A Cupulatta — Tortoise Conservation Centre

A Cupulatta is a tortoise and turtle conservation park at Vero, in the hills inland from Ajaccio in Corse-du-Sud. It is dedicated to tortoises and turtles from around the world, and it works with conservation and breeding programmes, including efforts linked to the native Hermann's tortoise of Corsica. The park holds one of Europe's larger collections of species, laid out across ponds, enclosures and landscaped gardens that visitors walk through on a marked circuit. Giant tortoises from Aldabra and the Galápagos are among the best-known residents, and several large species are kept together in shared enclosures, while smaller species are housed in dedicated areas that reflect their natural habitats. Informative panels explain the biology and threats facing the animals, and keepers carry out feeding sessions that can be watched at set times. The visit is slow and low-intensity, aimed at families and anyone with an interest in wildlife, and takes between one and a half and two and a half hours. Tortoises are most active in the morning, before the midday heat sends many species into shade, so early visits give the best views. In July and August the park is busiest around midday and early afternoon, and visiting at opening or late in the day is calmer. Admission is about €11 for adults and €7 for children aged 4 to 12, with younger children free. The park lies on the N196 about twenty kilometres from Ajaccio, around twenty-five minutes by car, and there is no public transport, so a hire car is needed. Opening hours change with the season, and winter visits are limited to weekends, so checking in advance is advisable.