Capu Rossu (Cape Rosso) Summit
The Capu Rossu headland thrusts into the Gulf of Porto like a red-granite fist, and the two-hour hike to its Genoese watchtower rewards you with arguably the finest panorama on the island: cliffs dropping 300 metres to cobalt water, with the Calanche rock formations glowing to the north. Sunset here borders on the religious.
The Hike Up
The trail begins at the Plage de Bussaglia car park and climbs steadily through maquis — the aromatic scrubland of cistus, rosemary and immortelle that perfumes the whole west coast. The path is well-cairned but rocky underfoot; proper shoes are essential.
After about 90 minutes you reach the Torre di Turghio, a 16th-century Genoese watchtower in near-perfect condition, perched at 331 metres. The views open suddenly and completely — Porto's bay curves south, the Scandola nature reserve stretches north, and on clear days you can see as far as the mountains above Calvi.
The red porphyry rock underfoot turns almost luminous at golden hour, giving the cape its name and making it one of the most photographed natural spots in Corsica.
Timing & Logistics
The round trip takes 3.5–4 hours at a relaxed pace; carry at least 1.5 litres of water per person as there is no shade or water source on the trail. The path can be slippery after rain.
For the sunset experience, start the ascent about three hours before sundown and bring a head torch for the descent. The car park at Bussaglia is free and rarely full outside July–August peak weeks.
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