Nestled near the historic town of Ajaccio, Corsica’s dramatic natural beauty unfolds along the coastline. Visitors can embark on a captivating cruise to the Piana Scandola Cliffs and the remote village of Girolata. This comfortable boat tour promises a comprehensive experience, allowing travelers to explore the Scandola Nature Reserve, marvel at the ochre-hued Piana Cliffs, and discover the charming coastal settlement accessible only by boat or on foot. With a range of amenities and inclusions, this excursion offers a memorable glimpse into Corsica’s stunning landscapes. What awaits those who set sail on this journey?
Key Points
- A 7-hour boat tour departing from Tiuccia, near Ajaccio, exploring the Scandola Nature Reserve and the iconic cliffs of Piana.
- The comfortable and spacious boat, accommodating up to 12 participants, provides amenities such as a WC, underwater camera, and sunbathing area.
- Highlights include a stopover at the remote coastal village of Girolata and guided commentary on the reserve’s rare wildlife and dramatic geological formations.
- The tour offers exclusive access to the Scandola Nature Reserve and Piana cliffs, showcasing the area’s untamed natural beauty and rugged coastline.
- Restrictions include non-accessibility for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, and wheelchair users, as food and drinks are not included.
Tour Description
The boat tour departs from Tiuccia, near Ajaccio, and explores the stunning Scandola Nature Reserve.
Along the way, you’ll marvel at the magnificent cliffs of Piana, including captivating caves and geological faults.
The tour also includes a visit to the coastal village of Girolata, where you’ll have the chance to swim in the crystal clear waters.
The comfortable and spacious boat is equipped with amenities like a WC, underwater camera, and stereo, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
The small group size, limited to just 12 participants, provides an intimate and personalized tour.
Boat and Amenities
A comfortable and spacious boat with a WC, underwater camera, sunbathing area, and stereo transports guests on the tour.
The boat can accommodate a small group of up to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
With its well-equipped amenities, the vessel provides a pleasant and enjoyable journey along the stunning Piana cliffs and Scandola Nature Reserve.
Guests can capture the breathtaking scenery with the provided underwater video camera and relax in the sunbathing area as they sail towards the coastal village of Girolata.
The boat’s features and limited group size contribute to a comfortable and memorable cruise through this remarkable natural landscape.
Inclusions
Captain/guide commentary in French, entry to Scandola Nature Reserve and Piana cliffs, stopover at Girolata village, and snorkel mask and underwater video camera are all included in the tour.
The guided boat ride from Tiuccia to the Scandola Nature Reserve and Piana cliffs provides a wealth of information and immersive exploration. Guests can marvel at the dramatic coastline while the captain shares commentary in French.
The tour also includes a visit to the charming coastal village of Girolata. Snorkel gear and an underwater camera allow visitors to fully experience the crystal clear waters.
With these inclusions, the cruise offers a comprehensive and engaging way to discover the natural beauty of this stunning region.
Duration and Meeting Point
Lasting 7 hours, the tour departs from the small beach of Tiuccia, in front of the Mare Bellu ticket office.
This allows travelers to explore the stunning Scandola Nature Reserve and the iconic Piana cliffs at their own pace.
The tour includes:
- Captivating commentary from the knowledgeable captain/guide, available in French
- Exclusive access to the Scandola Nature Reserve and Piana cliffs
- A stopover in the charming coastal village of Girolata
- Access to snorkel masks and an underwater video camera to capture the crystal-clear waters
With a small group size limited to 12 participants, this cruise offers an intimate and immersive experience amidst the region’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Exclusions and Restrictions
While the cruise offers a wealth of amenities and experiences, certain exclusions and restrictions apply. Food and drinks are not included in the tour price. Plus, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.
| Included | Excluded | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Captain/guide commentary in French | Food and drinks | Pregnant women |
| Entry to Scandola Nature Reserve and Piana cliffs | – | People with mobility impairments |
| Stopover at Girolata village | – | Wheelchair users |
| Snorkel mask and underwater video camera | – | – |
| – | – | – |
Exploring Scandola Nature Reserve
From the small beach of Tiuccia, travelers embark on a captivating journey to explore the stunning Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic cliffs and untamed natural beauty.
Along the way, they marvel at the rugged, ochre-colored cliffs of Piana, with their intricate network of caves and faults.
The cruise offers several highlights:
- Cruising past the imposing granite formations that jut out of the crystal-clear waters
- Spotting rare wildlife, including the endangered Corsican sea shag and other seabirds
- Discovering hidden coves and secluded beaches perfect for swimming
- Disembarking at the remote coastal village of Girolata, accessible only by boat or on foot.
Marveling at Piana Cliffs
As the boat glides along the coastline, the towering ochre-hued cliffs of Piana come into view, their jagged formations and intricate faults captivating passengers. The cliffs, sculpted by the relentless forces of wind and water, rise up dramatically from the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Passengers can’t help but gaze in awe at the natural wonder before them.
| Emotions Evoked | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awe | Amazement | Wonder | Reverence | Appreciation |
| Serenity | Tranquility | Peacefulness | Calm | Relaxation |
| Curiosity | Intrigue | Fascination | Exploration | Discovery |
| Humility | Insignificance | Perspective | Smallness | Vastness |
| Connection | Appreciation | Gratitude | Inspiration | Preservation |
Visiting Girolata Village
The tour then takes passengers to the coastal village of Girolata, a serene and picturesque settlement nestled along the rugged shoreline. Accessible only by boat or on foot, Girolata offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this remote corner of Corsica.
Highlights of the visit include:
- Wandering the narrow, car-free streets lined with colorful houses and local shops
- Admiring the impressive Genoese watchtower dating back to the 16th century
- Enjoying a stroll along the small harbor and taking in views of the surrounding cliffs
- Visiting the quaint village church, a testament to the area’s rich religious history
With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural setting, Girolata provides a peaceful respite during the tour of the Scandola Nature Reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no specific age restrictions for this tour. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users due to the nature of the boat and cruise activities.
Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Yes, participants can bring their own snorkeling equipment for the tour. However, masks and an underwater video camera are provided as part of the inclusions. Bringing personal snorkeling gear is optional.
Are There Any Discounts Available for the Tour?
The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts, but they do provide snorkeling equipment for all participants. Prices are fixed, but the small group size and included activities make this a valuable experience.
Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour’s duration is fixed at 7 hours and can’t be extended. However, customers can book additional excursions or explore the region independently before or after the tour to extend their experience.
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour has a set itinerary, but the operator may be able to customize certain aspects like duration or activities upon request. Customers should inquire about any customization options when booking the tour.
Recap
This captivating cruise offers a comprehensive and unforgettable experience of Corsica’s dramatic natural beauty.
Departing from Tiuccia, visitors can explore the Scandola Nature Reserve, marvel at the towering Piana Cliffs, and visit the remote coastal village of Girolata, all aboard a comfortable and spacious boat.
This tour provides an immersive glimpse into the stunning landscapes that make Corsica a beloved destination.
