Lac de Calacuccia

Lac de Calacuccia covers approximately 1.196 square kilometers at an elevation of 793 meters, surrounded by the rugged peaks of Monte Cinto, Paglia Orba, and Cinque Frati in the Niolu region.

Constructed between 1965 and 1968 by Électricité de France, this hydroelectric reservoir faced significant local opposition in August 1964 when around 500 villagers protested against the flooding of ancestral agricultural lands.

The surrounding area preserves traditional Corsican mountain culture through stone villages, local gastronomy featuring sheep cheese and traditional charcuterie, reflecting centuries-old pastoral and agricultural heritage practices.

The lake is accessible via road routes from nearby towns and offers hiking and photography opportunities, though swimming and boating activities are regulated due to dam operations and water management protocols.

This facility generates up to 57 MW of electricity, supplying approximately 10% of Corsica's power needs while supporting downstream irrigation through a Somivac-managed pipeline network serving the Bastia plains.

Location: Calacuccia

Inception: January 1, 1968

Elevation above the sea: 793 m

Address: Lac de Calacuccia, 20224 Calacuccia, France 20224 Calacuccia

GPS coordinates: 42.32640,9.00972

Latest update: August 28, 2025 11:21