Vacation towns in Corsica
Corsica, the Isle of Beauty, is packed with fascinating destinations that attract travelers every year in search of spectacular scenery, rich cultural heritage and authentic experiences. Among these emblematic locations, Calvi, Porto-Vecchio, Saint-Florent and Bonifacio stand out as the most popular destinations. Here’s an overview of what each of these cities has to offer.
Calvi, Between the Mountains and the Emerald Sea
Calvi, with its citadel overlooking the bay, is a perfect blend of culture, history and sublime beaches. The town is famous for its jazz festival and lively alleyways, while its sandy beach is a sun-lover’s paradise. Hikers will also appreciate the trails of the haute Corse offering breathtaking views over the Gulf of Calvi.
Calvi’s Pinède beach is a veritable oasis of tranquillity, nestling along Corsica’s north-west coast. This stretch of white sand, bordered by a forest of maritime pines, offers an idyllic setting for families, couples and friends wishing to get away from it all in unspoilt natural surroundings. The deep-blue sea, clear and welcoming, invites you to swim and relax under the Mediterranean sun. The beach is also renowned for its water sports activities, including sailing, paddling and kayaking, allowing visitors to take full advantage of the beauty of the Gulf of Calvi. Nearby amenities, including beach bars and restaurants, offer refreshments and tasty local dishes, completing the relaxing experience. La Pinède beach is not only a place to relax, but also an ideal starting point for exploring Calvi’s cultural riches, including its historic citadel.
Porto-Vecchio, The Pearl of the South
Porto-Vecchio, nicknamed the “City of Salt”, is renowned for its dream beaches such as Palombaggia and Santa Giulia, considered among the most beautiful in the world. This city
The vibrant city boasts a vibrant nightlife, chic boutiques and a captivating historical heritage. Water sports enthusiasts will find everything they need, from diving to windsurfing.
Palombaggia beach, south of Porto-Vecchio, is one of Corsica’s pearls, frequently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches. Its fine white sand, crystal-clear waters and red granite rocks offer a breathtaking natural spectacle. Bordered by a pine forest that provides pleasant natural shade during the hot hours, Palombaggia is the perfect place for those looking to combine relaxation and natural beauty. The beach is particularly popular with families thanks to its shallow, safe swimming areas. For snorkelers, the reefs around Palombaggia are home to a diverse and colorful marine life. The beach is surrounded by several establishments offering local specialities and refreshments, allowing visitors to sample the flavours of southern Corsica while enjoying a heavenly setting.
Saint-Florent Le Saint-Tropez Corse
Saint-Florent combines the charm of an old fishing port with the glamour of a modern seaside resort. Its strategic position at the entrance to the Agriates desert makes it the ideal starting point for exploring wild beaches accessible only by boat. The region is also a gastronomic crossroads, famous for its AOC Patrimonio wines.
Saleccia beach, accessible by boat from Saint-Florent, is one of Corsica’s hidden gems, offering a wonderful escape to one of the island’s wildest and most unspoilt beaches. This stretch of white sand, bordered by turquoise waters and unspoilt nature, is a paradise for those looking to get away from the crowds and connect with the raw beauty of Corsica. Boat trips to Saleccia depart regularly from Saint-Florent, offering a captivating maritime adventure through the Agriates Desert, a spectacular landscape of scrubland and mountains. Arriving in Saleccia by sea allows you to discover unparalleled views of the coast and enjoy a day of relaxation, swimming and picnicking in an idyllic setting. These guided tours also offer the opportunity to learn more about the region’s history and ecology, enriching the experience of this island getaway.
Bonifacio, Natural Spectacle and Millenary History
Bonifacio, perched on white limestone cliffs, is a breathtaking sight. The fortified upper town is packed with historic monuments, while its dizzying staircases
offer a memorable descent to the sea. Excursions to the Lavezzi islands are a must, offering snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and the discovery of an unspoilt ecosystem.
Sea trips from Bonifacio to the Lavezzi islands and the Maddalena archipelago are unforgettable maritime experiences, immersing visitors in the splendor of the seascapes between Corsica and Sardinia. Sailing from Bonifacio’s historic port offers unique views of the limestone cliffs and geological formations that characterize this part of the Corsican coast. The Lavezzi Islands, a group of granite islets bathed in clear waters, are an Eden for snorkeling, discovering marine life and lazing on fine sandy beaches. Continuing on to the Maddalena archipelago in Sardinia, visitors are greeted by even more enchanting landscapes, where each island offers its own character and heavenly beaches. These boat excursions offer not only refreshing sea bathing, but also cultural stops to explore the local heritage and gastronomy, for a day rich in discovery and Mediterranean pleasures.
An Enchanted Journey Through Corsica
Corsica’s tourist destinations promise an unforgettable escape through a variety of landscapes, from mountains to crystal-clear seas, via towns steeped in history. Each city offers a unique experience, impressing visitors with its beauty, culture and warm welcome. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or cultural discovery, Corsica, with its flagship destinations of Calvi, Porto-Vecchio, Saint-Florent and Bonifacio, will meet all your expectations, leaving you with lasting memories of your stay on the Isle of Beauty.
