Corsican Pine

The Pinus nigra laricio, or Corsican Pine, is an emblematic Mediterranean tree species. Easy to spot with its dark trunk and long, deep green needles, it embodies the wild beauty of our Mediterranean landscapes. You will no doubt come across it during your strolls in Nos Coins de Paradis ® (Our Corners of Paradise). This majestic pine plays a crucial role in the region’s ecosystems, providing food and shelter for many animal and plant species, in particular the little inhabitants of our four-star campsite Les Jardins de La Pascalinette ® in La Londe in the Var area, French Riviera-Côte d’Azur.

In addition to its ecological significance, the Corsican Pine boasts a rich cultural heritage. The ancient Greeks and Romans used its hard wood to build ships, while Mediterranean shepherds considered it a natural shelter for their livestock. Today, it continues to inspire artists and writers, symbolizing the resilience and beauty of our Mediterranean flora.

A fascinating anecdote about the Corsican Pine stems from the days of Napoleon Bonaparte. During his campaign in Corsica, Napoleon was said to have been impressed by the ruggedness of the trees and ordered thousands of Corsican Pines to be planted to reforest the island – an initiative aimed at strengthening the forestry industry while preserving Corsica’s natural resources.

Today, the Corsican Pine is the subject of various conservation and sustainable management programmes designed to preserve its natural habitat and ecological role. Reforestation initiatives are also under way to restore deteriorated areas and ensure the sustainability of this precious species.