I Pozzi at the start of the Val d'Ese

Departure: Car park at the Val d'Ese ski resort
From the village of Bastelica, follow the road to the Val d'Ese resort (about a 20-minute drive). Park in the large tarmac car park at the end of the road.

(S/E) From the car park, go around the chalet restaurant on the right and climb up to find the Fontaine du Comte.

(1) The trail starts here and climbs gradually through the old mountain pastures. This route, which is gentler than the direct climb via the ski lift, offers beautiful views of the ski area and the Gulf of Ajaccio in the distance. The well-marked path climbs in regular switchbacks and, after a steady effort, reaches the small plateau of Tarmini. You rejoin the route at a small grassy plateau where the ruins of a hut can be found.

(2) Cross the plateau to the left towards a rocky peak (1956 m on the IGN map). Pass at its foot and follow the well-marked path that runs along the ridge on its western side to reach the Col de Scaldasole (1949 m) and its crossroads. The view opens up magnificently, with the Gulf of Ajaccio on one side and the Renoso massif on the other.

(3) Follow the sign for "I Pozzi" on the right and begin the descent. Continue downhill. The trail descends to a wooden sign. Continue slightly further to reach the point where the view of the Pozzi is magnificent. It is a unique panorama of this ancient glacial lake, now filled in and forming a mosaic of lawns and water "wells".

(4) Following the direction of the water flow, descend to the sheepfolds. This is where shepherd Jean-François works, and you can buy his excellent sheep's cheese. There is also a pleasant source of fresh water.

(5) At the sheepfolds, turn right. The trail enters a beautiful forest of beech trees ("U Faiu") with gnarled trunks. After about 15-20 minutes of descent, you will come to a fork marked by wooden signs on a tree.

(6) Head towards Ese on the right, following the yellow markings. The trail crosses the beech forest, crosses a small river, and then the landscape becomes more rocky as you approach the Col de Foce d'Astra. You will come out near a small stone refuge, unguarded and open all year round, which has a central fireplace.

(7) From the refuge, the trail descends gently towards the starting point. It takes about 30 minutes to walk back to the car park at the Val d'Ese resort (S/E).

Water sources: There is a fresh water source at Bergeries des Pozzi. However, you should still bring at least 1.5 litres of water per person.

Best time to visit: Spring (May-June) is ideal for green grass and water-filled pozzines. Autumn is also a very beautiful season. In summer, set off very early to avoid the heat.

Equipment: High-top hiking boots are essential. Wear clothing suitable for the mountains (3-layer system), sun protection (hat, cream, sunglasses) and a waterproof jacket, as the weather can change very quickly at altitude.

Safety: Check the weather forecast before setting off. Thunderstorms are frequent in summer, especially in the afternoon, so it is advisable to avoid the ridges at this time.

Village of Bastelica: explore the birthplace of Sampiero Corso, accessible by road. It is well worth a visit for its heritage and mountain atmosphere.

Flora and fauna: Keep your eyes peeled, as the site is a sanctuary of biodiversity, home to rare and endemic species.

Please do not pick or touch any plants.

Plan your stay

To plan your visit, find a restaurant or accommodation, or discover all the other activities in the area, please contact the Celavu Prunelli Tourist Office. Our team will be happy to advise you and help make your stay a success.

Email: info@celavuprunelli.corsica

Telephone: +33 (0)4 95 22 55 13

Website: www.celavuprunelli.corsica