Long way home

Condensation soaked our tent last night and waking up isn’t very pleasant this morning (after 9 hours of sleep nonetheless). We take longer than usual to get ready because we have to be careful not to wet our belongings with the slightest movement. We set off through a forest, the path easy even at night.

A big climb awaits us this morning, with a spot of climbing thrown in. Fortunately, I’ve toughened up these last few days and these sections are no longer a problem. We reach the summit under the rising sun. Then comes an immense descent through blocks of stone and pines.

Discovering the heart

This day is all about discovering the centre of Corsica, whose landscapes are quite different from what we’ve been used to until now. From now on we discover forests, gentle rivers and rounded rocks.

We have lunch at a restaurant and use this energy boost to make our way toward our sheepfold. Indeed, as usual, a storm threatens. After a new ascent, a grassy descent near the shores of Lake Nino, then a long flat section, we finally arrive at our stopping point. The place is rustic, to say the least. The shepherd sells us beers, dried sausage and homemade cheese. Just what we need to rebuild our strength, although the smell of the cheese could easily keep a battalion of legionnaires awake.

Tomorrow we’ll finally enjoy a quiet little stage, which will no doubt allow us to appreciate the magnificent landscape even more.