Nestled along the rugged coastline of Corsica, Scandola and Girolata offer a natural escape unlike any other. Travelers can embark on a captivating cruise through the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve, marveling at the region’s volcanic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The journey culminates in the charming fishing village of Girolata, where visitors can savor fresh seafood and soak in the picturesque ambiance. However, the real allure lies in what lies beyond the surface, waiting to be discovered.
Key Points
- Scandola Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring dramatic volcanic cliffs, caves, and diverse marine life along the Corsican coastline.
- The tour includes a boat cruise through the turquoise waters of Scandola, allowing visitors to swim and enjoy the natural beauty.
- Girolata is a picturesque fishing village within Scandola, offering opportunities to explore charming streets, dine on fresh seafood, and enjoy a tranquil atmosphere.
- The excursion departs from the Port of Calvi and includes a guided exploration of Calvi’s historic citadel, providing insights into the town’s strategic importance.
- The 6-hour excursion is suitable for adults and children over 7, with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Excursion Details
The excursion to Scandola & Girolata departs from the Port of Calvi and lasts for 6 hours. Priced at $125.40 per person, the activity allows for flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include exploring Calvi’s citadel, visiting the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve, and stopping in the picturesque fishing village of Girolata.
Explore Calvi’s citadel, visit the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve, and stop in the picturesque fishing village of Girolata.
Lunch options include local restaurants or a picnic. The tour is suitable for adults and children over 7, though not recommended for pregnant women or those with heart conditions.
Customers have provided mixed reviews, though the scenic views and visit to Scandola were generally enjoyed.
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Departure and Itinerary
Departing at 9:00 a.m. from the Port of Calvi, the excursion first explores Calvi and its famous citadel, with a guide providing commentary on the historical significance of the area.
Next, the tour ventures into the Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where visitors can witness the striking volcanic cliffs, caves, and faults.
After exploring Scandola, the group stops in the picturesque fishing village of Girolata for a 1.5-hour visit, allowing time to enjoy the crystal-clear waters with a swimming opportunity.
Exploring Calvi and Its Citadel
After departing from the Port of Calvi, the excursion first explores the city and its famous citadel. A guide provides commentary as participants wander through the historic streets, admiring the well-preserved architecture.
The citadel, a stronghold dating back to the 13th century, stands tall, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can stroll along the ramparts, learning about the citadel’s strategic importance and its role in Calvi’s past.
This introduction to the city sets the stage for the main attractions of the Scandola Nature Reserve and the picturesque fishing village of Girolata.
Visiting Scandola Nature Reserve
What awaits visitors as they leave Calvi and its historic citadel behind? A journey to the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve, a breathtaking coastal landscape.
Travelers cruise along the rugged shoreline, marveling at the steep volcanic cliffs, caves, and faults carved by the elements. The boat weaves through the turquoise waters, offering glimpses of the diverse marine life below.
Visitors can even stop to swim in the crystal-clear waters, seeing the natural beauty. The guided tour provides commentary on the reserve’s unique geology and ecology, deepening one’s appreciation for this stunning protected area.
More Great Tours NearbyDiscovering the Volcanic Wonders
As the boat glides along the rugged coastline, visitors are treated to a mesmerizing display of volcanic wonders in the Scandola Nature Reserve. Towering cliffs, carved by time and the elements, reveal a tapestry of geological formations. Caves and faults dot the landscape, offering glimpses into the island’s volcanic past. The crystal-clear waters below invite exploration, with opportunities to swim and witness the vibrant marine life. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the power and beauty of nature’s geological processes.
| Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| Cliffs | Towering, rugged formations carved by time and elements |
| Caves | Openings in the rock revealing the island’s volcanic history |
| Faults | Cracks and fractures in the landscape, a result of tectonic activity |
Stop in Girolata: Picturesque Fishing Village
The excursion makes a stop in the picturesque fishing village of Girolata, a quaint coastal settlement nestled within a dramatic landscape.
Visitors can explore the charming streets and dine at local restaurants, savoring the freshly caught seafood.
For those who prefer a more casual lunch, a picnic option is available, though not included in the tour price.
The stop in Girolata provides a chance to take in the tranquil atmosphere of this remote village, offering a respite from the earlier exploration of the rugged Scandola Nature Reserve.
Dining Options in Girolata
Where can visitors enjoy their lunch during the stop in Girolata?
Visitors have two options for their midday meal. They can dine at one of the local restaurants in the picturesque fishing village, sampling traditional Corsican cuisine.
Alternatively, they can opt for a picnic lunch, bringing their own food and enjoying it in the scenic surroundings.
However, the price of the excursion doesn’t include any meals, so visitors will need to budget for their lunch expenses.
Whether dining out or packing a picnic, the stop in Girolata provides an opportunity to refuel and take in the charming atmosphere.
Important Considerations and Feedback
Although the excursion is suitable for adults and children over 7 years old, it isn’t recommended for pregnant women or individuals with heart conditions.
The meeting point can be checked via Google Maps, and customers are advised to bring swimsuits, suitable clothing, and sun protection.
Based on reviews, the scenic views and visit to Scandola Nature Reserve were enjoyed, but the experience in Girolata was disappointing due to cloudy water, a rough return trip, and lack of refreshments.
Improvements suggested include a better boat for swimming and providing water onboard to ensure a more comfortable and safe experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Excursion?
The excursion’s maximum group size is not specified in the provided information. The details only mention that the activity is suitable for adults and children over 7 years old, without providing a specific group size limit.
Are Professional Photography Services Available During the Tour?
The overview doesn’t mention any professional photography services. There’s no information on whether guests can hire a photographer to capture the scenic views and activities during the tour.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat for the excursion. The tour price doesn’t include meals, so travelers have the option to bring a picnic lunch or purchase food from local restaurants in Girolata.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
Based on the details provided, there’s no mention of any discounts for children or seniors. The price listed is a flat rate of $125.40 per person, regardless of age. The excursion seems suitable for adults and children over 7 years old.
Is This Excursion Wheelchair Accessible?
The excursion is not wheelchair accessible. The trip involves walking, uneven terrain, and entering/exiting a boat, which may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. The tour operator does not offer wheelchair-friendly options for this particular excursion.
The Sum Up
The Scandola & Girolata excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve. From the dramatic volcanic cliffs to the charming fishing village of Girolata, this journey provides a captivating blend of natural wonders and local culture. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience in one of Corsica’s most remarkable coastal destinations.
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