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Punta di a Vacca Morta Hike

The Punta di a Vacca Morta hike takes you to a 1,316-meter-high peak in the heart of the Ospedale Forest. This accessible climb is rewarded with a magnificent 360-degree panorama. From the top, you can take in the Bay of Porto-Vecchio, Alta Rocca, Lake Ospedale, and the majestic Bavella peaks. On a clear day, you can even see the coast of Sardinia in the distance.

The moderate elevation gain and short distance make this hike an excellent choice for enjoying spectacular views without significant physical exertion.

Remarks

Parking: The trailhead is located in the hamlet of Cartalavone, across from the "Le Refuge" mountain hut. Free parking is available on site.

Mare a Mare Sud stage: Cartalavone marks the end of the first stage of the Mare a Mare Sud long-distance trek, which connects Porto-Vecchio to Propriano over the course of five days.

Difficulties and description of the hike

Despite a few steep sections in the final part, the climb is easy. The hike begins at the "Le Refuge" hut and follows the orange-marked Mare a Mare Sud trail through the pine forest.

After about 40 minutes, at the Foce Alta plateau, the route branches off from the main trail and heads toward the summit. The orange markings then disappear, giving way to numerous cairns that mark the route. The final climb to Punta di a Vacca Morta is steeper and rockier. It crosses an area of heather and pine trees before skirting spectacular granite formations.

What you'll love

An exceptional 360-degree panorama from the summit: You can see both coasts of the island at the same time, with the Bay of Porto-Vecchio and Lake Ospedale below.
The impressive granite rock formations with surprising shapes that mark the end of the route.
Walking through the Ospedale Forest, which is composed of majestic laricio pines and beech trees that provide welcome shade.