Lion of Roccapina

The Lion de Roccapina hike will take you on a journey of discovery to one of the most iconic sites in southern Corsica: a rock sculpted by erosion that resembles the silhouette of a reclining lion watching over two magnificent, turquoise-watered, sandy beaches.

The coastal circuit offers spectacular views from the 17th-century Genoese tower. There, you can admire the wild and unspoiled beaches of Roccapina and Erbaju. Despite the site's popularity, the absence of buildings preserves the landscape's authenticity, making this hike an unforgettable experience in the Sartenais region.

Remarks

Access: To reach the starting point, take a dirt track for about 3 km from the T40. This road is rough and bumpy but passable by all vehicles, provided you drive slowly. There is a parking lot near Roccapina Beach.

Difficulties and description of the hike

The trail is not marked, but it is generally clearly visible and dotted with a few cairns. Some sections cross scrubland where the route can be less obvious, especially on the way back from Erbaju Beach. It is recommended that you have a GPS track to avoid getting lost in these areas.

There is little shade along the entire route, which makes the hike more challenging in the summer. However, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views and two idyllic beaches where you can relax and cool off!

What you'll love

  • Spectacular views from the Genoese tower overlooking the two bays, the Lion of Roccapina, and the Sartenais coastline.
  • The two superb sandy beaches with turquoise waters, ideal for a refreshing swim. Erbaju beach is wilder and less crowded.
  • The impressive rock formation of the Lion of Roccapina, sculpted by the elements and seemingly watching over the bay.

Hike technical sheet

Activity: Hiking
Difficulty: EasyiDifficulty levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Average duration: 2 hiFind out how we calculate the duration here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Length: 3.8 km
Type of route: Loop
Elevation gain: 230 m
Maximum altitude: 140 m
Vertiginous: NoiVertiginous levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Marked: No
Popularity: Moderate
Region: Southwest
Start point: 41.49715, 8.93422
Lion of Roccapina