Lake Creno, or Crenais the lowest of Corsica's lakes and the only wooded lake surrounded by laricio pines.
Located in the region of the Two Sorru, in the Monte Rotondo massif, the lake rises to 1310 metres above the villages of Guagno, Orto and Soccia. It is only accessible by footpaths.
With a maximum depth of 6 metres, the lake is fed by the Creno stream, which flows into the Fiume Grosso river, a tributary of the Liamone river.
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What is Lake Creno?
Corsica is the island of shepherds but it is also the island of lakes. If you want to see splendid stretches of water in the heart of the Corsican mountains, then you absolutely must go and see the Lake of Creno
Lake Creno is the only lake with a forest environment in Corsica. It is one of the lowest glacial lakes at an altitude of 1310 metres.
With a maximum depth of 6 metres, the lake is fed by the Creno stream, which flows into the Fiume Grosso river, a tributary of the Liamone river.
Its special feature is the presence on its banks of a small carnivorous plant, the Drosera, and the seasonal blooming of water lilies.
This 2-hectare mountain lake is surrounded by stands of laricio pine. It is the only one in the Corsican mountains to be located in a forest environment.
The water in this lake has an acid pH of 6.5 and a high silica content. This habitat exists in Corsica at just one site: Lac de Creno in the southern part of the Rotondo massif, in the commune of Orto.
This place is rather atypical compared to the lake landscapes usually found in Corsica. It's so different from other lakes that you'd almost think you were in Quebec!
Another highly original feature is the presence of carnivorous plants, the drosera, on islands of sphagnum moss.
Palynological interest is also important, as the thick layer of peat has made it possible to carry out pollinological analyses (the study of fossil pollen), enabling us to retrace past climatic sequences.
Where is Lake Creno?
Situated in western Corsica (in the Deux Sorru region, to be precise) in the Monte Rotondo massif, the lake is close to the villages of Guagno, Orto and Soccia. It is accessible only by footpaths.
A haven of peace in the heart of the forest about 70 km north-east of Ajaccio, not far from the picturesque village of Soccia. This typical remote mountain village, which exudes authentic Corsican character, is set against the backdrop of Monte Sant'Eliseo, where ancient granite houses are exposed with breathtaking views over the valley. Soccia is a truly charming village, so try to save some time for a stroll after hiking to Lake Creno. To reach Soccia, and especially the start of the trail, follow the winding roads through Sagone, Vico and Guagno-les-Bains. Or, coming from Porto, Evisa, you will have to pass the sevi pass, and cross Vico. Once in Soccia, enter the village, turn right when you see a small white sign handwritten "lac de Creno" and a little further on, you will have to turn left where there is another small green sign, be careful not to miss this turn because otherwise it's back for a tour of the village. Once you are at the top, you will arrive at two well laid out earthen car parks, overhung by a huge steel cross called Croce maio in Corsican. Ready to walk?
This place is rather atypical compared to the lake landscapes usually found in Corsica.
It's so different from other lakes that you'd think you were in Quebec!
Alone, with a partner or with a group of friends, discovering Lake Creno is one of the region's unmissable attractions.
Reputed to be the easiest lake in Corsica to access, Lake Creno is the only lake on the island crowned with a forest of laricio pines.
This woody decor is complemented by the water lilies (in flower in early summer) which partly cover it, creating a truly unique and bewitching decor.
This grandiose and charming lake is truly a lake apart from the others.
Its beauty, which is discovered at the last moment when the laricio pines open up on it, will enchant young and old.
It is also an idyllic place for a picnic break or a little nap. But swimming is not recommended and fishing is not allowed.
The history of Lake Creno
Shortly before the lake, visitors are often intrigued by an iron cross in poor condition. Few people know the history of this cross. It was erected as an incentive to pray that the devil would not return to the dark waters of Lake Creno. For since the dawn of time, a mysterious belief has earned the lake the name of Devil's Lake.
Legend has it that the devil once hid at the bottom of the lake, probably to escape once again from his great adversary, Saint Martin. He was driven out by the prayers of a holy man, who drained the lake of all its water. After the devil's escape, the lake returned to its normal water level. This legend comes from the fact that the lake has black water due to the belt of trees that surround it. Vade retro Satanas! From now on, the place, as evil as it is enchanting, is protected by Saint Eliseo, who has his pilgrimage chapel just above it, at an altitude of 1500 metres. Traditionally, the
The pilgrimage of Saint Elisée takes place on 29 August: the religious ceremony ends with an aperitif and a picnic on site or around the lake
But more seriously, the lake is of glacial origin and is classified as a green lake according to its biological "productivity
Green lakes are warmer, richer and more productive bodies of water. The surface temperature of the water is 15°C in summer and the ice cover is maintained for 6.5 months. The vegetation belt is more important than in the other Alpine lakes. The green colour of the water is due to organic matter. This type of lake is found mainly in the Corsican regional park (Creno, Nino, Bastabi lakes, etc.).
