the allied of the French. You can also discover the little harbour very appreciated by the sailors, Tuara beach on the path to reach the Col de la Croix and savour these delicious products coming from the local fishing. To visit: Girolata, the fortification in Girolata (16th century), Gradelle beach (like a cove)
Evisa, chestnut original land…
Situated above the old Pievan church of St. Cyprien which has recently been rebuilt and a castle (or castellu), at 850 m altitude, Evisa stands at the entrance to the Spelunca gorges on the edge of the Aïtone forest. Surrounded by chestnut groves, Evisa is a burg with high built stonework houses, halfway through sea and mountain. You could admire beautiful orange sunsets from the village which
dominates Spelunca gorges, offering spectacular views on Capo d’Orto and Capo d’Ota. Famous for its A.O.C chestnut Marron d’Evisa which has a fin and delicate taste, the village celebrates it every year in November during the Foire du Marron where you can buy products made with chestnuts: flavours, jams or also marrons glacés (chestnut sweets). To visit: the chestnut path, the Aïtone forest, the natural pools and waterfalls, the Baroque church (16th century).
Cristinacce, piedmont plain of the Col de Sevi… From this little village built on terraced land in a chestnut grove above the Valley of Porto River, you could drink at one of the springs of the village. The pure water which feeds the public fountain is famous to have the same properties than the Volvic mineral water. The village is also known for its cured meats.
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Practical information
The Gulf of Porto location...
Bastia Calvi Porto Corte Ajaccio
How to get to Porto and its area ?
Flying: The nearest airports are Ajaccio and Calvi, both at even distance from Porto. Sailing: The nearest harbours are Calvi and Ajaccio.
Your itinerary...
From Ajaccio : Follow direction Mezzavia, then follow the road N194 direction « Calvi par la Côte », after going under the arch in Mezzavia follow the road D81 until Porto. From Calvi : Get out of Calvi by the road N197 and take the road D81 until Porto. To reach the surroundings villages: follow the D84 direction Corte or the D81 direction Calvi.
The Tourist Offices in the western coast of Corsica
Office du Tourisme du Golfe de Porto et sa région*** Quartier « la marine » 20 150 Porto – Ota Tel : 04 95 26 10 55 / fax : 04 95 26 14 25
www.porto-tourisme.com /[email protected] Office de Pôle Destination Ouest Corse BP 05-20118 Sagone Tel/ Fax 04 95 24 55 62 www.destination-ouest-corse.net Office du Tourisme du Golfe de Sagone - Canton des Deux Sorru* BP 05 -20118 Sagone Tel/Fax 04 95 28 05 36 www.golfedesagone.net
Office du Tourisme de Cargèse** Rue du Docteur Dragacci 20 130 Cargèse Tel: 04 95 26 41 31/ fax : 04 95 26 48 80 www.cargese.net /[email protected] Office du Tourisme de Piana** 20 115 Piana Tel: 04 95 27 84 72 / fax : 04 95 27 82 72 www.sipiana.com / [email protected]
Pictures credits : Mr Nicolas BARRAQUE, Mme Sylvie LANNOY, Melle Emilie DELBARRE , Mr Alain BOUVET (Maison de l’image), Mr Fernando FERREIRA, Office de tourisme du Golfe de Porto et sa région
