A must-see among the most beautiful places in Corsica! In the Gulf of Ajaccio, at the end of the Pointe de la Parata, this terrestrial and maritime natural site is classified and protected. The fauna and flora present on these islands are very diverse. The Sanguinaires Archipelago consists of 4 islets; Mezu Mare (Great Sanguinaire), Cormorans (or Isolotto), Cala d’Alga, and Porri. This archipelago also serves as a refuge for various
Located at the western end of the Gulf of Ajaccio, the Sanguinaires Islands represent an exceptional natural site that has won the hearts of visitors. Away from urban turbulence, the Sanguinaires Islands, an archipelago of four islands, offer a range of breathtaking landscapes and a rich and varied biodiversity.
Named “Sanguinaires” because of the reddish color the islands take on at sunset, these wild and preserved lands are enveloped in an aura of mystery. The fauna and flora are exceptional, sheltering several endemic species. The presence of numerous seabirds, particularly gulls and cormorants, adds a touch of life to this sumptuous landscape.
On the island of Mezzu Mare, the largest of the archipelago, stands a lighthouse dating from the 19th century. This lighthouse, classified as a Historic Monument, is the emblem of the Sanguinaires Islands. Not far away, the ruins of an old leper colony recall the tumultuous past of these islands. The Sanguinaires Islands also housed a quarry for diorite, a rare rock used in the construction of monuments in the city of Ajaccio.
To discover the Sanguinaires Islands, several options are available. Boat excursions from Ajaccio allow exploring the archipelago from a unique angle. But it’s on foot that you really discover the secrets of these islands. Marked trails cross the island of Mezzu Mare, offering breathtaking panoramas.
The Sanguinaires Islands are also a nature reserve for many species of birds, plants, and insects. The archipelago is home to rare and protected fauna and flora, including several species endemic to Corsica. By taking the hiking trails, you may have the chance to observe mouflons, lizards, or birds such as the peregrine falcon.
The beaches of the Sanguinaires Islands are just as enchanting. Between secret coves and pebble beaches, these wild stretches offer an ideal setting for swimming and lazing around. The Terre Sacrée beach, with its turquoise water and fine sand, is particularly appreciated by visitors. It’s a true paradise for diving enthusiasts, thanks to the richness of its seabed.
The Sanguinaires Islands are a protected natural area. Environmental awareness actions are regularly carried out to preserve this unique natural heritage. It is important to respect the visit rules, especially by not disturbing the fauna and by leaving no trace of your passage.
The Sanguinaires Islands are a true treasure of Southern Corsica, offering wild and preserved landscapes, rich biodiversity, and fascinating historical heritage. Whether for a hike, a boat trip, or just to enjoy its paradisiacal beaches, a visit to the Sanguinaires Islands is an unforgettable experience.