The legend of Lake Creno or Devil's Lake...
Legend has it that the devil once hid at the bottom of the lake, probably to escape once again from his great adversary, Saint Martin. He was driven out by the prayers of a holy man, who drained the lake of all its water. After the devil's escape, the lake returned to its normal water level. Now the place, as evil as it is enchanting, is protected by Saint Eliseo, who has his pilgrimage chapel just above it, at an altitude of 1500 metres. Traditionally, the pilgrimage of Saint Eliseo takes place on 29 August: the religious ceremony ends with an aperitif and a picnic on site or around the lake.
How to get to Lake Creno (by foot, by car, ...)
Rather easy, its ascent will be quick for the most athletic or simply gentle for the less trained (or those who drag grumpy teenagers behind them... But here again, we have a solution for you!)
There are several ways to access the site:
- on foot, from Soccia
- on foot, from Orto
- by donkey, from Soccia
Experienced hikers who find the hike "too easy" can continue on to the Sant Eliseo chapel, the Izzola sheepfolds or Lake Nino.
Well, we don't really have a choice of means of transport to get to the start of the path leading to Lake Creno: it'll be along the main road.
You can come via Sagone, Vico or Evisa and the Col de Sevi. At Vico, you'll need to turn off and head for Guagno, on the D23 as far as Soccia. However, once you've reached the Croce maio parking lot, above the village of Soccia, you can get there by means other than walking.
Lake Creno on foot
The trail is only accessible to pedestrians or pack animals, and that's fine. You can enjoy the silence and nature in an unspoilt environment.
The hike to Lake Creno starts below a large metal cross in the parking lot above the village of Soccia.
There's a large sign at the bottom of the path, and you have to start where there's a concrete pipe sunk into the ground (in season, the parking lot is shared by a working refreshment stall and a donkey and horse hire business)
The stony path begins, which is fairly easy but climbs all the way, and the first part is the steepest.
Along the way, you can replenish your water reserves at the Funtana di a Veduvella, a freshwater spring. The trail climbs steadily, ending at 1310 m, where the lake is located.
It's about an hour and a half's walk to reach Lake Creno, and as every effort deserves a reward, as you turn the bend in the path, you'll discover this atypical body of water in an almost mystical atmosphere.
Lake Creno on horseback or by donkey
Why not try a horse or pony ride? Have you ever thought of riding a donkey?
Whether you're a horse-riding enthusiast or simply want to discover nature on horseback, this activity is accessible to all.
You can hire a horse, donkey or pony at the start of the trail. If you want to relieve your back of its baggage, or allow your children to rest during the trail, this is the ideal companion: it takes the little ones on a well-paced walk, and relieves them when they're tired.
Parents walk with lighter luggage, and children look after their companion, without seeing the time go by.
It's a chance to experience adventure while respecting nature. Let yourself be lulled by the rhythm of the horses, admire the scenery and enjoy the intoxicating scents of the maquis - it's a dream come true.
There are several possible routes to Lake Creno on foot. You can start from the nearby villages of Soccia or Orto, but the distance to the lake is not the same.
Lake Creno by Soccia
To get there, head towards Sagone and Vico to reach the village of Soccia.
The road inside the village is winding and in poor condition. Follow the signs and take the junction in the center of the village until you reach the plateau with the parking lot and the large cross overlooking it.
The trailhead is marked by a wooden sign opposite the large water conduit. Less than 4 km to reach the lake, which is partly frozen in winter. Yellow markers on the rocks and 3 visible signs at intersections.
The return journey takes the same route as the outward journey. No major difficulties on this trail. Avoid fog in winter.
Lake Creno by Orto
It's also possible to set off from the village of Orto for a longer version, around 3.30 hours round trip, which is even more magnificent.
The lake is surrounded by trees, making it a welcome haven of peace and coolness in summer, but the path to the lake is rather open, so it's important to remember to protect yourself from the sun (long-sleeved T-shirt, sunglasses and hat) and to bring plenty of water.
