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Spanning the 2km between the villages of Ota and Evisa, a few kilometres east of Porto, the Gorges de Spelunca are a formidable sight, with bare orange granite walls, 1km deep in places, plunging into the foaming green torrent created by the confluence of the rivers Porto, Tavulella, Onca, Campi and Aitone. The sunlight, ricocheting across the rock walls, creates a sinister effect that's heightened by the dark jagged needles of the encircling peaks. The most dramatic part of the gorge can be seen from the road, which hugs the edge for much of its length. EVISA 's bright orange roofs emerge against a lush background of chestnut forests about 10km from Ota, on the eastern edge of the gorge, and the village makes the best base for hiking in the area. Situated 830m above sea level, it caters well for hikers and makes a pleasant stop for a taste of mountain life - the air is invariably crisp and clear, and the food particularly good. The best place to stay is La Chataigneraire , a rambling schist and granite building with rooms set amid chestnut trees, on the west side of the village towards Porto (tel 04.95.26.24.27, fax 04.95.26.33.11; 220-300F/?34-46; closed Nov-March). The smaller Hotel du Centre (tel 04.95.26.20.92; 220-300F/?34-46; closed Nov-Jan), opposite the statue in the centre of the village, is another good choice, with friendly proprietors and an excellent little restaurant serving wholesome Corsican specialities. A somewhat grander affair is the Hotel l'Aitone , at the north exit to the village (tel 04.95.26.20.04, fax 04.95.20.24.18; 220-300F/?34-46; closed mid-Nov to Dec), which has luxurious rooms and a swimming pool boasting views over the valley. Camping Paisolu d'Aitone 1km east of the village (tel 04.95.26.20.39), is a well-situated year-round campsite .
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