Line © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), checked by Global Adventurer.
The walk
From the car park on the road west of Piana, a path runs out across the maquis along the ridge of Capu Rossu, a headland of red granite. It drops to a saddle, then climbs steeply over rock and loose stones to the Genoese tower of Turghju, about 330 m above the sea, with the cliffs falling away on three sides and the Gulf of Porto spread below. Return the same way, with the climb back up to the road at the end.
It is 8.9 km there and back with 476 m of ascent; allow about 3½ hours. The grade is Hard: a rough, stony path, steep and loose on the final climb to the tower.
There is almost no shade and no water, so start early in summer, carry plenty to drink and wear a hat. The last climb is steep, and the cliff edges near the tower are unguarded. The headland is on the edge of the Gulf of Porto World Heritage Site.
The free car park is beside the D824 road from Piana towards the Capu Rossu, about 6 km from the village.
Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.
Good to know
- Capu Rossu is a headland of red granite west of Piana, on the edge of the Gulf of Porto World Heritage Site
- The Genoese tower of Turghju stands on its top, more than 300 m above the sea
- There is almost no shade: start early in summer and carry water
Getting there
Start: Capo Rosso car park. 42.23524, 8.58355
Places to stay nearby
Rooms in and around Ucciani: Booking.com → Expedia →
Affiliate links: if you book, Global Adventurer earns a small commission at no cost to you.
Paths change, and the weather decides the day. The line and figures come from OpenStreetMap and our own checks; take a map, check the forecast, and turn back if it isn't right.