Top 9 Lakes around Soccia

Lac de Creno is distinctive as the only mountain lake in Corsica surrounded by a forest of Laricio pines, a symbol of the island. Its waters are often adorned with colorful water lilies, which begin to bloom in June, creating a picturesque scene. It's also known for its diverse wildlife and is considered family-friendly. You can find more details about this highlight here: Lac de Creno.

Yes, Lac de Creno is particularly noted as a family-friendly destination. The hike from Soccia is relatively easy, typically taking around two hours round trip with a 300-meter elevation gain, making it suitable for families. For a moderate hike around this lake, consider the route Around Lake Creno (Crena) – Corsica Regional Natural Park.

The lakes around Soccia offer a rich variety of natural features. You can find unique *pozzines* (grassy wetlands) and peat bogs, especially around Lake Nino, which also features roaming cattle and horses. Lac de Creno is famous for its Laricio pine forests and water lilies. The region's glacial lakes are nestled at high altitudes, providing stunning rock and ice landscapes.

Hiking is a primary activity, with numerous trails leading to and around the lakes. For instance, you can explore mountain hikes like the challenging Climbing by stairs and chains – Lake Capitello loop. There are also options for road cycling in the wider area, with routes such as the Col Saint-Antoine loop from Arbori.

Swimming is generally prohibited in some of the mountain lakes, such as Lake Nino and Lac de Creno, to protect their delicate biodiversity and unique *pozzines*. However, Lake Todda (Tolla), located at a lower altitude, offers opportunities for swimming and water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking from May to September.

The best time to visit is typically from late spring to early autumn. Water lilies at Lac de Creno begin to bloom in June, adding to its beauty. For high-altitude lakes like Lake Capitello, late May can still involve challenging snowfields, so summer months generally offer more accessible conditions.

Lake Nino is a glacial lake and natural monument famed for its unique *pozzines* (grassy wetlands). Visitors describe a magical atmosphere with deep greens, azure blues, and the presence of roaming cattle and horses. It offers exceptional views of the Corsican peaks.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the hike to Lake Capitello from the Restonica Valley is considered demanding. If you have the strength, continuing up to the GR20 from Capitello offers sensational westward views. Another difficult mountain hike is the Lac de Nino – Drinking fountain with shrine loop from Poppaghja.

Lac de Creno is surrounded by local legends, earning it the nickname 'devil's lake.' Annually on August 29th, a procession takes place to the Sant'Eliseo Chapel, located above the lake, which offers magnificent panoramic views. The area around Lake Nino was historically frequented by shepherds for mountain pastures.

Visitors appreciate the tranquil and picturesque atmosphere, especially the unique forested setting of Lac de Creno with its water lilies and pine trees. The scenic beauty and opportunities for nature watching, birdwatching, and the magical ambiance of places like Lake Nino are frequently highlighted. The challenging yet rewarding hikes to lakes like Lake Capitello are also highly valued.

Yes, there is parking available below Lac de Creno, from where you can start your hike. It's also possible to rent a pony or horse from this car park to ride to the lake.

Beyond the immediate vicinity of Soccia, the wider Corsican region offers other notable lakes. Lake Melo is located about 200 meters below Lake Capitello and can be reached from the GR20. Lake Todda (Tolla) is known for water sports, and Lake Bettaniella (also known as Lake Rotondu) is the largest natural lake in Corsica, offering stunning rock and ice landscapes.