Explore the rugged natural wonder of Corsica’s UNESCO-protected Scandola Nature Reserve on this captivating boat tour from the charming town of Porto. Glide silently along the dramatic coastline aboard a hybrid vessel, spotting endemic wildlife like sea eagles and peregrine falcons soaring overhead. Venture to the remote village of Girolata, accessible only by sea, and wander its picturesque alleyways. With knowledgeable commentary, flexible booking options, and the chance to see the stunning Calanche de Piana rock formations, this comprehensive tour promises an immersive experience of Corsica’s breathtaking beauty. Where will this adventure take you?
Key Points
- The Scandola & Girolata Tour by Boat departs from the port of Porto and explores the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve.
- The tour includes a guided boat ride on a silent hybrid boat to observe the dramatic coastline and diverse marine life.
- Visitors can spot endemic wildlife like sea eagles and peregrine falcons during the 3-4.5 hour boat tour.
- The tour includes a 30-minute stop in the remote coastal village of Girolata, accessible only by sea.
- The tour offers the option to visit the Calanche de Piana rock formations and provides an informative leaflet in multiple languages.
Activity Overview
This 3-4.5 hour boat tour offers a chance to explore the stunning Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dramatic coastline and diverse marine life.
Guests will board a silent hybrid boat to silently glide along the rugged cliffs and spot endemic wildlife like sea eagles and peregrine falcons.
The tour also includes a stop at the remote coastal village of Girolata, which can only be accessed by sea. Visitors will have 30 minutes to wander the charming alleyways and perhaps even enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters off Girolata’s shores.
An optional tour of the famous Calanche de Piana rock formations can also be added to the itinerary.
Highlights
Guests can explore the stunning Scandola Nature Reserve by silent hybrid boat, gliding silently along the rugged cliffs and spotting endemic wildlife like sea eagles and peregrine falcons.
They’ll also visit the remote coastal village of Girolata, which can only be accessed by sea, and have 30 minutes to wander the charming alleyways and perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters off Girolata’s shores.
Visitors can even opt to tour the famous Calanche de Piana rock formations as part of this unforgettable experience.
This boat tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this remarkable region.
Inclusions
The guided boat tour includes a stop of up to 30 minutes in the charming village of Girolata, allowing visitors to wander its quaint alleyways and perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters off its shores.
An informative leaflet in French, English, and Italian provides additional details about the tour and the natural and cultural highlights along the way.
The tour’s inclusions are:
- A guided boat tour to explore the Scandola Nature Reserve
- A 30-minute stop in the remote coastal village of Girolata
- An informative leaflet in three languages
- The opportunity to spot endemic wildlife like sea eagles and peregrine falcons
This comprehensive package ensures a truly immersive and informative experience for visitors to discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this stunning region.
Location and Meeting Point
The boat tour departs from the port of Porto, with the meeting point varying depending on the specific tour option booked.
Travelers will be provided with clear directions to the designated departure location upon completing their reservation. This flexibility ensures a smooth and convenient start to the adventure.
Once gathered at the meeting point, guests will embark on a silent hybrid boat for a remarkable journey through the Scandola Nature Reserve.
The boat’s eco-friendly propulsion system allows for a peaceful and immersive exploration of this stunning natural wonder, where endemic wildlife can be spotted in its unspoiled habitat.
With the meeting logistics taken care of, guests can focus on the unforgettable sights and experiences that await them.
Booking and Cancellation
Travelers can reserve their spots on the Scandola & Girolata boat tour with a convenient ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, allowing them to secure their places with ease.
Alternatively, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility should plans change. This booking process ensures a hassle-free experience, so guests can focus on anticipating the wonders that await them during the tour.
The booking process for this tour offers several benefits:
- Flexible payment options with ‘reserve now, pay later’
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
- Secure your spot with ease, leaving more time to get excited
- Convenient and streamlined booking, ensuring a stress-free experience
Exploring Scandola Nature Reserve
Aboard a silent hybrid boat, guests embark on an immersive exploration of the Scandola Nature Reserve, a pristine coastal landscape teeming with endemic wildlife and breathtaking geological formations.
As they glide through the turquoise waters, they’ll spot majestic sea eagles soaring overhead and agile peregrine falcons darting through the air.
The rugged cliffs and hidden coves of the reserve offer a glimpse into the region’s untamed natural beauty, with opportunities to witness the diverse marine life that thrives in this protected ecosystem.
The guide’s commentary brings the experience to life, sharing insights into the area’s rich history and the importance of preserving this natural wonder for generations to come.
Discovering Girolata Village
Nestled along the rugged Corsican coastline, the remote village of Girolata beckons visitors to step into a bygone era, accessible only by boat.
This secluded gem offers a glimpse into traditional Mediterranean life, untouched by modern development. Upon arrival, one is greeted by charming stone houses, quaint cafes, and a tranquil harbor.
Highlights of the village include:
- Exploring the picturesque lanes and alleyways, where time seems to stand still.
- Indulging in fresh seafood at the local restaurants, savoring the flavors of the sea.
- Wandering through the small chapel, admiring the simple, yet beautiful architecture.
- Witnessing the daily routine of the few remaining residents, who maintain the village’s timeless character.
Girolata’s isolation is both its allure and its preservation, allowing visitors to enjoy a truly authentic Corsican experience.
Optional Tour of Calanche De Piana
For those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of the Corsican coastline, an optional tour of the Calanche de Piana rock formations provides a captivating addition to the Scandola and Girolata boat excursion.
These dramatic, rust-colored cliffs sculpted by wind and water rise majestically from the azure Mediterranean, beckoning visitors to witness their breathtaking natural beauty.
The tour includes a leisurely cruise along the towering formations, allowing guests to marvel at the intricate patterns and shapes carved into the rock over millennia.
With the option to disembark and explore the area on foot, travelers can enjoy the rugged, otherworldly landscape that has inspired artists and photographers for generations.
Recap
This comprehensive boat tour offers an immersive glimpse into the raw, rugged beauty of Corsica’s UNESCO-protected Scandola Nature Reserve.
Glide quietly along the coastline, spotting endemic wildlife, before exploring the charming, remote village of Girolata.
With flexible booking options and the chance to see the stunning Calanche de Piana rock formations, this tour provides an unforgettable experience of Corsica’s natural wonders.
