Gulf of Girolata

The Gulf of Girolata is a coastal bay ringed by reddish rock formations that rise sharply from the sea and frame a small waterfront village. The settlement sits against steep mountainsides, with the shoreline accessible only by boat or mountain trail.

A defensive tower was built in the mid-16th century following a raid, when the gulf and nearby coasts faced frequent threats from sea raiders. This structure marked an important moment when local communities fortified their settlements.

Fishers and shepherds once made their homes in this sheltered inlet, leaving behind a way of life tied to the land and sea. The village layout and older structures still reflect how people adapted to this isolated mountain-bordered setting.

You can reach this place by boat from Porto or by hiking the Mare e Monti trail from Col de la Croix. Since this is a remote location with few facilities, bring supplies and plan ahead if you want to spend time here.

The gulf was carved by ancient glaciers, and volcanic activity shaped the towering cliffs you see today. In some spots these rock walls climb to about 600 meters (2000 feet), creating one of the region's most striking coastal profiles.