Top 20 Lakes in Haute-Corse

Haute-Corse offers several popular glacial lakes known for their stunning beauty and hiking opportunities. Among them, Lake Melo in the Upper Restonica Valley is a favorite, especially for those on the GR20. Not far, Lake Capitello is recognized as the deepest natural mountain lake in Corsica, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking views. Lake Nino is also highly regarded for its unique 'pozzine' (spongy peatlands) and wild horses.

Yes, there are options suitable for families and beginners. The hike to Lake Melo offers a gradual ascent through captivating mountain scenery, featuring waterfalls and pine forests, making it suitable for varying skill levels. It's relatively accessible, requiring about an hour's walk from the road. Additionally, Lac de Creno (though often associated with Corse-du-Sud) offers an easy trail ideal for a relaxing family hike, where donkeys can even be hired.

The lakes in Haute-Corse are primarily of glacial origin, formed over 10,000 years ago. A unique feature found at Lake Nino are the 'pozzine' – spongy peatlands with natural watering holes. Lac de Creno is distinctive as the only mountain lake surrounded by conifers, specifically Laricio pines, and is covered with water lilies. Many trails also feature refreshing waterfalls, such as the Bucatoggio Waterfall and Radule waterfall.

The best time to visit is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when the trails are clear of snow and the weather is most favorable for hiking. Due to their high altitude, many lakes, like Lake Capitello, remain frozen for approximately eight months of the year. Early morning visits are often recommended for the best views and to potentially spot wildlife like golden eagles or bearded vultures.

Swimming is generally prohibited in several of the mountain lakes to protect their delicate ecosystems and biodiversity. Specifically, swimming is forbidden in Lake Nino and Lac de Creno to preserve their natural state. It's always best to check local regulations for each specific lake you plan to visit.

Hiking difficulty varies significantly. The trek to Lake Melo is considered a gradual ascent suitable for varying skill levels. However, the hike to Lake Capitello is challenging, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views. The route to Lake Nino involves an enjoyable walk through the Vergio forest before a more challenging, shorter ascent over rocks. For those seeking solitude and a challenging adventure, the hike to Lac de Gloria is difficult but rewarding.

Beyond hiking to the lakes themselves, Haute-Corse offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous waterfall hikes, with routes like the 'Loop of the Ucelluline waterfall' or the 'English Falls' offering diverse experiences. For cyclists, there are extensive road cycling routes, including the challenging 'Tour of Cap Corse Loop', and gravel biking trails such as the 'Scenic Singletrack Trail – Urbino Lagoon loop'.

Yes, for those seeking solitude, Lac de Gloria is a more secluded body of water located at an altitude of 2000 meters in the Monte Renosu massif. It is less frequented by tourists, offering a difficult but rewarding experience through steep paths to a pristine, solitary lake where you can recharge in nature.

Lac de Nino is particularly special for its 'pozzine' – spongy peatlands with natural watering holes – and the wild horses that graze there, creating a unique and serene landscape. It's a glacial lake situated at 1763 meters in the Niolu Valley, offering incredible panoramic views after a trek through the Vergio forest.

Visitors frequently praise the magical atmosphere and pristine beauty of the lakes. Many highlight the breathtaking views, especially from above Lake Capitello, and the unique natural colors around Lac de Bastani. The opportunity to observe wildlife, such as wild horses at Lake Nino or jackdaws at Lake Capitello, also adds to the experience. The tranquility and unspoiled environment are consistently mentioned as major draws.

Lac de Melo is known for its distinctive 'apple' shape and is a popular, relatively accessible stop for hikers in the Upper Restonica Valley. It's about 200 meters below Lac de Capitello. Lac de Capitello, on the other hand, is the deepest natural mountain lake in Corsica and requires a more challenging hike, rewarding visitors with stunning views, particularly from above. Both are glacial lakes in close proximity, often visited together.