Not so deserted after all!

Agriates: corsica’s secret, wild side—at the end of the customs officers’ trail…

A wild land bordering the Gulf of Saint-Florent, the coastal path is a true corner of paradise where ridges, valleys and summits—turned towards the sea and Cap Corse—stop your gaze in its tracks… Time seems suspended in this part of Haute-Corse where nature reigns supreme. An arid landscape of fragrant maquis and granite sculpted by sea winds softens as you approach the shoreline, thanks to cream-coloured sandy beaches and tender-green wetlands. Welcome to the Agriates Desert.

A hike through an exceptional territory.

Saint-Florent, a little gem of Haute-Corse, is the starting point for an unforgettable adventure along the famous customs officers’ trail. Accessible all year round, this 35 km coastal path follows the entire Agriates shoreline, from Plage de la Roya to Ostriconi, passing some of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches. The route is flat and approachable: it can be completed over three days of walking, but you can also explore selected sections as day hikes.

An experience between sea and maquis.

Along the way, swims in wild coves, spectacular views over the Mediterranean, and the discovery of local flora (olive trees, immortelle, myrtle and strawberry trees) make every step unforgettable. Whether on foot or by boat, the customs trail promises a journey out of time, between lunar landscapes and turquoise waters.

Good to know: As the trail is not always shaded, consider setting off early, coming well prepared (water, hat, sunscreen), and taking breaks in the shade of the rocks.

Highlights along the route.

The mortella tower: An imposing sentinel, the Genoese tower of Mortella, built between 1553 and 1555, has withstood centuries and battles. Damaged by the British in 1794, it still stands—cut in two, yet majestic.

Corsica’s most beautiful secluded beaches—lotu, saleccia, ghignu and malfalcu—can be reached only on foot, by boat or by 4×4. Their white sand and translucent waters evoke exotic lagoons. A fun fact: in 1961, Saleccia beach was a filming location for the movie “The Longest Day”.

From April to September, shuttles or taxi boats connect Saint-Florent to Lotu or Saleccia beaches in 20 minutes. The rough tracks require an appropriate vehicle. Several companies offer 4×4 excursions to Saleccia, Ghignu and Malfalcu.

Information and practical tips…

Duration & distances (one way only):
Saint-Florent → Lotu beach : 4h45.
Lotu → Saleccia : 1h.
Saleccia → Ghignu : 2h45.
Ghignu → Ostriconi : 6h30.

What to bring:
water (no refill points except at Saleccia)
food for a picnic
walking shoes
swimsuit and towel
hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
fully charged phone
map/compass (if you are setting off for several days).

How to reach the starting point:
Meet at Anse de Fornali: from Plage de la Roya, turn left at the end of the beach, then right.
Continue straight for 2 km to the free car park. The trail begins 100 m further down.

When is the best time to hike?
April, September and October: mild weather and a quieter trail.
In summer, an early start is recommended. In strong winds, the trail may be closed (fire risk). Out of season, accommodation is closed.