Adventurous stream route with stretches of swimming
The Fiumicelli Valley is an ideal introduction to anyone interested in learning canyoning. Typically, the Bavella Valley offers both a gentle landscape, as well as a dramatic one, in the gorge at the valley’s end. Pleasant stretches of wading through the stream are combined with short swims through crystal-clear rock pools; time and again, cascades require a short hop into the water. An occasional sandbank is a welcome invitation to a bathing break. Naturally, the route is also popular with regular bathers who only wish to wander a short way into the valley and who usually prefer to start at the Fiumicelli bridge.
Location: Solenzara, a little seaside resort on the east coast.
Starting point: Rocchiu Pinzutu, 337m, a large, tumbledown house with the inscription »Corsica Canyon« on the D 268 Solenzara – Bavella pass, car park (15km from Solenzara or 2km from the Bocca di Larone).
Destination: Pont de Fiumicelli, 158m, at Km 12 on the D 268 (3km/45 mins. along the road to return to the starting point; alternatively, you can hitchhike or park a second car here before the walk).
Height difference: 200m in descent.
Grade: easy canyoning route with a few jumps and swims, also suited to families with children, nevertheless, some stamina and climbing skills are required. Equipment needed consists of swimwear and water sandals, securely strapped (do not go barefoot!). Provisions and valuables should be packed in water-tight containers. Caution: attempt this route only during dry and stable weather – if a storm should strike, the stream can become a raging torrent!
Refreshment and accommodation: in Solenzara restaurants, hotels and campsites.
Tip: if you only want to get a sample of the route, start at the Fiumicelli bridge and walk upstream.
Map: IGN 4253 ET (1:25.000).