Ile Rousse: the Scandola Nature Reserve

Ile Rousse, a picturesque port town on the island of Corsica, serves as the gateway to the stunning Scandola Nature Reserve. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts breathtaking landscapes of jagged red cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and unique geological formations. Visitors can embark on a boat tour to explore the reserve’s diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive Mediterranean monk seal and majestic birds like the osprey and peregrine falcon. But the true allure of Scandola lies in the opportunity to take in Corsica’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• The Scandola Nature Reserve, accessible from the port of Ile Rousse, offers a 4.5-hour boat tour to explore over 900 hectares of land and 1000 hectares of seabed.
• The tour showcases Corsica’s breathtaking natural beauty, including jagged, red-hued cliffs sculpted by waves and erosion, and provides opportunities to observe unique flora and fauna.
• Visitors can enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters and snorkeling to explore caves and remarkable rock formations along the coastline.
• The tour is guided in both French and English and includes onboard music and snorkeling gear for a fully immersive experience.
• The tour is priced from SEK 1,101 per person, with a reserve now and pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the UNESCO World Heritage Site

Although the Scandola Nature Reserve is accessible only by boat, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Departing from the port of Ile Rousse, the 4.5-hour tour provides access to the park’s 900 hectares of land and 1000 hectares of seabed.

Guided by a live tour guide in French and English, travelers can explore the reserve’s volcanic red rocks, stunning coastal erosion formations, and diverse flora and fauna, including the osprey and peregrine falcon.

With onboard music and snorkeling gear, the tour also includes opportunities for swimming in the Mediterranean.

Exploring the Scandola Nature Reserve

The Scandola Nature Reserve is a true gem, showcasing Corsica’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Spanning 900 hectares of land and 1000 hectares of seabed, the reserve is home to volcanic red rocks and stunning coastal erosion formations.

Accessible only by boat, the reserve offers opportunities to explore cliffs, caves, and remarkable rock shapes.

Visitors can swim in the Mediterranean and enjoy onboard music and snorkeling gear.

With a live tour guide available in French and English, the 4.5-hour tour from the port of Ile Rousse provides an immersive experience in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Taking in the Volcanic Landscape

As visitors board the boat and set sail from the port of Ile Rousse, they’re immediately immersed in the volcanic landscape of the Scandola Nature Reserve.

Jagged, red-hued cliffs rise up from the Mediterranean, sculpted by waves and erosion over millennia. Guests can spot unique flora and fauna, including the osprey and peregrine falcon, nesting in the crevices.

They’ll have opportunities to swim in the crystal-clear waters and explore the caves and rock formations that dot the coastline.

On board, music and snorkeling gear add to the immersive experience of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Encountering Corsica’s Unique Flora and Fauna

While exploring the Scandola Nature Reserve, visitors have the chance to encounter Corsica’s unique flora and fauna. The protected area is home to a diverse array of species, including the majestic osprey and agile peregrine falcon. To better appreciate the local wildlife, consider the following:

| Species | Description |

| — | — |

| Osprey | Large raptor with brown upperparts and white underparts, known for its impressive fishing skills. |

| Peregrine Falcon | Fastest animal on Earth, capable of reaching speeds over 200 mph during a dive. |

| Mediterranean Monk Seal | Endangered species found in the reserve’s coastal waters, with only a few hundred remaining. |

| Myrtle | Fragrant evergreen shrub with white flowers, thriving in the reserve’s Mediterranean climate. |

| Aleppo Pine | Distinctive pine tree adapted to the region’s hot, dry conditions.

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Swimming in the Mediterranean Waters

Visitors to the Scandola Nature Reserve can enjoy the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the stunning Mediterranean waters.

The boat tour provides ample time for swimming, with onboard snorkeling gear available. Guests can explore the vibrant underwater world and cool off from the Mediterranean sun.

The crystal-clear waters offer an idyllic setting to take in the natural beauty of the reserve.

The crystal-clear waters offer an idyllic setting to take in the natural beauty of the reserve.

Whether it’s a quick dip or an extended swim, the chance to swim in the Mediterranean is a highlight of the Scandola Nature Reserve experience.

Experiencing the Tour’s Highlights

The Scandola Nature Reserve offers visitors an opportunity to explore a diverse array of natural wonders.

Travelers can marvel at the towering cliffs, captivating caves, and remarkable rock formations that dot the coastline.

Adding to the experience, the tour provides onboard music to set the mood as you cruise along the Mediterranean waters.

Guests can even enjoy a refreshing swim, with snorkeling gear available to discover the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.

Though the duration of the tour may test one’s seating comfort, the breathtaking scenery and unique activities make this a must-do experience for visitors to Corsica.

Booking and Availability Information

How does one go about booking this tour of the Scandola Nature Reserve? The tour is priced from SEK 1,101 per person. A reserve now and pay later option is available. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Check availability for starting times, as the tour departs from the port of Ile Rousse.

| Booking Information |

| — | — | — | — |

| Price | From SEK 1,101 per person |

| Reserve Now, Pay Later | Available |

| Cancellation | Free up to 24 hours in advance |

| Departure | Port of Ile Rousse |

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

What do customers have to say about the Scandola Nature Reserve tour? Based on the reviews, it’s a hit.

Visitors praise the stunning scenery, from the volcanic cliffs to the crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. One reviewer even calls it a "must-do activity in Corsica."

However, some note the tour’s lengthy duration can make the boat seating a bit uncomfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Languages Are the Live Tour Guides Available In?

The live tour guides for the Scandola Nature Reserve activity are available in both French and English, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the spectacular landscapes on the boat tour.

Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age or mobility restrictions. However, the boat journey and exploring the rocky terrain may not be suitable for those with limited mobility. It’s best to check with the tour operator if you have any concerns.

Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Gear or Is It Provided?

According to the tour details, snorkeling gear is provided for the Scandola Nature Reserve tour. Guests don’t need to bring their own snorkeling equipment, as it’s included as part of the activity.

How Many People Can the Boat Accommodate?

The tour boats can accommodate up to 30 passengers at a time. Snorkeling gear is provided on board, so there’s no need to bring your own. Guests can explore the Scandola Nature Reserve’s coastal wonders during the 4.5-hour excursion.

Are There Any Food or Beverage Options Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any food or beverages. Guests can bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the boat ride. There are no on-board catering options provided as part of the Scandola Nature Reserve excursion.

The Sum Up

Ile Rousse’s Scandola Nature Reserve offers visitors a chance to explore Corsica’s captivating natural wonders. From the dramatic red cliffs to the diverse marine life, the UNESCO site’s boat tour provides an immersive experience. Whether you seek to swim in the crystal-clear waters or spot rare wildlife, this exceptional destination promises an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s stunning landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: