For anyone looking to combine hiking, nature watching and Corsican cultural heritage in Cuttoli-Corticchiato, there are a variety of themes to consider when planning a trip. The route to the summit of Monti d’Ignascu crosses the municipality, passing through chestnut trees and endemic flowers. From the viewpoint, you can see across the Gulf of Ajaccio; from the summit, you can also see the Ajaccio basin and the Prunelli and Gravona valleys. Another summit trail leads to Punta di l’Alcudina, while a short circular route and historic buildings offer other aspects to explore.
Hiking among summits and plants
The route to Punta di l’Alcudina starts in Pedi Muredda, passes Punta San Petru and reaches the 1,312-metre summit. In good weather, the panorama also includes the Sanguinaires Islands. Paeonia corsica, a botanical species endemic to Corsica, grows on a slope of Monte d’Ignascu. It can be admired during its flowering period in May; the timing may vary depending on conditions. Several chestnut trees in Cuttoli-Corticchiato are exceptionally large.
The two summit trails offer different highlights: Monti d’Ignascu features chestnut trees, endemic flowers and views of the gulf and valleys; Punta di l’Alcudina is defined by its 1,312-metre summit and the panorama in good weather. Those wishing to focus on nature can choose between seasonal plant watching and the summit views described here.
A Stretta di i furnacci: a short circular route and cultural heritage
A Stretta di i furnacci consists of six kilns for roof tiles and bricks, as well as a Genoese bridge that probably dates from the 17th century. The short circular route is 1.2 kilometres long and takes about 45 minutes; you can start in Campianu or below Pedi Muredda. The approximate duration helps you gauge how much time to allow, and there are two stated starting points to choose from.
For those planning around a time limit, this circular route is clearly defined by its approximate duration. The summit routes offer different points of reference: Punta di l’Alcudina through its elevation and intermediate point, and Monti d’Ignascu through its vegetation and views. This makes it possible to choose between the routes according to your preferred focus, without conflating their distinct destinations into a single trail.
Mill paths and historic traces
The “A Stretta di i Mulini” Heritage Trail offers a different focus. Its first section was once a mule track leading to watermills on the Funtanaccia stream. The route consists entirely of unpaved paths and is suitable for mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking. This trail therefore brings both the former mill route and a range of activities into focus.
San Martinu Church and Corsican toponymy
San Martinu Church was rebuilt in the 19th century. Inside are a 14th-century marble holy water font and a painting of the Virgin Mary. Its history and furnishings therefore span different centuries.
Since 2012, the municipality of Cuttoli-Corticchiato has organized “I Scontri di a tupunimia,” the Corsican Toponymy Days, every year. If you would like to include the event in your travel plans, check the current dates before setting off.
Discover more destinations: Santa-Maria-Figaniella, Calcatoggio, Zévaco, Guitera-les-Bains, Sainte-Lucie-de-Tallano, Appietto, Sartène, Ota.
For the broader travel guide: Corse-Du-Sud.
