Lake Mello and Lake Campiello

ZOOM ++

Despite its popularity, the walk up to lakes Mello and Campiello remains one of those itineraries which one must simply do. If you leave early in the morning you’ll manage to escape the consistent flow of hikers and, more importantly, you’ll manage to climb up to Lake Mello in the cool shade. From here the itinerary steepens and in just 45 minutes leads to the deepest lake in Corsica: steep rock walls plunge 42m deep into the icy waters of Lake Campiello. Absolutely not to be missed!

GETTING THERE

Reach Corte via the N193.

ACCESS

From Corte take the D623 up Val Restonica to the Berges du Grottelle. Park and pay here.

ROUTE

From the car park (1370m) follow the obvious path past the hut on the righthandside of the river (yellow markers) to reach Bergeries de Mello (typical local products for sale here). Shortly after the hut the path divides into two, and both options lead to the lake. The path on the right is shorter, slightly more demanding (fixed cable) and crowded, the path on the left is longer and in the shade. No hard guesses which one we recommend! Thanks to its relatively easy access Lake Mello is probably the most popular lake in Corsica, but its generous grassy shores are big enough for everyone!

The path now continues on the right up a steep scree gully, to then traverse leftwards across beautiful granite slabs. Allow 45 minutes to reach Lake Campiello – frozen solid for 8 months of the year but now a very refreshing break before starting the hot descent back down into the valley.

Return via the ascent path.

GEAR

Normal hiking equipment.

MAPS/BIBLIOGRAPHY

42451 OT Monte d'oro, Monte Rotondo 1:25000