Propriano-Olmeto-Filitosa
➰ Loop circuit
🕙 Estimated time: 5h35 min (43.6km).
The route does not take into account stopovers.
Leaving Propriano, take the RT40 towards Olmeto, 8km after Olmeto follow the D302 to Sollacaro, then the D57 to Filitosa.
Return to Propriano along theOlmeto-Plage coastline by taking the D157.
Olmeto, a balcony overlooking the Gulf of Valinco
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Cycling - Ortolo Valley
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Filitosa Menhirs in the heart of nature
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Your Propriano–Filitosa route will first take you through the charming village of Olmeto. On this section of the road, which is all uphill, do stop off at the Valinco car park,
(about 1 km after a hairpin bend, on the right). You’re bound to be captivated by the panoramic view of the mountains, the town of Propriano and the blue waters of the Valinco Gulf. Get back on your bike and set off to explore Olmeto’s narrow streets and vaulted passageways. Take a break and explore its narrow streets and vaulted passageways. The house where Colomba, the heroine of Prosper Mérimée, came to spend her final days, stands high above, directly opposite the town hall.
The Church of Santa Maria is also well worth a visit, with its remarkable 19th-century organ. Refresh yourself at the fountain next to the old wash house. Once past Olmeto, 8 km further on, you’ll reach the Celaccia Pass. The little D302 will give you a chance to catch your breath as it takes you towards the village of Sollacaro. Don’t miss its old olive press. You’ll then take the D57 through oak and olive groves, enjoying their shade, before arriving in Filitosa.
A must-see: the archaeological site of Filitosa. It was inhabited by the earliest Corsicans from the Neolithic period right through to antiquity.
Set amidst unspoilt natural surroundings, 8,000 years of history and mystery unfold before you. You’ll then return to Propriano via the northern shore of the Gulf of Valinco: ‘Olmeto-Plage’. A superb view of the gulf, charming coves and the majestic presence of two ‘Sentinels’ – the towers of Micalona and Calanca – will accompany you throughout this final stretch of the journey.
