Our inspirations in Ghisonaccia & surroundings

Discover Ghisonaccia: a Corsican jewel

Ghisonaccia, the "capital" of the eastern plain, is a Corsican destination not to be missed. Nestled between Porto Vecchio and Bastia, this ancient Genoese citadel offers a plunge into authentic island culture. The adventurer in you will be delighted to discover the varied landscapes and local traditions that make this region so rich.

Discover Domaine Mavela, a distillery specializing in eaux de vie and liqueurs, and more recently whisky.

Take advantage of the many outdoor activities on offer in the region, from hiking in the Pinia forest to cycling and water sports on the Costa Serena.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the superb Arinella beach, an ideal place for families to relax without being on top of each other.

Finally, the town of Ghisonaccia is also known for its Bird Tree, voted Tree of the Year 2018, which is well worth a visit.

The history of Ghisonaccia: from transhumance village to town

The history of Ghisonaccia is marked by its evolution since its creation in 1845. Initially a place of transhumance for shepherds, the commune grew out of the dismemberment of Lugo-di-Nazza. Shepherds from the Pieve du Castellu brought their flocks here for the winter.

Over time, Ghisonaccia evolved from a place of passage to a town in its own right. Agriculture was the driving force behind this transformation. In the 1960s, the agricultural boom enabled the commune to develop into a prosperous little town.

The town also took advantage of its position on the Costa Serena, attracting many visitors and developing local tourism.

Ghisonaccia's unspoilt coastline

Pinia beach: a natural paradise

Stretching along the Pinia forest, the largest maritime pine forest in Corsica, Pinia beach is a true haven of peace. Its untamed nature offers an idyllic setting for lovers of tranquillity and authenticity. Its fine white sand and clear but not turquoise water make it an ideal place to relax and swim.

Pinia beach can be reached via the sea road, turning left just before the Ghisonaccia beach parking lot. The further north you go, the wilder the beach becomes. Despite its beauty, Pinia beach is not very busy, offering a quiet, private swimming area. It's also a perfect spot for picnics in the shade of the pine forest.

There are no commercial facilities on the beach, preserving its natural character. So you won't find any straw huts or rentals on site.

Etang d'Urbino: rich biodiversity

Etang d'Urbino, Corsica's second largest lake, is a veritable sanctuary for nature. It is so rich in biodiversity that it has been classified as a Ramsar and Natura 2000 site.

It is home to a multitude of bird species, including breeding birds. These include grey herons, kingfishers and egrets, which find refuge in this lagoon ecosystem.

The site is also an important habitat for many fish and amphibians.
Its flora is just as diverse, with species of shrubs and aquatic plants specific to this type of environment. The observation of this exceptional flora and fauna is made possible by the preservation of this ecosystem, the fruit of concerted management between the Conservatoire du Littoral, owner of the site, and the Collectivité de Corse.

This biodiversity-rich pond is a must for nature and wildlife lovers.

The Costa Serena: beauty and tranquillity

The Costa Serena is a region of eastern Corsica, known for its long strip of unspoilt beaches. Bordering the Mediterranean Sea, it stretches from Ghisonaccia to Solenzara. Its vast stretches of fine sand, crystal-clear waters and unspoilt nature make it a popular place for relaxation and recreation. For fishing enthusiasts, the mountain streams of the Costa Serena are a veritable paradise. The rivers that meander through the region also offer exceptional sites for wilderness bathing.

The Costa Serena's hinterland is equally impressive, with its pine forests and maquis. Hikers will discover isolated villages that bear witness to an authentic, unspoilt Corsica. These walks are an opportunity to discover the local flora and fauna, and admire breathtaking landscapes.

Last but not least, the Costa Serena is also a privileged holiday destination with a wide variety of accommodation options. Whether you opt for a waterfront campsite or a residence in the heart of a wooded garden, you'll find the ideal place to make the most of your stay in Corsica.

Corsican tradition in Ghisonaccia

Tradition is at the heart of Corsican identity, and Ghisonaccia is no exception. Local crafts are a living reflection of these ancestral customs. Lovers of traditional skills can visit pottery workshops or discover cutlery, an ancestral Corsican art.

The town is also marked by local festivities throughout the year. Among these, the Midsummer bonfire is a major event that brings the whole community together. This ceremony, visible from afar, embodies the festive spirit of Corsican culture.

Corsican gastronomy is also an integral part of the Ghisonaccia tradition. Local produce, the result of respectful agriculture, is showcased on the plates of local restaurants. The region's cheeses and charcuterie, renowned for their unique flavours, are a must.

Last but not least, Ghisonaccia is renowned for its respect for environmental traditions. The sustainable management of its natural areas, such as the Etang d'Urbino, reflects this commitment.

