A bit of history

Why "the postman's trail"?

This trail owes its name to Guy Ceccaldi, Girolata's postman until his retirement in October 2006. Back when letters were more common than Amazon parcels, he would walk up the trail almost every day to deliver the mail — Girolata being accessible only by sea (a boat trip from Porto, or a barge from Osani) or on foot. Today, the mail arrives by boat.

On the ground

A demanding hike, but with a reward

Moderate level, but best avoided at 2pm under the full July sun — the trail is often very exposed. Along the way, Tuara Stella beach offers a welcome swimming break, even if cows sometimes settle in there from the morning.

Allow around 4 hours for the loop. If you'd rather shorten it, a simple there-and-back significantly cuts the walking time.

On arrival

Girolata, more beautiful on foot than by boat

This is a village I prefer to discover on foot rather than by boat — especially since many boat operators no longer stop there, just passing by the bay. On site, a few shops, and up on the heights, a stone circle — like the one at Capo Rosso.

Before you go

Practical information

Trailhead

Col de la Croix. See the start on Google Maps

Duration

~4h loop, less there-and-back.

Difficulty

Moderate — best avoided in early afternoon in summer.

Water

Drinking fountains available at the start and finish.

Where to stay before/after

See our dedicated page on Osani and hiker logistics.

Your base for the postman's trail and Girolata

Hotel Le Vaïta welcomes you in Porto, less than 30 minutes from the col de la Croix. Luggage, early breakfast, packed lunch — we sort out the logistics for your hike. Book direct for the best rate guaranteed.

Other hikes to explore

Spelunca Gorges

Paved mule track through the Spelunca Gorges from Ota, historic Genoese bridges, swimming in the clear pools of the Lonca.

Tête de Chien

View over the Gulf of Porto from the promontory known as the Château Fort, a good picnic spot, but a gullied path with no steps coming back.

Port de Castagna

A small stone harbour at the water's edge, reached by a coastal path from Porto beach. Swimming possible on arrival.