At the height of summer, it's a good idea to set off at sunrise to avoid the midday heat wave.
When can I get to Lake Creno?
Because of its low altitude and early snowmelt, Lake Creno is one of the first lakes accessible in spring.
It's also one of the shortest hikes in terms of walking time.
Whatever the season, the lake is always beautiful, perhaps a little more so in spring when the wooded scenery is complemented by the water lilies in bloom that partly cover it, creating a truly unique and bewitching setting. Or in October, when the maquis takes on its autumnal colors.
As for the time of day to make the most of it, you'll need to leave early in the morning and return in the early afternoon. That way, you'll be sure to avoid lingering, as clouds quickly cover the sky and can become threatening without warning.
The weaker spring sun can give way to clouds and wind, and as the weather clouds over and the wind blows through the pines, the scenery immediately becomes less romantic! The lake quickly changes from a friendly, benevolent face to an icy, threatening landscape. And that's why it's known as Devil's Lake, "chilling even the most daring of visitors"!
A victim of its own fame, Lake Creno attracts a large number of visitors during the vacation season. To ensure your peace of mind, it's best to leave in the early hours of the morning, as this will also guarantee you space to park your vehicle.
Although the parking lot is well laid out and relatively large, it nevertheless has difficulty absorbing the flow of visitors during the summer season.
Where to sleep near Lake Creno?
If you want to sleep as close as possible to the start of the hike, or plan a place to rest afterwards, there are several alternatives.
Closer to home are the villages ofOrto and Soccia, where you'll find a hotel and some rental accommodation.
You can also choose to set off from another part of the country, but you'll need to allow for a maximum 2h30 drive.
A sea and mountains destination, the Ouest Corsica region offers accommodation to suit all tastes. From open-air hotels to self-catering cottages and residences, the choice is yours. Whether you want to sleep to the sound of the waves by the sea or in the heart of the forest, admire a sunset or a starry sky, find all the information you need in our Stay section.
What can you see at Lake Creno?
The surface of the lake, which was built about twenty years ago, is partly covered with water lilies, creating an even more relaxing landscape in early summer.
In addition to the forest of Laricio pines, the lake is surrounded by small remarkable grasslands that develop on its shepherds' paths and are called pozzines.
It is in this particularly sensitive environment that a small, rare and protected carnivorous plant grows, the round-leaved Drosera, Drosera rotundifolia ssp. corsica. It is a protected plant on the whole national territory: collection, use and transport are forbidden.
The Creno Lake walk is accessible to all and immerses you in the typical Corsican landscape. Along the way, you will discover the typical flora and fauna of the Corsican maquis, and then, more specifically, when you reach the outskirts of Lake Creno.
Its special flora
Beautiful Italian immortals, terminal heathers, foxgloves, but also some chestnut trees and Corsican thyme cover the many rocks.
The surface of the lake, which was built about twenty years ago, is partly covered with water lilies, creating an even more relaxing landscape in early summer.
In addition to the forest of Laricio pines, the lake is surrounded by small remarkable grasslands that develop on its banks and are called pozzines.
It is in this particularly sensitive environment that a small, rare and protected carnivorous plant grows, the round-leaved Drosera, Drosera rotundifolia ssp. corsica. It is a protected plant on the whole national territory: collection, use and transport are forbidden.
All the grass you see on the lake are pozzines: wet grasslands established on peaty soils. These wetlands of the high Corsican mountains are recognised by the European Directive
"The pozzines of Lake Creno are remarkable, particularly because of the presence of particularly rare and protected plant species. The pozzines of Lake Creno are remarkable, particularly because of the presence of particularly rare and protected plant species.
Its wildlife
Known for its remarkable flora, the fauna is also well present, several species can be named such as: the Corsican nuthatch, the crossbill, the wood creeper, the Corsican salamander. Since the reintroduction of the Corsican deer in the region in 2009, a few individuals have been observed near the lake. It is not uncommon to come across free roaming pigs in October and November, they hunt down chestnuts, they love them!
What activities are available near Lake Creno?
In addition to great photos and a breath of fresh air, what activity memories will you bring back from your hike on Lake Creno?
A ride on horseback or on the back of a donkey will provide unforgettable photo opportunities, as well as lots of laughs with our four-legged friends.
The Zoicu canyon is a well-known waterway for canyoning enthusiasts. In two places (downstream), it also offers beautiful natural pools in which to cool off after a hike to Lake Creno, for example.
A visit to the honey house located in the village of Murzo, will allow you to pack some sweets in your suitcase.
