From Serra-di-Fiumorbu to Catastaghju

(S) From the Serra di Fium’Orbu stopover lodge, follow the D45 for 500 m southwards, passing the^first track branching off to the right.

(1) Turn onto the path which curves slightly to the right shortly afterwards and climbs up onto the ridge, heading south-west. You will soon be walking through a vast, open landscape. You may stray briefly from the path at times, but a trail will guide you along the local track.

(2) Once past Punta di Giglio (666 metres), continue along the ridge, which now faces south.

(3) At an altitude of 770 m, you turn south-west. Still on the ridge, the path descends a few metres, then climbs slightly. Punta di Quarcio Grosso, 1,045 m, rises up ahead, but the path ends at an altitude of 957 m, as the Mare à Mare Centre route does not climb to the summit: it skirts around Punta di Quarcio Grosso to the south, heading towards Bocca di Minagoli, 893 m, which lies behind it. It is here that you’ll meet hikers on the Mare Monti Solenzara–Ghisoni route coming from the opposite direction, before heading down towards Ania.

(4) After the Bocca di Minagoli, you do not descend northwards, but continue at the same altitude, heading west to the Bocca di Ghjuva, at an elevation of 866 m, passing in front of the Corbaja, 1,012 m. The Mare e Monti Solenzara – Ghisoni route climbs from the south up to the Bocca di Ghjuva.

(5) It veers northwards at the Bocca di Ghjuva before descending through the pine forest towards the depths of the Corsican valleys. You soon reach a forest track at 785 m and continue towards a stream.

(6) Just after the stream, turn left (do not follow the path towards Ania) and continue a little further north at the same altitude.

(7) Carry on, turning left and leaving the path to Ania on your right. Head west to descend into the Abatesco valley. You’ll start by walking along a slightly wider path, then leave it on the right to follow the clearly marked signpost (620 m) and head down to the river, which flows here at an altitude of 523 m and offers magnificent swimming spots right next to the lodge.
You then cross the Abatesco via a sturdy bridge to reach the Catastaghju stopover lodge, which is situated alongside the road leading up from San Gavino di Fium’Orbu (E).

Source: Corsica, Willi and Kristin Hausmann, ROTHER – Hiking Guide

At a minimum: bring suitable hiking gear, walking boots and a water bottle.
Water source and shelter at the Bergeries de Scanciatella.
In winter, ensure you have suitable equipment for snowy conditions.
The Catastaghju lodge is open only during the summer months. Accommodation and meals are available by booking with the town hall.