The Restonica valley
Gorges, turquoise river and mountain lakes: the Restonica is one of Corsica's finest natural treasures, just minutes from our studio.
Discover the Restonica valley
Some places stay with you for life. The Restonica valley is one of them. Carved by the river of the same name, it stretches fifteen kilometres south of Corte, in the heart of the Corsica regional nature park. Along the road, the gorges tighten, laricio pines cling to the rock and water tumbles between granite blocks in a refreshing roar.
What strikes you first is the colour of the water: deep turquoise, remarkably clear, inviting you to swim from the first warm days. Then comes the mountain silence, barely broken by the river. You quickly understand why so many visitors leave with vivid memories of this valley.
Did you know? The Restonica rises near Lake Melo, above 1,700 metres, before joining the Tavignanu at Corte. It is one of the purest rivers on the island.
Where to swim in the Restonica
All along the valley, the river forms natural pools and small waterfalls where you can cool off. The first pools are only minutes from the studio by car, ideal for a spontaneous dip at the end of the day. The further up the valley you go, the wilder and quieter the spots become.
A few tips to make the most of it:
- Come early in the morning to find a pool to yourself, especially in July and August.
- The water stays cool even in midsummer: part of the charm after a hike.
- Wear suitable shoes, the rocks can sometimes be slippery.
- Respect the place: always take your litter away to preserve this pure water.
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Mountain lakes: Melo and Capitello
At the end of the Restonica road stands the Grotelle sheepfold, starting point of one of Corsica's finest hikes. In a little over an hour on foot you reach Lake Melo, nestled in a mountain cirque. Allow another hour to reach Lake Capitello, higher and even more spectacular, often considered the island's most beautiful lake.
Good to know before you go
This hike needs proper footwear and a bit of stamina, but remains accessible to a fit walker. Leave early, take water and a windbreaker: weather changes fast at altitude. The view at the top is well worth the effort.
Access, parking and practical tips
From central Corte, you reach the valley entrance in a few minutes. The road up the gorges is narrow and winding: in high season car access is regulated and parking at Grotelle is limited. Better to leave early to avoid the crowds.
Staying in Corte, as in our studio, gives you a precious advantage: you are on site before the first visitors, without a long drive at dawn. You enjoy the valley in the best conditions, then return to rest steps from the town centre.
Staying steps from the Restonica
Our studio sits right at the start of the Restonica valley, a ten-minute walk from central Corte. Air-conditioned, bright and with a terrace, it is the ideal base to explore the gorges, swim from spot to spot and tackle the mountain lakes, before coming home to real comfort.
