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France
Corsica
Calvi

Moncale

The best walks and hikes around Moncale

4.5

(4862)

29,258

hikers

200

hikes

Hiking around Moncale offers access to diverse landscapes within the Balagne region of Corsica. The area is characterized by its hillside location, providing expansive views of Montegrosso and the village of Calenzana. Hikers can explore a varied terrain of mountains and forests, with routes often crossing streams that feed into the Figarella river. The surrounding landscape, historically cultivated with olive and fruit trees, presents a blend of natural beauty and agricultural terraces.

Best hiking trails around Moncale

  • The most popular hiking route is View of Calenzana – Superb view over two valleys loop from Calenzana, a 5.1 miles (8.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 36 minutes to complete, offering extensive views across two valleys.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is View of Calenzana – On the GR20 loop from Calenzana, a moderate 2.9 miles (4.7 km) path. This route provides a section of the renowned GR20 trail, known for its rugged mountain scenery.
  • Local hikers also love the Elephant Rock – Superb view over two valleys loop from Moncale, a 7.2 miles (11.5 km) trail leading through varied terrain to the Elephant Rock landmark, often completed in about 3 hours 55 minutes.
  • Hiking around Moncale is defined by its mountainous terrain, dense forests, and cultivated terraces, often providing panoramic views. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easier walks to more challenging ascents.
  • The routes in Moncale are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 4300 reviews. More than 26000 hikers have used komoot to explore Moncale's varied terrain.

Last updated: September 5, 2026

4.6

(26)

109

hikers

#1.

View of Calenzana – Superb view over two valleys loop from Calenzana

6.23km

02:58

450m

450m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

4.7

(109)

3,849

hikers

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Hard
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Hard

5.0

(1)

13

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Moncale

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Mountain Hikes around Moncale

Tips from the Community

der Kuhn
September 24, 2024, Tolle Aussicht

Immediately after the first climb you will be treated to a fantastic panorama. Views all the way to the sea.

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der Kuhn
September 24, 2024, Elephant Rock

A great rock formation that can clearly be attributed to an elephant.

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Michael
June 4, 2024, Elephant Rock

A funny rock formation that resembles an elephant's head.

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Michael
June 4, 2024, Tolle Aussicht

Here you have a great view of the coast and the villages and towns in the area. A good place for a rest

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Melina
April 23, 2024, Calenzana

You are in the geographical center of Balagne. The opportunity to taste local specialties such as calinzanu, a soft cheese with a fairly strong taste.

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2

0

The tranquil Corsican town of Calenzana is particularly interesting for hikers as a starting point for several long-distance hiking trails. The most famous – and also the most demanding – is the GR20, but there are other alternatives. For example the “MARE e MONTI” (mountain and sea). Of course, you can find a suitable hiking collection on komoot, for example from Julien Harté, who recommends a north and a south route: https://www.komoot.de/collection/2014935/meer-und-berge-auf-korsika-mare-e-monti-nord https://www.komoot.de/collection/2049376/des-plages-et-des-cretes-mare-e-monti-sud

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3

0

Charred tree stumps can also be seen from the Bocca u Corsu, from which you can see Calenzana and whose crest is covered with thistles. The slope on either side burned down a few years ago; only a small strip of trees remains.

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Calenzana is a small nest right in front of the mountains, and - were it not for the GR20 (and one of the Monti a Mare trails) starting/ending here - not of any importance. There are two churches (one closed), a small supermarket, a street with cafes and restaurants, two parking lots (for hikers' cars). There is nothing more to say about the place if it weren't for this story: when the Corsicans rebelled against Genoese rule from 1730 onwards and asked their Austrian/German partners for help, the 500 (or 700?) German soldiers were defeated here, supposedly by the residents of Calenzana throwing beehives down on them and then killing them. The Campo Santo dei Tedeschi tower in front of the Church of St. Restitude is a reminder of this. (Corsica came to France a few years later...)

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available around Moncale?

There are over 190 hiking trails around Moncale, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The region is known for its diverse landscapes, from coastal views to rugged mountain terrain.

Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Moncale?

Yes, Moncale offers over 50 easy hiking trails. These routes often feature less elevation gain and shorter distances, making them ideal for beginners or families. The area's cultivated terraces and gentle forest paths provide pleasant walking experiences.

What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Moncale?

Hiking around Moncale features a varied terrain. You'll encounter mountainous paths, dense forests, and historically cultivated terraces with olive and fruit trees. Many routes offer panoramic views, especially from the hillside locations overlooking Montegrosso and Calenzana.

Can I find challenging hikes in the Moncale area?

Absolutely. Moncale and the surrounding Balagne region provide over 40 difficult hiking trails for experienced hikers. These routes often involve significant elevation changes and rugged sections, sometimes connecting to parts of famous long-distance trails like the GR20.

Are there any circular walks available around Moncale?

Yes, many trails around Moncale are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Calenzana – View of Calenzana loop from Calenzana is a moderate 4.1 km route offering scenic views.

What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I can discover on hikes?

Hikes around Moncale often lead to stunning viewpoints and natural landmarks. You can find highlights such as the Panoramic view of Calvi and the Revellata lighthouse or the View from Capu d'Occi. The region also features the Bonifatu Forest, known for its natural beauty.

Is it possible to hike a section of the GR20 near Moncale?

Yes, Moncale's proximity to Calenzana, a traditional starting point for the GR20, means you can access sections of this renowned trail. While the full GR20 is very challenging, some local routes, like the View of Calenzana – On the GR20 loop from Calenzana, offer a taste of its rugged mountain scenery.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Moncale?

The trails in Moncale are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 4300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the extensive panoramic views, the varied terrain that combines mountains and forests, and the well-maintained paths that make exploration enjoyable.

Are there opportunities for wild swimming or cooling off near the hiking trails?

Yes, the region around Moncale is described as being at the 'crossroads of streams flowing into the river,' with the Figarella mentioned as a perfect spot to cool off. Many trails will pass by or near these freshwater sources, offering opportunities for a refreshing dip during warmer months.

When is the best time of year to go hiking in Moncale?

The Balagne region, including Moncale, offers hiking opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally provide the most pleasant temperatures for hiking. While summer can be warm, the presence of streams and higher-altitude trails can offer cooler options. Winter hikes are also possible, though some higher routes may be affected by snow.

Is parking available at the trailheads in Moncale?

Parking is generally available near trailheads in and around Moncale and neighboring villages like Calenzana. Specific parking information can often be found in the details for individual routes on komoot, helping you plan your starting point.

Are there any trails that offer particularly good views of the coast or sea?

Given Corsica's unique geography where mountains rise from the sea, many trails in the Balagne region offer a blend of mountain and coastal scenery. While Moncale itself is inland, some viewpoints, like the View of Capu di a Veta and the Sea, provide stunning vistas towards the coastline.

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