Lac de Creno (Lavu di Crena)

Orto

Set in a glacial hollow in the heart of a forest of Corsican laricio pines, the Lac de Creno is the lowest of Corsica's mountain lakes and one of the smallest — 2.3 hectares, 6.5 metres deep — but its reputation far outstrips its size. Its water lilies, peat bogs and carnivorous sundews make it a priority Natura 2000 habitat, managed by the Corsican Regional Nature Park. Tradition nonetheless calls it the devil's lake: the Evil One is said to have taken refuge at the bottom of its dark waters to escape Saint Martin, who was pursuing him. By his prayer, the man of God is said to have dried up the lake to flush out the creature and drive it away, after which the waters returned of their own accord. An iron cross, the Croce Maio, still marks the start of the path and is regarded locally as a protection. A little higher, at around 1,500 metres, the chapel of Sant'Eliseu watches over the valley and gathers a village pilgrimage every 29 August. The walk from Soccia, short and shaded, remains one of the most popular in Corsica: better to come early in the morning or out of season.

Ouest Corsica — le lac de Creno ↗

Getting there : From Soccia (D123 via Vico), free car park at Croce Maio at 999 m, marked by a large iron cross: waymarked path, about 2 hours there and back for 326 m of ascent, manageable for families but rocky. A more demanding variant, more exposed to the sun, from Orto (about 3 hrs 30 min). No road access to the lake itself. Protected peat bogs: keep to the path.

Opening times and access details are given as a guide only: check before you set out.

Ambient sound