Feliceto

A ‘blessed’ village

Feliceto

Nestled at the foot of San Parteu and the first foothills of Montegrossu, Filicetu – Feliceto occupies a unique position. Its name derives from the local flora, evoking the expanses of ferns –‘a filetta’ – that cover its slopes. The rocky peaks and the cultivated plains lie in close proximity, whilst the water – at times abundant – flowing down from the hills brings true bounty to the land below. Vineyards and olive groves thus flourish in the Reginu valley, nourished by this coolness from the heights.

Getting there

As the water flows

In Filicetu, water shapes the landscape as it winds its way through the village. Springs, fountains and small channels wind their way between the stone houses and cultivated terraces, blending naturally with the terrain, whilst around the villagechestnut trees, oaks and maquis intertwine. Further down, the landscape opens out onto the olive groves and vineyards of the Reginu Valley, which are still cultivated today. This constant coolness shapes the local landscape and bears witness to the village’s historic agricultural heritage.

The parish church of Saint-Nicolas stands out for its unusual location away from the village centre: its bell tower rises below, set apart from the maze of narrow streets. The building is home, in particular, to a remarkable organ, the case and musical mechanism of which are listed as Historic Monuments.

Vineyards, olive groves and crafts

The Filicetu region retains its undiminished agricultural vitality. In the valley, the Renucci and Maestracci estates embody two renowned family-run winemaking traditions within the Corse-Calvi AOP. The olive tree reigns supreme: at the Moulin du Château, Pierre Florczyk tends an olive grove comprising several thousand trees, joined in this quest for excellence by the Domaine du Reginu in Cornu Grossu.

From legend to the dizzying heights of San Parteu

Beyond the last houses in the village, the rock quickly reasserts itself. The paths climb towards Falcunaghja, a striking stone dwelling nestled beneath the cliff, which local lore readily links to tales of bandits, including those of the famous Spada.

At the very top, the summit of San Parteu defines the skyline and demands a much more strenuous pace. The slopes are home to the Espace Trail de Lisula’s Kilomètre Vertical – a route with a relentless climb, designed for very seasoned runners.

KV Challenge

The San Parteu Challenge

Filicetu is a real playground for thrill-seekers and lovers of the great outdoors. The village is home to the formidable Vertical Kilometre at the Espace Trail de Lisula, a formidable challenge that soars towards the peaks. This gruelling climb up to San Parteu offers seasoned athletes a reward worthy of their efforts: an unrivalled panoramic view of the Mediterranean and the rugged ridges of the Upper Balagne.