Difficulty: easy
Type: loop hike
Duration: 1 h and 45 min
Difference in height: 199 m
Length: 3 km

Presentation
This path starts from the hamlet of Castellu, which belongs to the municipality of Brando. This walk will allow you to discover the natural and architectural heritage of the Cap Corse region, as well as various places of interest such as the medieval castle of U Castellu, the terraced gardens of Muru Altu, the ruined village of Grotta and the ruined village of Serboghju, the hamlet of Castellu and the hamlet of Silgaggia – the birthplace of the family of Paul Valery, member of the Académie Française from 1925 to 1945.
Castellu houses the chapel of Santa Maria di e Nevi (10th century), whose interior contains the oldest frescoes in Corsica, dating back to the 14th century.
This excursion is perfect for everyone, also for families or groups with children.

Road access
The road-trip from Bastia to Brando takes 21 minutes for 16.3 kilometres.
From Bastia you must take the road D 80 and drive for about fifteen minutes. Before reaching the hamlet of Erbalunga, take the D 54 road for three kilometres, towards Mausoleo. Keep driving until you reach the hamlet of Castellu where you can park your car.

Itinerary
The path is well-marked and well-maintained, you will have no problem to orientate yourself.
After parking your car you must walk towards the ruins of Castellu – a castle now in ruins, which was built in the 12th century by the Gentile family. Keep walking along the rising path which takes you through two abandoned hamlets. Take a look at the beautiful terraced gardens of Muru Altu.
At a certain point the path is flanked by several holm oaks: you are close to Silgaggia. Do not hesitate to catch your breath once you have reached the hamlet: enjoy the charm of Silgaggia and take a look at the little chapel of the hamlet.
To return to the starting point, head towards the end of the road. Take the path which starts at the end of the road and which offers a superb view of the sea. Keep walking until you return to your car.