Olivier Franceschini 3
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Olivier Franceschini 3

5 family-friendly mountain bike trails

The joy of cycling, made simple

Top 5 family mountain bike trails

In Lisula, you can experience the thrills of mountain biking on trails that are signposted and certified by the French Cycling Federation. These family-friendly loops allow you to cycle with confidence, away from traffic, and enjoy the diverse landscapes of Lisula and Balagne.

1. Reginu

Situated in the Reginu Valley, a protected site designated as a Natura 2000 site, this route with minimal elevation gain is a gentle introduction to mountain biking. Starting from Reginu station, the route alternates between quiet roads, tracks and gently sloping paths, making it ideal for learning to navigate changes in terrain. It’s a chance to cycle for an hour through farmland, sometimes in the refreshing shade of olive trees and oaks. It’s advisable to plan your ride around the train timetable.

2. Losari

Starting from Losari beach, this circular route is ideal for introducing young and old alike to the thrills of mountain biking in the great outdoors. With a mix of single track and wider paths, you can ride at your own pace. Partially shaded, the route winds through the Reginu Valley, crossing through scrubland and farmland in a peaceful setting. The route runs alongside and crosses three roads: the Palasca road, the Belgodere road and the Territorial Road 30. The latter requires particular care to ensure a safe ride, but the route as a whole remains accessible. An ideal one-hour ride for a family cycling outing.

3. San Ciprianu

Stretching from Algajola beach to the Pigna plain, this circular route offers a well-rounded family mountain-biking experience. The route first runs alongside the long sandy beach before joining the tracks and narrow paths of the Pigna plain via a safe crossing. Partially shaded, the route winds its way through the scrubland. There are two fords, which are easily crossed in fine weather, but require a degree of caution if it has rained before the ride: you may then need to carry your mountain bike, which could prove difficult for younger riders. Before reaching the roundabout and then Algajola beach, a short wildlife break can enhance the outing with a visit to the educational farm L’Isula di Sogni — the island of dreams — and its animals from Corsica and elsewhere.

4. Fiuminale

Head for the low mountains of Ghjunsani — Giussani and theOlmi-Cappella state forest for a walk lasting around two hours. This introductory circular walk through the villages of Ghjunsani, dominated by Monte Padru, begins at the foot of the church and the Confraternity of St Anthony of Olmi Cappella. The route takes you back into the shade of the forest before climbing towards the outskirts of the village of Vallica. A short break will give those keen to explore the chance to discover the village and its stone houses, weathered by time, before heading up towards Bocca a Croce. From there, it’s time to make your way back to the starting point via the narrow streets of the villageof Olmi-Cappella.

5. Muratu

It is at Clos Culombu, in the plains of the village of Lumio, 15 km from L’Isula — L’Ile-Rousse, that this mountain bike ride, lasting less than an hour, awaits young and old alike. The route starts from the vineyards of the wine estate, leading onto singletracks and trails surrounded by maquis. A few easily manageable descents and climbs make the route enjoyable, whilst the rolling countryside offers a relaxing and exotic panorama, especially if you happen to come across a flock of sheep.