How can I find out if a ski resort is open today?

The official fire risk map and any prefectural decrees provide information on the restrictions in force. The Tourist Office also publishes details of closures affecting the Balagne region on Lisula Outdoor and the destination’s social media channels.

Does a red zone necessarily mean it’s closed?

The red level indicates a very high fire risk and means that you must not enter the affected natural areas. A statutory closure may also be ordered by a prefectural decree. The map and the day’s official information enable you to distinguish between the risk level and the closure measures actually in place.

Is it allowed to drive when a mountain range is closed?

A mountain closure does not necessarily mean that all roads in the area are closed. Some may remain open to traffic, whilst parking, ski runs, unpaved tracks and access to natural areas may be prohibited or restricted. The measures applicable to the area in question remain the guiding principle.

Can you access the rivers when a mountain range is closed?

No, when a river, a pool or a bathing area is situated within a closed mountain range, it too becomes inaccessible for the duration of the closure. It is therefore not possible to reach these sites on foot, even if it is just to go for a swim or spend a few hours by the water’s edge. In Balagne, this situation may apply in particular to the areas of Tartagine, Fangu and Bonifatu.

Fire risk

From June to September, the risk of wildfires is a reality of summer in Corsica. In Lisula and Balagne, this can affect access to footpaths, forests and natural areas depending on the conditions. The fire risk map, updated daily, allows you to check the alert level and any mountain range closures before going for a hike, a cycle ride or any other outdoor activity. These are useful points to check before setting off.

Understanding the fire risk map

The fire risk map is the official information published by the Prefecture of Corsica to assess the daily risk level across the whole island. During the summer months, it is updated daily at 6 pm for the following day and is accompanied by recommendations regarding visits to natural areas and outdoor activities.

Each area of Corsica is assigned a risk level, indicated by a colour.

Green corresponds to the lowest level, followed by yellow, orange and red, which indicate a gradual increase in risk and the precautions to be taken.

Black indicates an area closed to the public. Depending on the situation, additional restrictions may be imposed by prefectural order.

Fire risk map for June to September

Changing access arrangements

In Balagne and the surrounding area, the Agriate, Tartagine, Bonifatu and Fangu mountain ranges are among the natural areas likely to be subject to restrictions or closures when the risk of wildfire becomes significant. These measures help to protect the sites and the people who visit them.

A mountain range closure primarily affects access to natural areas. It is then forbidden to enter the unpaved paths, tracks and roads within the affected sites on foot, by bike or by vehicle. Some roads used to cross through or reach the villages may remain open to traffic, but parking may be prohibited on them to prevent access to the mountain range from the road.

Stay informed

During the high-risk period, the Tourist Office passes on official information to monitor the situation on a day-to-day basis. The fire risk map is therefore displayed daily in the reception office’s external windows, enabling holiday advisers to provide information on access conditions to the various areas.

Should the risk level rise to ‘red’ or a mountain range be closed, the information is also shared on the destination’s social media channels and via the Lisula Outdoor app, which incorporates data from FOSIVA.

These various channels enable everyone to check conditions before setting out, but also to find alternatives when a planned hike, activity or day out in a natural area needs to be rearranged.

Adapt the programme

Just because a mountain range is closed doesn’t mean the day is wasted.

Lisula and the Balagne offer other ways to enjoy your stay, depending on the conditions on the day: visit a village, meet a local craftsman, explore a cultural site, enjoy the coast where it remains accessible, or choose an activity away from the affected areas.

The Tourist Office’s holiday advisers are on hand to help you find an alternative and rearrange your day to suit your preferences.

I’ll get in touch with the Tourist Office for some ideas on things to do