Corsica > Scenery > Scandola Nature Reserve

Visit Scandola Nature Reserve in Corsica

The Scandola Natural Reserve (created 1975) is a World Heritage Site found to the north east of Calvi, on the Cape Girolata peninsula.

The reserve covers approximately 900 hectares of land and 1000 hectares of sea.

There is no way to enter the region by car, and to enter by foot involves crossing very high mountains, so in practice the only way to enjoy the splendours of this coastline is by taking a boat - trips leave from Calvi, and less frequently from Porto. The trip is worth making and recommended, to see some of the finest coastline to be found anywhere.

Strange rock formations emerge from the crystal clear sea in the Gulf of Girolata, and the coastline is peppered with jagged inlets and caves.

Always beautiful but especially so later in the afternoon, as the rocks catch the setting sun. Set against the blue of the sea and sky, the colours and shapes are an extraordinary sight.

The Scandola region also has a wide range of sea birds - including cormorants and giant gulls - that benefit from the protected environment. There are also established seal and dolphin colonies. Ospreys are also becoming established in the region, after great efforts by conservationists.

And keep looking into the water - the area is said to have more than 450 different seaweeds!

One of the most recognisable views of Corsica, at Scandola

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---