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Lac de Nino Hike

The Lake Nino hike takes you to one of Corsica's natural wonders. Located at an altitude of 1,743 meters on the Camputile plateau, the lake is surrounded by numerous pozzines, small peat bogs dotted with interconnected water holes. The lake is the source of the Tavignanu, the second longest river on the island.

The hike begins with a walk through the magnificent Valdu Niellu forest, shaded by Laricio pines. Then, the route becomes more technical as it climbs toward Bocca a Stazzona. There, you can admire a magnificent panorama of Lake Nino with the Rotondo massif in the background. This route is very popular with hikers and offers a unique natural spectacle: horses and cows grazing freely in an exceptional setting.

Remarks

Parking: Depart from the Poppaghia Forest House on the D84. A large, free parking lot is available.

Alternative access: You can also access Lake Nino from Castellu di Vergio via the GR20. This route is less technical, but longer. Allow for around 16 kilometers and between five and six hours of walking there and back.

Site protection: Pozzines are fragile and rare ecosystems. To preserve them, swimming and walking on them is strictly forbidden. Camping is also prohibited around Lake Nino.

Difficulties and description of the hike

This ten-kilometer round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 720 meters requires sustained physical effort. The yellow-marked trail first crosses the Valdu Niellu forest on easy, shaded terrain and then joins the GR20.

After the Colga sheepfolds, the terrain gradually becomes more challenging, with a steep climb over scree and rocky slabs. A few slightly technical passages require the use of your hands. The highest point of the route is Bocca a Stazzona (1,775 m), where you can overlook the lake before descending to its shores.

What you'll love

The breathtaking view from Bocca a Stazzona of Lake Nino and its green pozzines with the majestic Rotondo massif in the background.
Watching horses, cows, and pigs grazing peacefully on the unique, unspoiled Camputile plateau.
The pozzines, a rare and fascinating ecosystem typical of Corsica that give the site its distinctive character.