Southern Corsica is a land of contrasts and beauty, a destination that awakens the imagination and invites adventure. With its white sandy beaches, majestic mountains, villages steeped in history and breathtaking scenery, each region of southern Corsica offers a unique experience. Here’s a guide to must-see regions of Southern Corsica for an unforgettable voyage of discovery.
The capital of southern Corsica, Ajaccio is a vibrant city, rich in culture and history. Explore Napoleon Bonaparte’s birthplace, stroll around the marina, or relax on the beaches of the Gulf of Ajaccio. The surrounding area offers wild, unspoilt landscapes, perfect for hiking or boating.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Gulf of Porto is famous for its impressive Calanques de Piana, emerald waters and flamboyant sunsets. Don’t miss a visit to the Scandola nature reserve, accessible only by sea, for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Corsican nature.
Bonifacio, with its limestone cliffs and perched citadel, is a geological and historical marvel. Discover the Roy d’Aragon staircase carved into the rock, sail around the Lavezzi islands, and lose yourself in the narrow streets of the old town.
The Escalier du Roy d’Aragon, carved out of Bonifacio’s limestone cliffs, is a historic and natural feat that fascinates all visitors. Legend has it that the 187-step staircase was dug in a single night by the troops of the King of Aragon during the siege of the city in the 15th century. Today, it offers a vertiginous descent to the sea, with spectacular views of Bonifacio’s white cliffs and emerald waters. Walking along this staircase is an immersive experience, allowing you to experience at first hand the tumultuous history of Corsica and Bonifacio. At the bottom, visitors are rewarded with an exceptional panorama of the Mediterranean, making the Escalier du Roy d’Aragon a must-see for lovers of nature and history.
The Lavezzi Islands, just a short boat ride from Bonifacio, form a heavenly archipelago in the heart of the Bouches de Bonifacio nature reserve. These granite islets, scattered between Corsica and Sardinia, are a sanctuary for Mediterranean flora and fauna. Their rugged beauty, with sandy beaches fringed by crystal-clear waters, invites you to relax and discover. Diving and snorkeling are particularly outstanding, offering the opportunity to explore seabeds rich in biodiversity. A visit to the Lavezzi Islands is also an opportunity to pay tribute to the marine cemetery, a moving reminder of the sinking of the frigate La Sémillante in 1855. This protected site, inaccessible to vehicles, is a haven of peace where nature reigns supreme, offering an unforgettable getaway from the hustle and bustle of the continent.
Porto-Vecchio is renowned for its heavenly beaches, including Palombaggia and Santa Giulia often cited among the world’s most beautiful beaches. Behind the stretches of fine sand, the Alta Rocca mountains offer an ideal playground for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Palombaggia beach, the jewel of southern Corsica, is a must-see destination for all visitors to the island of Beauty. Renowned for its fine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters and majestic line of umbrella pines, this beach offers an idyllic setting for relaxation and water sports. Protected by reefs and rocky islets, Palombaggia invites you to snorkel and explore its rich marine fauna. Services such as deckchair hire and straw huts offering local cuisine and refreshments guarantee a pleasant stay.
comfortable, tasty beach day. The beauty of Palombaggia, often cited as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, makes it a popular photo spot for visitors from all over the world, seeking to capture the very essence of Corsica’s paradise.
The beach at Santa Giulia, not far from Porto-Vecchio, is another pearl of southern Corsica, famous for its vast lagoon of shallow, clear waters, set in a picture-postcard setting. Surrounded by gentle hills and unspoilt nature, Santa Giulia offers exceptional panoramic views, making it an ideal location for families, water sports enthusiasts and those in search of relaxation. The beach is equipped for the comfort of visitors, with deckchair and parasol rental areas, as well as several establishments where you can enjoy local specialities right on the water. Whether paddling, sailing or simply sunbathing, Santa Giulia promises a memorable experience, combining the pleasures of the sea with the breathtaking beauty of the Corsican landscape. Santa Giulia’s calm, clear waters are also perfect for diving and observing underwater life, offering a fascinating natural spectacle for young and old alike.
The Alta Rocca, a mountainous and forested region, is the ideal place to reconnect with nature. Discover the Aiguilles de Bavella, the natural pools of the Solenzara, and picturesque villages such as Zonza and Sainte-Lucie de Tallano.
The Aiguilles de Bavella, spectacular rock formations in the Alta Rocca massif in southern Corsica, offer an exceptional playground for hikers. This emblematic site, known for its jagged peaks rising proudly into the sky, offers a variety of hiking itineraries, offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding valleys and the sea in the distance. The hike to the Trou de la Bombe, an impressive natural monument, is particularly popular for its rugged beauty and accessibility. The well-marked trails pass through forests of laricio pine, crystal-clear waterways and mountainous landscapes rich in biodiversity, bearing witness to the power and splendor of Corsican nature.
To discover the Aiguilles de Bavella is to embark on an adventure where nature reveals its most beautiful secrets. For experienced hikers, the GR20, one of Europe’s most difficult and spectacular long-distance hiking trails, passes nearby, offering unrivalled challenges and rewards. But Bavella isn’t just for seasoned adventurers; shorter, less demanding routes are also available, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty of the site at their own pace. In addition to hiking, Bavella is a popular spot for rock climbing, with equipped routes for all levels. The region is also a starting point for canyoning in the Solenzara gorges, offering a refreshing and exciting experience in the heart of the Corsican mountains.
Southern Corsica is a permanent invitation to adventure, offering a diversity of landscapes and experiences that will satisfy every traveler. Whether you’re looking for idyllic beaches, mountain walks, cultural discoveries or simply moments of relaxation in the heart of nature, South Corsica is a destination that won’t leave you indifferent. Each region of Southern Corsica has its own personality, hidden treasures and traditions, promising a trip rich in emotions and memories.
