In July-August, coastal Corsica can hit 35 °C. Hiking turns into an ordeal if you have not picked the right itinerary. Luckily, the hinterland offers trails that stay shaded almost the whole way — here are our 7 favourites around Ajaccio.
1. Cuttoli-Corticchiato loop (chestnut grove)
2h30, +250 m. Under a dense canopy of century-old chestnut trees, this trail stays cool even at midday in August. Several springs let you refill your water bottles. Easy to moderate level, suitable for children from 8 years old.
2. Prunelli valley trail
2h, +180 m. The descent along the Prunelli river is shaded by oaks and alders on the riverbanks. Bonus: a possible swim in the natural pools at the lowest point. This is the "perfect temperature" hike of our list.
3. Laricio pine forest of Val d'Ese
3h, +400 m. At 1,200 m altitude, under a dense canopy of century-old laricio pines. Ground-level temperatures drop to 22-24 °C even when it hits 35 °C in Ajaccio. Moderate level.
4. Bavella forest (southern edge)
4h, +500 m. A bit further (2 to 2h30 by car from Tolla) but worth the detour: cathedral-like laricio pine forest, pink granite and streams. Best combined with a weekend in the south of the island.
5. Col de Verde trail
3h, +350 m. At 1,289 m altitude, on the GR20 route between the Capanelle and Prati refuges, the Col de Verde opens into the heart of a majestic century-old beech grove and a laricio pine forest. Shade guaranteed throughout the trail, with panoramic views over the Fium'Orbo and Taravo valleys.
6. Bocognano springs loop
2h30, +250 m. Chestnut grove + natural springs. Swim stop possible in the rock pools.
7. Piscia di Ghjaddu waterfall trail
4.7 km round trip, 1h30 to 2h15, +200 m of elevation. The waterfall is 60 m high, in the heart of the Ospédale forest (Alta Rocca). Far from Tolla (around 3 h by car via Zonza), so best combined with a stay around Porto-Vecchio. Worth a mention for its constant shade and the refreshing swim at the foot of the waterfall.
