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Monacia-d'Aullène Hike

By François · updated in June 202506/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Easy Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
3h15 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
6.9km
Elevation gain
360m
Type of route
Loop
Maximum altitude
355 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
No
Popularity
Moderate
Region
South-West
Start point
41.51207, 9.00765
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

On this walk along the Monacia d'Aullène Heritage Trail, you will travel back in time to the Mesolithic Era. You will discover the fascinating orrii, which are cave dwellings nestled in tafoni—cavities carved out of rock by wind erosion. Used at different times as dwellings, warehouses, or burial sites, the orrii bear witness to the region's rich history and culture.

Of the fifty orrii in the region, three are accessible along the trail. Don't miss the most impressive one, the Oriu de Grussetu, which is perched on a hill off the usual tourist route. This majestic building overlooks the sea and offers a breathtaking view of the southern part of the island.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Monacia-d'Aullène Hike

Difficulties of the hike

The hike is not difficult. Although it is not marked, it is clearly signposted throughout the 4-kilometer loop. Most of the route is shaded by oak trees and has good terrain.

To reach the Oriu de Grussetu, leave the main loop at the double stone wall and follow a path dotted with cairns. This section is a relatively steep climb of about 45 minutes.

What you'll love

  • Discover three orii accessible directly from the heritage trail, witnesses to Corsican history.
  • The impressive Oriu de Grussetu, built into a huge tafoni rock, which offers an exceptional panorama of the far south of Corsica.
  • A shaded and refreshing walk through the cork oaks and maquis, pleasant even in summer.
  • The explanatory panels that enrich your understanding of the region's historical and archaeological heritage.

Practical information

The oriu of Grussetu

Don't miss it! It is truly the most impressive and least frequented oriu, offering the most beautiful view. However, it is difficult to find. Even a few meters away, it remains hidden behind a huge rock. Once you reach the heights, don't hesitate to explore the surroundings, or bring a GPS to locate it for sure.

Oriu
Oriu
Oriu
Oriu
Heritage trail
Heritage trail
Cork oak
Cork oak
Heritage trail
Heritage trail
Oriu
Oriu
Cork oak
Cork oak
View from oriu Grussetu
View from oriu Grussetu
Oriu Grussetu
Oriu Grussetu
Oriu Grussetu
Oriu Grussetu
Oriu Grussetu
Oriu Grussetu
Oriu Grussetu
Oriu Grussetu
Oriu Grussetu
Oriu Grussetu
Heritage trail
Heritage trail
Cork oak
Cork oak

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/corsica/monacia-daullene/