Ajaccio, the sunny capital of Corsica, is an ideal starting point for discovering the wonders of the island's west coast. Among the most prized destinations is Girolata, a picturesque village accessible only by sea or on foot. With Cappai Cruises, explore the wild beauty of this region through unforgettable sea walks, which will reveal breathtaking landscapes, isolated coves, and rich marine biodiversity. Prepare yourself for an exceptional maritime adventure departing from Ajaccio.
Departure from Ajaccio - The Beginning of the Adventure
Your excursion begins at the Tino Rossi port in Ajaccio, a vibrant and animated place where excitement is palpable. Cappai Cruises boats await you, ready to take you on an unforgettable adventure. Comfortably seated, passengers can enjoy the first panoramic views of the city of Ajaccio, with its imposing citadel and golden beaches. The morning departure allows you to admire the soft colors of sunrise over the Mediterranean. Cappai Cruises boats are equipped for comfort and safety, with open deck spaces to enjoy the views and shaded areas for relaxation.
The Sanguinaires Islands - A Spectacular First Stop
A few kilometers from Ajaccio lie the Sanguinaires Islands, an archipelago composed of four main islands. These islands are famous for their red rocks that take on a spectacular hue at sunset, hence their evocative name. Cruises often include a stop on the island of Mezzu Mare, the largest of the archipelago, where visitors can disembark and explore. The island offers hiking trails that lead to the lighthouse, from where you can admire a panoramic view of the Gulf of Ajaccio and the Mediterranean Sea.
Sailing to the Scandola Natural Reserve
After leaving the Sanguinaires Islands, the boat sets course for the Scandola Natural Reserve. This reserve, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its volcanic rock formations, steep cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. As you approach the reserve, passengers are amazed by the wild and untouched beauty of the landscapes. Boat excursions allow you to enter sea caves, navigate between natural arches, and explore isolated beaches. Cappai Cruises guides, often passionate naturalists, share information about the region's unique geology and exceptional biodiversity.
The Calanques of Piana - Breathtaking Landscapes
The Calanques of Piana, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, are another natural gem to discover during sea walks with Cappai Cruises. Located between Ajaccio and Girolata, these rock formations offer spectacular landscapes of red cliffs plunging into turquoise waters. The Calanques of Piana are renowned for their wild beauty and unique geology, attracting nature lovers and photographers from around the world. Boat excursions allow you to navigate between cliffs, natural arches, and sea caves, offering unparalleled views of these impressive geological formations.
Girolata - A Village Out of Time
The cruise continues towards Girolata, a small fishing village accessible only by sea or by a steep hiking trail. Nestled in a protected bay, Girolata offers a picturesque setting with its stone houses, narrow alleys, and peaceful atmosphere. The village, once a refuge port for Genoese ships, is today a prized destination for its natural beauty and isolation. Visitors can disembark and explore the village on foot, discovering its heritage and history. The Girolata fort, an ancient Genoese fortification, overlooks the bay and offers an unparalleled view of the surroundings.
Secret Beaches and Coves
The return to Ajaccio often includes stops in isolated coves and secret beaches, accessible only by boat. These hidden places offer incomparable tranquility and natural beauty. Passengers can relax on golden sand, swim in turquoise waters, and explore the seabed while snorkeling. Among the most remarkable beaches is Roccapina Beach, with its fine sand and famous 'Lion of Roccapina', a natural rock formation in the shape of a lion. The coves around Scandola and Girolata also offer spectacular landscapes and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming.
Sunsets on the Sanguinaires Islands
Sunsets on the Sanguinaires Islands are a magical and unmissable experience during a sea walk with Cappai Cruises. Located a few kilometers from Ajaccio, these islands offer a dazzling natural spectacle when the sun plunges into the Mediterranean, coloring the sky and rocks with flamboyant hues. The golden evening light transforms the granite cliffs into a living painting of reds, oranges, and purples, creating an enchanting and romantic atmosphere. Late-day excursions allow visitors to enjoy this spectacle under ideal conditions.
