Piscia di Gallo

Piscia di Gallo is one of Corsica's most striking waterfalls, tucked away in the forested Ospedale massif within the commune of San-Gavino-di-Carbini, in the Alta Rocca region. The cascade drops roughly 70 to 80 metres down a granite rock face, ranking it among the tallest waterfalls on the island. Framed by wild granite outcrops and dense Mediterranean scrub, it draws hikers and nature seekers looking to escape the busier coastal spots.

Where does the water come from?

The falls are fed by the Petra Piana stream, joined by the Palavesani stream flowing down from the Ospedale reservoir lake. After the two watercourses meet, the water runs roughly 300 metres over exposed rock before plunging down the steep granite wall that forms the waterfall's dramatic main drop.

Where does the name come from?

Piscia di Gallo is commonly translated from Corsican as a reference to the fine spray thrown up by the falling water. Some sources note that this popular version of the name may in fact be a simplification of an older term linked to a conifer tree that once grew nearby, a reminder of how uncertain the origins of Corsican place names can be. Whatever its true root, the waterfall has long served as a landmark for the Alta Rocca area.

How do you get to the waterfall?

The trail to Piscia di Gallo starts in the Ospedale forest and is rated as a moderate hike. The full loop covers just under five kilometres and takes around one hour and thirty-five minutes on average, depending on pace and how many stops are made along the way. The path winds through the pine forest and rocky terrain typical of the Ospedale area, with viewpoints opening onto the valley below.

Where can you park?

The starting point is a car park near the Ospedale dam, roughly two kilometres from the reservoir itself. Parking is a paid service during the summer season, but free the rest of the year. This is worth knowing for anyone planning a visit during peak holiday weeks, when parking spaces near popular Corsican sites tend to fill up quickly.

Who is this hike suited for?

Piscia di Gallo suits visitors with a reasonable level of fitness who are prepared for uneven, rocky ground and a moderate physical effort. Sturdy hiking shoes, water, and sun protection are recommended, since a good portion of the trail runs through exposed terrain. The rocks around the base of the falls can be slippery, especially after rain, so caution is advised when approaching the water.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is the Piscia di Gallo waterfall? The cascade drops around 70 to 80 metres, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Corsica.

Where exactly is Piscia di Gallo located? It sits in the commune of San-Gavino-di-Carbini, in the Alta Rocca region, within the Ospedale forest massif.

How long does the hike to the waterfall take? The trail covers about 4.6 kilometres and takes roughly 1 hour 35 minutes on average, depending on fitness and stops.

Is parking free? The car park near the dam charges a fee in summer and is free outside the tourist season.

What feeds the waterfall? Its main water sources are the Petra Piana and Palavesani streams, connected to the Ospedale reservoir lake.