Nino Lake Hike
Key facts about the hike
- Difficulty
- Moderate Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
- Duration
- 4h30 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
- Distance
- 9.9km
- out and back
- Elevation gain
- 720m
- Type of route
- Out and back
- Maximum altitude
- 1,775 m
- Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
- Slightly
- Marked
- Yes
- Popularity
- High
- Region
- Center
- Start point
- 42.28414, 8.92106
- Activity
- Hiking
Hike overview
The Nino Lake 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.
Map and elevation profile of the hike
Nino Lake Hike
Difficulties 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.
Practical information
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.
Photos
See all 15 photos →
More hikes to do in Corsica
Nearby hikes
Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/corsica/lac-de-nino/