Monte Padru from Asco

Park on the D147 after Asco, by a bridge at the junction with a track; there’s no designated car park, but there’s space for a few cars.

(S/E) Look out for the cairns marking the path on the right-hand side of the road. Please note that this path is not shown on the IGN map but is clearly marked on the OSM map.
Follow the cairns up a fairly steep slope along this path to reach the Ruisseau de Santonaccio.

(1) Cross the stream, then continue along the edge of the maquis, still following the cairns. Cross the Casanovaccia stream to reach the Entradra sheepfolds.

(2) Carry on and pass a section where you’ll need to use your hands. Continue through the maquis, still climbing steeply, to reach the clearing on the Plateau de Tula.

(3) Here, tackle the highly technical section leading to the summit. Cross the long scree slope on a mountainside, off the beaten track with little signposting; the very fine, slippery stones sometimes force you to take a step forward and then slide back just as far. Reach the final section below the summit.

(4) Caution here: the final few metres involve climbing sections or horizontal traverses using your hands to finally reach the summit, and are only recommended for experienced hikers who are comfortable with this type of terrain.

(5) Follow the same route back as on the way up to return to the car park (S/E), taking great care on the highly technical descent over scree and rocky ground.

(2) Bergeries de l’Entrada: there is a spring here where you can top up your water supplies. It is also a good place to camp overnight if you’re planning to reach the summit over two days.
Note: this trip took 8 hours’ walking (ascent/descent) plus a 2-hour break. Allow more time depending on your fitness level; some people complete it in 11 hours’ walking plus a 2-hour break. Set off at sunrise and ensure you’re on summer time to avoid crowds and to manage the snow.

(5) The summit of Monte Padru: offers a magnificent view of the whole of Haute-Corse; it is possible to see both ends of Corsica, a view not available from all the island’s peaks.