The potter or cutler will be happy to welcome you to their store, just give them a call beforehand to make an appointment.
And an artisanal ice cream tasting tempt you? There's some excellent ice cream in Sagone, with our master ice cream maker.
Other Corsican souvenirs: fashion designers. Whether you're looking for beauty, decoration, clothing or jewelry, you're sure to find producers on your way home in small stalls, giving you the opportunity to stroll through the villages to unearth the rare pearl.
Is visiting Lake Creno free?
Yes, the trip to Lake Creno is completely free.
No tolls, no paid parking, and parking is also free.
However, a word of advice during the season: just arrive early to be sure of finding a place close to the starting point, as the parking lot, even if it's big, can't absorb all the visitors.
Where to eat at Lake Creno
Right from the start, a refreshment stand serves refreshments and also provides food.
You can also picnic on the tables and benches set up around the lake for a lunch break.
Alternatively, in the village of Soccia, you're sure to find a good restaurant serving local mountain specialities.
You can enjoy charcuterie and meat dishes: lonzu, coppa, prisuttu, saucisson... the good parts of the pig! but not only....
Sweet treats are also on the menu, and desserts in Corsica often revolve around cheeses such as brocciu and chestnut flour - yum!
As for fruit, clementine and citron are very popular, with myrtle to be enjoyed as an after-dinner liqueur! In short, you'll be spoilt for choice!
Who's Lake Creno for?
Don't forget that hiking in Corsica is hiking in the mountains.
It's essential to be well equipped, even for a so-called easy hike, with good shoes, warm clothing and, above all, water.
But the Lac de Creno walk is more for the general public and can satisfy everyone's desire for an activity.
- Contemplatives:
If your aim is to stay focused on the itinerary, on the pleasure of walking and discovering new horizons with every step, then the walk to Lake Creno is for you. A gentle, gradual but steady climb (with no shade in the first part).
The rest of the way is on a superb, well-maintained and safe trail to Lake Creno. It's impossible to get lost, everything is well signposted, so leave early to avoid the heat.
Approximately 2 hours of walking with a 310m difference in altitude, almost within everyone's reach, isn't it?
On arrival, the perfect place for contemplation: the marvellous natural landscape, which is so calm and tranquil that it even prompts meditation.
- The families
If you're looking for what hike to do with kids in Corsica, this is it!
It is one of the most beautiful hikes in Corsica, starting from the village of Soccia, which is situated on a rocky spur at 650 m altitude, 70 km north of Ajaccio.
The path is pleasant and accessible to all. The climb at the start is the most difficult, then it gets a little steeper, and continues without shade (leave early in the summer) then the path rises through scrub and ferns. The end of the path is in the forest until you reach the lake, which is only discovered at the last moment.
It will take you about 2 hours of walking to reach Lake Creno, your reward. The lake is covered with water lilies at the beginning of the season. Take time to enjoy the view!
In season, you can hire donkeys from Lake Creno to explore the region. Your children will love it.
This gentle, calm animal is the ideal companion for your little darlings. He'll fill many a line on postcards sent to grandparents, and will be the perfect subject for selfie breaks with the little ones.
Don't hesitate to double your walking time, especially with children, so that you can take plenty of breaks for drinks and snacks, and make the most of your hike.
- Sportsmen and women:
The hike to Lake Creno is known as a "family" or "easy" hike, due to its short duration and lack of difficulty. It is very popular with tourists, but not so much with performance-oriented hikers.
In fact, you can extend the walk by going up to the Sant Eliso chapel or climbing Sant'Eliseu (allow an extra 2 hrs), or by reaching the Izzola sheepfolds (allow an extra 1 hr).
You can also continue on the GR20 via Bocca d'Acqua Ciarnente (over 3h) and the Vaccaghia sheepfolds (4h).
And for the more experienced, you can go all the way to Lake Ninu, with a further 8 to 9 hours. Enough to satisfy your desire for a challenge, if that's your aim.
- For lovers
Vacations for two are so romantic. Nature lovers, and lovers in general, will be delighted when they arrive at the lake, where the atmosphere is so calm, it's almost unreal. It exudes a mystical, almost supernatural aura.
In summer, in addition to the reeds, numerous white and pink water lilies bloom on the lake. You can also admire the pozzines, lawns crossed by streams that soak them with water to the point of creating water holes.
With your lover, what could be more beautiful than a legendary landscape? Now it's up to you to pull out all the stops...
