The best places to visit in Haute-Corse

Welcome to Corsica, the island of beauty. Nestling in the heart of the Mediterranean, Corsica dazzles visitors with the astonishing diversity of its landscapes. From majestic mountains to white sandy beaches, towns steeped in history and picturesque villages, this island offers an unforgettable travel experience. In this article, we’ll take you through Haute-Corse, a region that perfectly embodies the island’s natural and cultural splendour. Get ready to discover the hidden treasures of this fascinating destination, where every bend in the road reveals a new facet of Corsican beauty.

Discover our top 8 places to visit in Haute-Corse!

1. Bastia

The port city of Bastia, located on Corsica’s east coast, is the ideal starting point for exploring the northern region of the island. As you stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town, you’ll be instantly seduced by the Mediterranean atmosphere that reigns here. Start your visit at the majestic Citadelle de Bastia, a historic fortress offering panoramic views over the city and the port. Next, head for the Place Saint-Nicolas, where the people of Bastia live and where there is plenty of entertainment. One of Bastia’s highlights is the famous Boulevard Paoli, an elegant avenue lined with shops, cafés and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing stroll. Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants near the Vieux-Port for authentic Corsican dishes such as fish soup, Corsican charcuterie and fiadone (Corsican cheese dessert).

Read our full article on the best things to do in Bastia by clicking here.

2. Cap Corse

View of the village of Erbalunga

Head for Cap Corse, a wild and unspoilt peninsula. Stop off at Erbalunga, a charming fishing village with a picturesque little port. Continue on to Macinaggio, where you can admire the coastal scenery. Explore Centuri, a fishing village renowned for its seafood restaurants. One of the gems of Cap Corse is the island of Giraglia, a small island that marks the northernmost point of the island. It is famous for its emblematic lighthouse, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. What’s more, the Customs Officers’ Trail, a picturesque coastal path that runs along the coast, is an exceptional way to discover the raw beauty of Cap Corse. As you follow the trail, you’ll be amazed by the steep cliffs, secluded coves and sparkling blue sea.

3. Saint-Florent

Nestling at the foot of the mountains and fringed by white sandy beaches, this small port town is a jewel of the Mediterranean. Its bustling marina attracts travellers and sailing enthusiasts from all over the world, while the old town, with its narrow streets and stone buildings, exudes an authentic, picturesque atmosphere. Saint-Florent is also the ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding treasures, such as the Désert des Agriates nature reserve and the heavenly beaches that surround it. You can enjoy Corsican cuisine in the many restaurants, taste local wines in the wine cellars, and relax on the beaches of the Roya and Saleccia.

4. Agriates Desert

Located on the north-west coast of the island, the Désert des Agriates is famous for its immaculate beaches of fine sand and crystal-clear waters. Here, time seems to stand still, offering visitors a haven of peace in which to recharge their batteries. To reach this unspoilt paradise, a boat trip from Saint-Florent is often necessary, adding a touch of adventure to this unique experience. When you reach the shores of the Désert des Agriates, you’ll be amazed by the raw beauty of nature, secluded coves and picturesque hiking trails. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the trails on foot or mountain bike, or simply soak up the tranquillity of the place, the Désert des Agriates is a must-see getaway in Corsica.

5. Corte

Nestling in the heart of the island, this Corsican city is framed by majestic peaks, creating a spectacular natural setting. At the heart of Corte stands the Citadelle of Corte, an imposing fortress that was once the seat of power in Corsica. Today it houses the Museum of Corsica, an institution that traces the island’s fascinating history. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town and you’ll discover craft shops, lively cafés, and don’t miss the Place Paoli, a bustling central square. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the proximity of the Parc Naturel Régional de Corse, offering a multitude of trails to explore.

6. Calvi

Calvi, the pearl of Corsica’s west coast, captivates visitors with its Mediterranean charm and captivating history. At the heart of the town is the majestic Citadelle of Calvi, a must-see historic site that dominates the bay and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. Strolling through its cobbled streets, lined with typical shops and restaurants, is a real delight. The quays of Calvi, bordering the turquoise sea, are a lively place to relax, enjoy an ice cream or a coffee on the terrace, or admire the pleasure boats in the harbour. Calvi’s beach, with its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, is also an invitation to swim and take part in water sports.

Enjoy the crystal-clear water and the sea bed with these activities in Calvi :

7. Scandola Nature Reserve

The Scandola Nature Reserve is a natural wonder listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This enchanting site is a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to an impressive variety of flora and fauna. Visitors venturing into this breathtaking reserve are rewarded with spectacular rock formations, sea caves, secluded coves and crystal blue waters. Boat trips from coastal towns such as Calvi allow you to explore this natural treasure, whether admiring the rock formations sculpted by time, or observing the colourful marine life during snorkelling sessions.

8. Balagne

View of the village of Lumio

Balagne, known as the “garden of Corsica”, is a region blessed by nature and culture. This region offers a striking contrast between its hilly landscapes, golden beaches and hilltop villages. As you explore the Balagne, you’ll discover hidden gems such as Pigna, an artisan village renowned for its art and music workshops, Sant’Antonino, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France with its cobbled streets and panoramic views, and Lumio, which offers breathtaking views of the Corsican coast. The region is also renowned for its vineyards, where you can sample tasty Corsican wines.

Find out more about the specialities around Bastia by clicking here.

How do I get to Haute-Corse?

Depending on your point of departure and your preferred mode of transport, you can choose the best option for getting to Haute-Corse:

• Plane: Bastia-Poretta airport (BIA) is the main gateway to Haute-Corse. Once at the airport, you can take a taxi, hire a car or use public transport to get to your final destination.
• Ferry: If you’re travelling from mainland France, you can take a ferry from ports such as Marseille, Nice, or Toulon to the ports of Bastia or Calvi in Haute-Corse. Once on the island, you can explore Haute-Corse by car. Be sure to check ferry timetables and book in advance if you plan to bring your own vehicle.