Lac de Melo

Lac de Melu

A pristine alpine lake in central Corsica surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and accessible via scenic hiking trails. It offers stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for hikers seeking mountain scenery.

Things to do

• Hiking to Lac de Melo — Trek the scenic 1-hour trail from the Bergeries de Grotelle parking area through alpine meadows and rocky terrain to reach the lake's pristine shores.
• Swimming in the alpine lake — Cool off in the clear, cold waters of the lake during summer months when snowmelt has subsided and conditions are safest.
• Visiting Lac de Capitanello — Continue hiking beyond Lac de Melo for another 45 minutes to discover this smaller, equally beautiful sister lake nested higher in the mountains.
• Mountain photography — Capture stunning views of dramatic granite peaks and cirque formations reflected in the crystal-clear alpine waters throughout the day.
• Picnicking by the lake — Pack supplies from the valley and enjoy a meal surrounded by wildflowers and mountain vistas at designated picnic areas near the shore.
• Wildlife observation — Look for endemic Corsican species including mouflon sheep, golden eagles, and alpine salamanders in their natural habitat around the lake and ridges.

Food to try

• Corsican charcuterie — Stock up on local cured meats like figatellu and coppa from valley shops to bring on your hike as sustenance.
• Brocciu cheese — This creamy Corsican whey cheese is a traditional staple that pairs perfectly with bread during a lakeside picnic.
• Chestnuts and honey — Corsican chestnut products and local wildflower honey are energy-rich trail foods available in nearby villages like Corte.
• Aqua di Cristallo spring water — Fill bottles with the pure mountain spring water found near the lake, renowned for its clarity and mineral composition.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive early and bring supplies — The lake has no facilities; start your hike at dawn with plenty of water, food, and sun protection as weather changes rapidly in the mountains.
• Respect grazing mouflon and shepherds — The area is traditional pastural land where Corsican shepherds still herd sheep; observe quietly and stay on marked paths to avoid disturbing animals.
• Weather preparedness is essential — Alpine conditions are unpredictable; bring waterproof gear and be prepared to descend quickly if fog rolls in or storms approach.