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Customs path Hike

By François · updated in June 202506/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Moderate Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
4h Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
11.7km
Elevation gain
360m
Type of route
One way
Maximum altitude
130 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
Yes
Popularity
Moderate
Region
Cap Corse
Start point
42.96440, 9.45167
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

The Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers' Path) runs from Macinaggio to Barcaggio along the rugged coast of Cap Corse. This route passes through an extraordinary landscape of white sandy beaches, aromatic scrubland, and Genoese towers. The route offers spectacular views of the Finocchiarola and Giraglia islands, as well as the coastline against the backdrop of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Customs path Hike

Difficulties of the hike

This marked trail does not present any notable technical challenges. The only significant elevation gain occurs after Capandola Bay, where the trail climbs 130 meters to cross a pass before descending toward the Agnello Tower.

Although the route is accessible, the lack of shade and constant sun exposure make this long walk challenging. Good stamina is therefore essential.

What you'll love

  • The succession of idyllic beaches with crystal-clear waters: Tamarone, Cala Genovese, and Cala Francese, where you can swim along the way.
  • The perfectly preserved 16th-century Genoese towers, notably the Santa Maria tower at the water's edge and the Agnello tower perched on its rocky promontory.
  • Spectacular views of the Finocchiarola Islands, an offshore bird sanctuary, and the island of Giraglia with its iconic lighthouse.

Practical information

Route is from point A to point B

If you wish to make a round trip, double the time and distance. The most common option is to use the San Paulu ferry service, which connects Barcaggio to Macinaggio during the summer (usually from May to September). Be sure to book your ticket in Macinaggio before your departure.

Tamarone beach
Tamarone beach
Macinaggio Marina
Macinaggio Marina
Beach and village of Macinaggio
Beach and village of Macinaggio
Tamarone beach
Tamarone beach
Genoese Tower
Genoese Tower
Finocchiarola Islands
Finocchiarola Islands
Santa Maria Tower
Santa Maria Tower
Customs path – photo 8
Wilderness trail
Wilderness trail
Magnificent coastal path
Magnificent coastal path
Santa Maria Tower
Santa Maria Tower
Santa Maria Tower
Santa Maria Tower
Giraglia Island
Giraglia Island
View to the south after the circuit's only ascent
View to the south after the circuit's only ascent
Barcaggio and Cala beach
Barcaggio and Cala beach
Genoese tower of Agnello
Genoese tower of Agnello
Customs path – photo 17
Agnello Tower
Agnello Tower
Agnello Tower
Agnello Tower
Cap Corse
Cap Corse
Giraglia Island
Giraglia Island
A very short passage in the shade!
A very short passage in the shade!

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/corsica/the-customs-path/