Seven red granite peaks at 1,600 metres, century-old laricio pines and clear natural pools. An hour from the villa.
The massif
The Bavella Needles form a line of red granite peaks rising to 1,855 metres at Punta Alta. You reach them by the Bavella pass (1,218 m), at the end of a mountain road winding up from Zonza — an hour from the villa, and a complete change of world: you leave the maquis and the beaches for laricio pine forest and mountain air.
The pass itself is a viewpoint: the Virgin of Bavella, a few inns serving Alta Rocca charcuterie and cheese, and the start of several trails. The GR20 passes through here, which gives the place its particular mountain-refuge feel.
The natural pools
At the foot of the massif, the mountain streams have carved clear-water pools into the granite — the area's other great draw, and a welcome alternative to the beaches at the height of August.
The pools of the Cavu are the easiest outing from the villa: half a day, with no need to drive up to the pass.
On your doorstep
From family path to GR20
Purcaraccia, Vacca, Pulischellu
Cavu and Solenzara pools
The pass at sunrise
Alta Rocca charcuterie and cheeses
Zonza, Levie, Sainte-Lucie-de-Tallano
The road to the pass is narrow and winding: allow an hour from the villa, and more in August. Set off early, as parking at the pass is limited.
In the mountains, take water, closed shoes and a windproof: it can be 15 °C cooler than by the sea, and heat storms are common in the late afternoon in summer. For canyoning, always go with a qualified guide: flash floods are sudden and several accidents happen at these sites every summer.
Frequently asked questions
Keep exploring
The villa's own village, its shops and its Ovu Santu beach.
The bay, the white sand and the seafront restaurants.
The citadel, the salt pans, Palombaggia and Santa Giulia.
Boats, diving, canyoning, markets and tastings.
Airports, ferries, car hire and routes.
Book direct
Book direct with the owners: no commission, a single point of contact and a reply within 24 hours.
