Lotu and Saleccia Beaches Hike
Key facts about the hike
- Duration
- 7h30 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
- Distance
- 27.3km
- out and back
- Elevation gain
- 320m
- Type of route
- Out and back
- Maximum altitude
- 61 m
- Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
- No
- Marked
- Yes
- Popularity
- Low
- Region
- North-West
- Start point
- 42.67709, 9.28366
- Activity
- Hiking
Hike overview
Discover two white-sand paradises: Lotu and Saleccia beaches, located in the heart of the Agriates Desert near Saint-Florent. Saleccia Beach, which is one kilometer long with turquoise waters and is lined with dunes of juniper and Aleppo pine trees, is renowned as one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Accessible only by boat or on foot, these two beaches are preserved from excessive crowds.
The hike follows the famous sentier des douaniers' path along the coast, revealing exceptional wild landscapes punctuated by coves that invite you to take a dip.
Map and elevation profile of the hike
Lotu and Saleccia Beaches Hike
Difficulties of the hike
The coastal path, also known as the sentier des douaniers' path, has no particular technical difficulty and remains flat for most of the route, with an elevation gain of only 320 meters spread over the entire itinerary.
The main difficulty lies in the route's length: the round-trip distance from Roya Beach is 27.3 km, or about 7.5 hours of walking. There is significant exposure to the sun, with very little shade available along the trail, making the hike particularly challenging in the summer. You will need to cross the Fiume Santu river: this crossing is not difficult, but the water depth can range from knee to waist high.
What you'll love
- Two idyllic white-sand beaches with crystal-clear waters, among the most beautiful in Haute-Corse
- The unspoiled natural setting of the Agriates Desert, protected by the Conservatoire du littoral since 1979, with views of Cap Corse and the Gulf of Saint-Florent
- The wild and isolated coves dotted along the route, perfect for refreshing swims
- The Genoese Tower of Mortella, a historic 16th-century building perched on a rock battered by the waves
Practical information
Boat shuttles
Boats run between Saint-Florent, Lotu, and Saleccia beaches throughout the summer season with regular departures and a crossing time of approximately 20–25 minutes. It is recommended that you book your return ticket in advance, especially during the high season.
Multiple hiking options
There are several options for exploring these beaches. The complete itinerary described here (27.3 km, 7.5 hours) starts and ends at Roya Beach. For a more accessible experience, you can combine walking and boating (shuttle bus to and/or from Saint-Florent). The shortest option is to take a boat to and from Lotu Beach and walk only between the two beaches (6.8 km, 2 hours). See the "More details on the hike" section to choose the option that suits you best.
Water and supplies
There are no drinking water sources along the trail. Be sure to bring at least two to three liters of water per person. In the summer, the Saleccia campsite beach bar may be open (food and drinks).
More details on the hike
Here are the different options for exploring Lotu and Saleccia beaches, from easiest to most difficult:
1️⃣ Lotu and Saleccia beaches with round trip by boat (Easy, 6.8 km, 2 hours)
➝ The simplest option to explore these two legendary beaches. Ideal for families. Download the GPX track
2️⃣ Lotu Beach with return trip by boat (Easy, 12.1 km, 3.5 hours)
➝ Not recommended: it's a shame to miss beautiful Saleccia Beach! Download the GPX track
3️⃣ Lotu and Saleccia beaches with return trip by boat (Moderate, 18.9 km, 5 hours)
➝ A good compromise. Download the GPX track
4️⃣ Lotu Beach (Moderate, 19.7 km, 5.5 hours)
➝ Not recommended: you'll miss Saleccia, one of the most beautiful beaches in Corsica! Download the GPX track
5️⃣ Lotu and Saleccia beaches from Roya Beach (Hard, 27.3 km, 7.5 hours)
➝ The recommended complete route for those who don't want to take the boat. Wild and spectacular! Download the GPX track
6️⃣ Lotu and Saleccia beaches from Saint-Florent (Hard, 30.9 km, 8.5 hours)
➝ The challenge for hikers looking for a long, demanding adventure. Download the GPX track
Photos
See all 23 photos →
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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/corsica/beaches-of-lotu-and-saleccia/