Ghisonaccia offers an authentic glimpse of Corsican tradition, with its crafts, festivities, gastronomy and respect for nature.

From the sea to the mountains: Ghisonaccia's unique panoramas

The surrounding mountains: an exploration not to be missed

The mountains surrounding Ghisonaccia offer breathtaking panoramas and a multitude of opportunities for hiking enthusiasts. Prunelli-di-Fiumorbo is one of the starting points for several routes, including a challenging 71.65 km loop that takes in the small mountain villages of eastern Corsica.

For a more leisurely experience, you can head for the Défilé de Strette. Ideal for road cycling, it offers breathtaking views of Ghisonaccia and the surrounding area.

If you're a cycling fanatic, the Ghisonaccia - Isolaccio - Cascade de Buja itinerary is not to be missed. This 50.9 km loop is considered difficult, but the views are well worth the effort.

For those who prefer walking, there are also several options. For example, the Pinia forest offers a 9.7 km circuit of medium difficulty. During the hike, you'll discover a diverse landscape ranging from ponds to the sea.

Whether you're an experienced hiker or just a nature lover, exploring Ghisonaccia's surrounding mountains is an experience not to be missed during your visit.

Breathtaking views from the heights

To see Ghisonaccia from a new angle, there's nothing like a climb to its heights. You'll be rewarded with panoramic views that blend sea and mountains, a Corsican speciality.

The nearby Ghisoni belvedere offers a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. From here, you can admire the peaks of Christe-Eleison and Kyrie-Eleison to the southeast.

The Genoese tower of Pinia is another interesting viewpoint. Dominating Pinia beach, this historic vestige offers a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Don't forget to take advantage of the many hiking trails that offer unparalleled views. Among them, the hike to Lake Melo, although located in Corte, a 45-minute drive from the town, offers panoramic views that are well worth the detour.

The sea-mountain contrast: a distinctive Corsican feature

The contrast between sea and mountains, so characteristic of Corsica, is particularly palpable in Ghisonaccia. This unique geographical position offers a variety of landscapes and a multitude of activities. On one side, the Mediterranean Sea, with its long sandy beaches, perfect for relaxation and water sports. The beaches of Costa Serena and Pinia are real natural gems to discover.

On the other side, the mountains offer unforgettable hikingopportunities. From the Prunelli-di-Fiumorbo loop to the challenging Ghisonaccia-Isolaccio-Cascadede Buja route, each hike offers breathtaking views of Corsican scrub and the sea.

This contrast is also reflected in a distinctive climate, with hot summers softened by sea breezes, and mild winters on the plains but harsher in the mountains. This undeniably contributes to the richness of Ghisonaccia's tourist offering, which appeals to both idlers and adventure-seekers.

Share authentic experiences in Ghisonaccia

Sharing authentic experiences in Ghisonaccia means, above all, experiencing Corsica as it is: rich in emotions and discoveries. You can learn about the local cuisine by taking part in a culinary workshop, or discover the natural heritage by exploring the Pinia forest on an electric bike. Hiking enthusiasts can indulge their passion on the region's many trails, such as the Mare a Mare Centre.

Local encounters : Visit the Ottavi Cheese Factory for a tasting of traditional Corsican cheeses and an authentic encounter with local producers.
Natural adventures: Take part in the Concours de l'arbre for an experience in the heart of nature, and discover Corsica's respect for the environment.
Culinary discoveries : Don't miss breakfast at Ferme Mille Fiori, where you can sample organic and local produce.

Living Ghisonaccia authentically means opening yourself up to unique human, natural and cultural experiences. Make the most of every moment to create unforgettable memories and share your love for this island of beauty.

Ghisonaccia: the right choice for your Corsican vacation

Situated between the sea and the mountains, Ghisonaccia is an ideal choice for your vacation in Corsica. This town offers an idyllic setting for enjoying nature and outdoor activities. You can recharge your batteries on Vignale beach, which offers a tranquil setting far from the hustle and bustle of the big seaside resorts.

For hiking enthusiasts, the Pinia forest is a must-see playground. Hiking trails take you through a forest of maritime pines, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Ghisonaccia also offers a wide range of accommodation. Whether you prefer a seaside gîte, a villa with private pool or an apartment in town, you'll find accommodation to suit your taste and budget.

For an authentic stay, don't hesitate to discover the local specialities and take part in the town's festivities. Ghisonaccia is proud of its traditions and invites you to discover them during your visit.

Don't forget to visit the church of Saint-Michel, one of the town's must-see monuments, for a moment of quiet contemplation.

Finally, Ghisonaccia is ideally located for exploring other Corsican gems. Bastia and Bonifacio are within easy reach for a day trip.

Ghisonaccia, with its authentic charm and diversity of activities, is the perfect choice for a memorable stay in Corsica.