The 6 Natural Swimming Pools in South Corsica
Among the island's most beautiful spots are several stunning sites set inland. Take the winding country roads and, at the end of your journey, you'll discover magnificent pools of crystal-clear water. These are the natural pools of South Corsica, streams well known to locals and tourists alike. The South Corsica region has no shortage of places to cool off once the heat arrives. We count six natural pools, well worth discovering on your next visit to Corsica.
The Natural Pools of Cavu
Just outside Porto-Vecchio (about 25 minutes away), the Cavu natural pools are a must for anyone who enjoys freshwater swimming. The water is certainly cooler, but far gentler than seawater.
Carved out by water over time, these pools offer a true haven of coolness. It's the perfect place to swim in clear water while admiring the surrounding mountains and vegetation. The Cavu valley also offers activities for every taste: swimming, a snack bar, an adventure park or hiking.
The Solenzara River
Heading from the small coastal town of Solenzara towards the Bavella pass, you'll spot the first pools with emerald-coloured water after five minutes' drive. You've now arrived in the magnificent Solenzara valley. A protected natural site, the Solenzara valley has plenty of quiet spots for swimming and lazing in the sun.
Park in one of the designated car parks, and you can easily reach the water. Watch your step over the boulders and brambles. Once you've found the perfect spot, all that's left is to enjoy this idyllic setting and dive in.
The Purcaraccia Waterfall
Continue for 20 minutes from Solenzara and you'll reach the Larone pass. You can park there and walk to the famous Purcaraccia basins, a walk of about 40 minutes. The hike is short but has some tricky sections, so proper footwear is required (avoid open shoes).
Once you arrive, marvel at the beauty of these basins carved by the torrent over millions of years. Long kept secret by the Corsicans, the site is now very busy in July and August. For the most enjoyable experience of this breathtaking landscape, visit in mid-season.
The Polischellu Waterfall
As you will have gathered, the Bavella region is home to many natural gems, and the Polischellu waterfall is one of them. A well-known spot among canyoning enthusiasts, especially for its natural water slide. Young and old alike never tire of sliding down the slippery rock face. In this area, there are three different waterfalls with pools of varying sizes where you can enjoy the cool water in the shade.
The Rizzanese river
Less busy, the small village of Zoza, right in the heart of southern Corsica, has many spots nearby where you can go swimming. The Rizzanese river rises near the Asinau refuge, very close to Bavella, and flows southwest towards Propriano. Along its entire length, you can find pleasant spots for a swim.
But it is probably around the village of Zoza and the ponte Vechju that you will find the best places to swim. Large, calm and deep stretches of water where you can swim peacefully or simply relax in the sun.
The Aïtone waterfalls
Finally, the Aïtone waterfalls near Evisa. Further away than the other natural pools mentioned in this article, the Aïtone pools are no less magnificent. Surrounded by thousands of Corsican black pines and far from the tourist crowds, this place has preserved its environment. That is why, as everywhere in Corsica, please take care not to disturb the animal or plant species found there.
If you wish to discover one of these fabulous swimming spots, you can stay at Les Toits de Santa Giulia, ideally located to explore the coastline and southern Corsica from the inland side.
