On this program you will discover the amazing scenery that this Mediterranean island has to offer. Just unbelievable landscapes await you along the roads switching between coast and mountains. You will meet proud local people who will want to impress on you their passion for their home, food and traditions. The accommodation that we choose is all well located and offers the comfort you need; whether in "gîte d'étape" (dormitory version) or in hotels, guest houses and auberges (double rooms). Surely is this a trip that you won't forget!!
Day 1 From Bastia into the Balagne This first stage starts from Bastia and heads westwards up over the Col de TeghimeFrom here you have a great view over Bastia and the region to the south. The view also extends to the west and over to the magnificent bay of St-Florent. The road sweeps downhill from here, through Patrimonio, a region known for its vineyards (a quick stop to taste a few good wines is not a bad idea). You will then cross St-Florent and ride through the Corsican desert (le désert des Agriates), before reaching the small villages of the Balagne, on the northwest coast. Night stop in Calvi.
About 115km for 2000m+
Max height: 549m
Option more hard:
About 140km for 2450m+
Max height: 685m
Day 2 From the Balagne to the bay of Porto The itinerary follows the coastal road along crystal clear waters, and offers some stunning views. The major climb of the day is the Col de PalmarellaAfter the "Col de la Croix", through a few typical villages, you will reach Porto and its famous Genoese tower. If you want to, you can ride up to the "Calanques de Piana" (an extraordinary rock formation, UNESCO world heritage).
About 80km for 1300m+ (105km with "Calanques de Piana")
Max height: 408m
Option more hard (with "Calanques de Piana"):
About 170km for 3000m+
Max height: 1084m
Day 3 Through the Spelunca gorges to the heart of Corsica Leaving Porto and the coast, todays stage leads you through stunning gorges into the Aïtone-forest and up to the highest road pass of the island, the Col de VergioDon't be surprised to see some pigs, cows, goats or other wildlife on your way.
A long downhill awaits you (the twisty and narrow Scala Santa Regina is just pure pleasure!), before crossing Corte (where the island's university is located) and finally reaching the region of Venaco.
About 115km for 2980m+
Max height: 1477m
Day 4 From the centre of the island to the bay of Propriano The day starts with the Col de Vizzavonafollowed by a short fast downhill, before climbing again, up the beautiful Col de ScalellaFurther on the route undulates through some tiny villages (some of them known for their prehistorical vestiges). Todays accomodation offers you a great view over the bay of Propriano, and after a long day on your bike you can enjoy a cold drink watching the sunset!
About 110km for 2300m+
Max height: 1178m
Option more hard:
About 145km for 2500m+
Max height: 1178m
Day 5 From the Propriano bay to the Coscione plateau Today you will cross the Alta Rocca region, with its old historical villages, olive trees and mills. From the village of Zonza, the fittest will take the climb up to the famous Col de BavellaThe views over the Bavella needles are just amazing! Then it continues to undulate until the Col de la Vaccia (1195m) and a gentle descent to our overnight stop.
About 95kms for 2400m+
Max height: 1190m
Option more hard with "Aiguilles de Bavella":
About 115km for 2800m+
Max height: 1205m
Day 6 From the Coscione to the historical capital of Corsica You have a few km to warm up before attacking the 1st climb of the 3 this stage has to offer; the Col de VerdeA beautiful road through the Verde-forest followed by the next uphill section, up the superb Col de SorbaThe views are just wonderful! But keep your eyes on the road during the long and twisty descent. The next pass is a bit easier and also offers unique views over the Corsican countryside. Down again on a superb and twisty road, before rolling the last few km into Corte, historical capital of the island.
About 80kms for 1750m+
Max height: 1314m
Option more hard:
About 100km for 2250m+
Max height: 1314m
Day 7 The Castagniccia Deep through the villages of the Castagniccia, todays stage leads you into this area known for its old chapels, natural water sources and centuries old chestnut trees. That's pure nature!! Keep your eyes peeled for the "Milan Royal" (a local bird of prey) flying gracefully through the sky. Soon you will reach the east coast again, and Bastia is not much further.
Distance 105km for 2150m+ to the airport (123km to the port)
Max height: 985m.
Client Feedback
"Dear Europe-Active,
John and I arrived back home safe and sound on Sunday.
John and I enjoyed the tour immensely. Corsica is truly a great Island to ride a bike. We found the tour lived up to our expectations and more. Great roads, challenging climbs, fantastic scenery, quality food (including beers and wine) lovely people and good company.
As to our guide, Basile, he was superb, very informative, well organized, anticipated and appreciated all our needs (what a star).
Thank you all at Europe Active for all your efforts that made the trip life time memory for me. I also would like to make a mention of the arrangements made on our last night at the airport, which were truly appreciated by us both. Thank you once again. Regards PW, UK"
Fact sheet
Details
Starting point In Bastia, at the port at 9:00 am (a pick-up at the airport is possible). From 2012, the meeting will be at 11:00 am.
End In Bastia, at the port (or airport) on day 7.
Accommodation Nights in double rooms in hotels, guest house and auberge.
Number of people From 7 participants (starts with 5 or 6 people are possible, contact us)
Level of difficulty For regular cyclists. Daily stages from around 90km to 120km, with some steep climbs.
Carrying Your luggage gets carried on all the stages by the assistance van.
Options - Road bike rental : 150€
- Single room : 120€
Included Breakfast from day 2 to day 7. Dinner from day 1 to day 6, lunches from day 1 to day 7. Van assistance and luggage transfer on the stages. 6 nights in double rooms.
Not included The transfer to the starting point of the tour, and the transfer after the tour. The drinks. Unplanned transfers. Optional activities to the programme. Bike rental. Eventual repair costs. Personal spending.
