Corsican Highland Circuit

The Corsican Highland Circuit loops through the island’s mountainous spine, connecting forgotten villages like Corte, Vizzavona, and Évisa via forestry roads that predate modern highways. The route climbs through chestnut forests to the Vizzavona Pass (1,163m) before descending toward the coast, passing the ruins of Genovese watchtowers and ancient stone bridges. The technical section between Évisa and Col de Vergio tests suspension and clearance on narrow granite shelves carved into cliffsides.

Moderate difficulty requires high-clearance vehicles but not necessarily 4WD — though low-range helps on steep granite slabs. Best tackled April through October when snow clears the passes. Stock up in Corte or Ajaccio; mountain villages have limited supplies. Wild camping is generally tolerated away from villages. This route delivers authentic Corsica — wild boar tracks, shepherd huts, and views of the Mediterranean that’ll remind you why Napoleon missed this island.