The Coscionu plateau, magical landscapes


The Coscione plateau, at an altitude of 1,500 metres, was a mecca for pastoralists in the 19th century, when it was home to over 150 families. Numerous dry-stone ruins bear witness to a time when the plateau was a place for transhumance. Today, some shepherds still bring their flocks here to spend the summer eating the fresh grass. The Coscione plateau is easily accessible from the coast of southern Corsica. You can go for a cool hike before returning to the beach at the end of the day. The plateau is largely covered by green expanses of damp, ‘spongy’ grassland. These are found here because the plateau was once a glacial meltwater lake that has gradually been filled in by peat. Pozzines, little pools of water in the middle of the grass, are a regular feature, and sometimes even give the impression that little grassy islands are floating on the water. Despite appearances, this plateau is far from being a desert! On the contrary, you'll mainly come across horses, cows and pigs roaming freely, all seeming to live peacefully together and relatively indifferent to passing visitors. But beware of the voracious curiosity of some pigs!
 

  Water trail (2h15): Gently sloping path that follows a small stream for 1km then progresses over pozzines.
 
  Punta di Ghjavingnolu path (2h15): A largely flat section then a short climb to the summit of Punta di Ghjavingolu for a 360° panorama.
 
  Stone path (1h45): The trail rises gradually through granite boulders and then descends through juniper trees.
 
  Sentier de Castellu d'Ornucciu (or Punta di Rinucciu) (2h45): This path rises fairly quickly up the slope to the summit of Castellu d'Ornucciu, offering panoramic views of several Corsican peaks, then joins the stone path.
 
  Shepherds' path (3h30): This path winds its way between granite boulders and slabs and passes by ancient sheepfolds in ruins. Among other things, it offers a view of the summit of Alcudina.
 

Length of walk :  entre 1.45 et 3.30 heures
Difficulty :  Easy


Please note that the following are prohibited :
All collections, motor vehicle traffic, fires, bivouacs, camping and rubbish.


To find out more

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