Just a 15-minute drive south of Bastia, the Étang de Biguglia invites you to discover Corsica’s largest wetland. This exceptional nature reserve is home to remarkable biodiversity, with more than 250 species of birds. We particularly appreciated the tranquility of the landscaped paths winding along the banks, offering breathtaking panoramas of this Mediterranean lagoon.
In this article, you’ll find some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a wonderful time!
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Why visit the Étang de Biguglia?
Is the Étang de Biguglia worth it? Our opinion:
Yes, the Étang de Biguglia is well worth a visit. With its 1,450 hectares, this protected natural site is Corsica’s largest wetland, offering an exceptional ornithological spectacle. The trails provide excellent conditions for observing waterfowl.
Why is the Étang de Biguglia famous?
The Etang de Biguglia owes its renown to its status as the largest lagoon in Corsica. Recognized in 1991 as a site of international importance for waterfowl, it has been classified as a “Natura 2000” site and a Nature Reserve since 1994. The site is home to more than 250 different bird species and 450 plant species, making it one of the Mediterranean’s most important ZNIEFFs (Zone Naturelle d’Intérêt Écologique Faunistique et Floral).
History in brief
Here are the key dates in the history of the Étang de Biguglia:
- More than 6,000 years ago: formation of the lagoon by the reworking of the Golo alluvium.
- Around 100 BC: Marius founds a Roman colony of legion veterans south of the pond. This vast expanse of water provided a large harbor, well sheltered from easterly winds.
- After the fall of the Roman Empire: the town of Mariana disappeared and the wetlands were abandoned because of the malaria carried by Anopheles mosquitoes.
- 16th century: The Genoese attempted to develop the wetlands, turning the pond into a trading post where fish farming took on major importance.
- 1558: Battle of Ischia Nuova at the fortress on Fishermen’s Island, in the northern part of the lake, between the Genoese and the French.
- Subsequent centuries: Numerous reclamation works on the pond (draining, digging of drainage channels).
- 1943-1944: The Americans introduce an anti-vectorial solution to eradicate malaria.
- 1991: Recognition of the site as an area of international importance for waterfowl.
- 1994: Official classification as a Nature Reserve, ensuring greater protection for this unique ecosystem.
WHERE TO STAY IN Bastia
To enjoy the charm of this colourful, vibrant city, it’s best to spend one or more nights here! Our suggestions:
Option 1: in the lower center
We recommend..:
- Hôtel des Gouverneurs, in the citadel – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Monsieur Miot and its beautiful decor – see prices, photos and availability
Option 2: up-center
We recommend..:
- Hotel Le Bastia and its magnificent views of the city and the sea – see prices, photos and availability
Option 3: in the surrounding area
We recommend..:
- Hotel Alivi, north, with beach access – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Pineto in the south, along the sandy beach – see prices, photos and availability
See our list of the 10 best hotels in Bastia, with our reviews
Access and map: Étang de Biguglia, Furiani
Where is Étang de Biguglia?
- In the commune of Furiani,
- Driving time from Bastia: 15min
How to get there?
The most practical way to reach the Étang de Biguglia is by car. From Bastia, head south along the RN193, then turn off towards Furiani.
The pond is less than 20 minutes away.
The site is well signposted with “Réserve Naturelle de Biguglia”. You can also take a bus from the Bastiese urban line (C10) which serves Furiani, but this will take you 3 hours.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Corsica
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Parking
Free parking is available near the entrance to the “Tombulu Biancu” trail. There are plenty of places available, even in high season.
Useful tips: duration, schedules, eating…
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn are the ideal times to observe the pond’s ornithological diversity. In summer, prefer cooler hours to avoid the heat, as the trail offers little shade.
We came in winter and found that the site is difficult to use out of season. We advise you to enjoy the views of the pond from your car, or by bike along the main road.
Length of visit and main difficulties
Allow around 2 hours to cover the entire “Tombulu Biancu” trail, excluding observation breaks. If you’d like to visit the Fortin Ecomuseum and extend your experience at Marana beach, allow a full half-day.
The 3km route is relatively flat and accessible, although some sections can be muddy after rain. Bring walking shoes and binoculars for birdwatching.
Advice on how to visit
We recommend that you start your visit at the Ecomusée du Fortin to understand the history and ecosystem of the pond. Then take the “Tombulu Biancu” path along the west bank, following the signs. Educational panels line the route, providing information on the local flora and fauna. Take a close look at the waterholes and reedbeds where birds congregate. End your visit with a relaxing break on Marana beach, at the southern end of the lido.
USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A
DREAM TRIP TO Corsica
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Visiting with children
The Étang de Biguglia will delight children curious about nature. Bring water, snacks and sunscreen, as the course offers few shaded areas.
Schedules and rates
Access to the Étang de Biguglia Nature Reserve is free all year round.
For more information, visit the official website here.
Guided tours
Contact the Ecomusée du Fortin for the calendar of nature outings and to reserve your place. Find out more here.
Catering
No catering facilities are available directly on the reserve site.
On the beach at Marana, we spotted the Restaurant Bar de la plage and its beautiful view. Furiani offers a few options, but Bastia is only a 15-minute drive away and remains the best place to eat. Find out more in our gourmet article!
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A unique lagoon ecosystem
Étang de Biguglia is distinguished by its position at the interface between the marine and continental environments. This shallow lagoon is home to a mixture of salt water entering through the grau and freshwater from the watershed. On the 1790-hectare Etang de Biguglia, this alchemy creates a fascinating lagoon landscape, bordered by dense reedbeds and carpets of saltwort. As you stroll along the banks, you’ll feel the delicate balance that allows over 450 plant species to flourish, offering a wild and soothing backdrop.
The Tombulu Biancu trail
The “Tombulu Biancu” hiking trail is the best way to explore the reserve. We took this 3km trail that winds along the western shore of the pond, offering a variety of views over the lagoon. The path is well-marked and maintained, making for pleasant progress even for occasional walkers. You’ll make your way between reedbeds and open water, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching. The discreet fittings blend harmoniously into the natural landscape, preserving the authenticity of the site. Plan regular breaks at the observatories, as patience is often rewarded with spectacular sightings of rare birds.
Marana beach
Extend your discovery of the pond with a relaxing break on Marana beach, located at the southern end of the lido. We particularly enjoyed the strip of fine sand that separates the lagoon from the Mediterranean Sea, offering a striking contrast between the two aquatic environments. This beach, protected from mass tourism, retains its authentic, wild character. You’ll enjoy a peaceful setting for swimming, sunbathing or simply contemplating the sea horizon. The barrier beach is also a remarkable natural environment, with characteristic dune vegetation that must be respected. The atmosphere is particularly pleasant at the end of the day, when the golden light of sunset illuminates the landscape.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best time of year for birdwatching?
Spring and autumn offer the best observation conditions, with a wide variety of species present during migrations. Mornings are the best time of day to enjoy maximum avifauna activity.
Can we swim in the pond?
No, swimming is prohibited in the Etang de Biguglia, which is a protected nature reserve. On the other hand, you can enjoy the Marana beach on the other side of the barrier beach, where sea bathing is permitted and pleasant. This beach is the perfect place to cool off after a walk around the reserve.
Is observation equipment required?
We strongly recommend that you bring binoculars for the best birdwatching experience. A camera with a telephoto lens will also help you capture beautiful memories. Remember to bring water, a hat and sunscreen, as the trail offers little shade.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Corsica
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Where to stay
