Our inspirations in Haute-Corse

Exploring northern Corsica

The Agriate Desert: a must-see!

Explore the wild and unspoilt Agriate Desert with our exclusive 4x4 excursion. Inaccessible to conventional vehicles, this region offers exceptional panoramas and secluded beaches, perfect for an escape away from the crowds. Let us guide you on a day of adventure through this jewel of Corsican nature. Our expert guide will take you along hidden trails and secret beaches, sharing the secrets of this unique landscape. Take advantage of this experience to discover the hidden treasures of the Agriate, far from the beaten track and in complete comfort.

Gorges de la Restonica and mountain lakes

The Gorges de la Restonica, renowned for their natural beauty and crystal-clear mountain lakes, are a must-see for any visitor to Haute-Corse. Due to the site's popularity and in order to preserve its ecological integrity, access by private vehicle is now regulated during the high season. Fortunately, an efficient shuttle service is available to transport visitors from the parking lot to the main hiking sites, including the Melo and Capitello lakes. This not only reduces environmental impact, but also makes for a more pleasant, less crowded experience. Take advantage of this organized tour to explore Restonica's natural wonders in peace, without the hassle of traffic or parking.

Must-see beaches in the north

The north of Haute-Corse is dotted with exceptional beaches where the sun and fine sand invite you to relax and discover. From Saint-Florent to Calvi, via Cap Corse and Île-Rousse, explore these heavenly stretches.

• Saleccia beach: Near Saint-Florent, accessible by coastal path or boat, Saleccia beach is famous for its white sand and crystal-clear waters, offering an idyllic setting for nature lovers. You'll be dazzled by the light on this beach.
• Plage de Lotu: Also close to Saint-Florent, this beach is accessible by boat, and seduces with its fine sand and clear waters, perfect for a lazy day.
• Plage de Bodri: Located not far from Île-Rousse, Bodri beach is a real gem, with its soft sand and turquoise waters. It's a favorite spot for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
• Plage de Ghjunchitu : Another treasure near Île-Rousse, this beach offers a magnificent setting for a sunny day by the sea, with all amenities nearby for optimum comfort.
• Plage de Calvi: This long sandy beach facing the citadel of Calvi is one of Corsica's most famous, much appreciated for its shallow waters and the many water sports available.
• Plage de Nonza : On Cap Corse, this black pebble beach, located beneath the picturesque village of Nonza, offers a unique visual spectacle and captivating stories, making it unforgettable. A little further north, don't miss Anse d'aliso!

Each of these beaches, whether for adventure, relaxation or discovery, promises a memorable experience under the Mediterranean sun, making northern Haute-Corse a prime destination for beach lovers.

Haute Corse: a family destination

Calvi Citadel: history and views

Visit the Citadelle de Calvi, a historic monument overlooking the bay and offering breathtaking sea views. Its rich history adds a cultural dimension to your stay. To make the experience even more rewarding, Calvi's tourist office offers games designed especially for children. These playful activities are designed to help them discover the town in a fun and interactive way, giving them a better understanding of local history and culture while having fun at the same time.

Boat excursions: Discover the coastline

Embark on a boat excursion to explore hidden coves and sites accessible only by sea. A unique way to discover the diversity of Corsican landscapes. In Calvi, our partner awaits you for a sunset aperitif at sea, a stroll in the gulf, or an intimate boat trip to Piana, Porto and Scandola.

Calvi, marina © Robert Palomba

Sunset at sea in Calvi

Road trip in Haute Corse

From Bastia to Cap Corse: the vineyard route

Take the vineyard route from Bastia to Cap Corse, an experience that's both gourmet and picturesque. This wine adventure typically begins in Bastia, where you can plan your itinerary according to your preferences. Several wineries along this route open their doors to visitors for tastings of local wines. Here's how you can organize your visit:

1. Plan ahead : Check the wineries' websites or contact the local tourist office for information on opening hours, reservations required, and current security measures.
2. Vineyard map: Get a map of the vineyards available on this route. This will help you plan your itinerary, which may include stops at wineries renowned for their winemaking practices and hospitality.
3. Tasting reservations : Many wineries require reservations for tastings, especially in high season. Book in advance to guarantee your place.
4. Guided tours: Some wineries offer guided tours where you can learn about the winemaking process, from vine to bottle. These tours often offer a more in-depth and personalized perspective of the local wine industry.
5. Tastings: Take advantage of the tastings on offer to discover the diversity of Corsican wines, known for their unique character. It's also an opportunity to talk to winemakers and learn more about the specificities of each grape variety and terroir.
6. Buying wine: If there's a wine you particularly like, most wineries offer bottles for sale. It's a great way to take home a souvenir of your trip.

By following these steps, you can make the most of the vineyard route from Bastia to Cap Corse, making each stop a rewarding and memorable discovery.

Would you like to discover a vineyard in an original way? We've come up with a tour for you, but on an electric scooter!

Artisans and villages itinerary

Discover local crafts by visiting the small villages of Haute Corse. Meet craftsmen who perpetuate traditions and offer unique products. For sites of particular interest, such as artisan workshops or cultural points of interest, brown tourist signs with symbols or descriptions can guide you. These signs are designed to help tourists identify places of special interest without difficulty.

Hiking and nature adventure tours

The Cape Douaniers Trail: between sea and mountains

The Sentier des Douaniers in Haute Corse is a spectacular coastal hike that winds along the island's northern coast, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean. This emblematic trail attracts nature lovers and hikers keen to discover Corsica's wild, unspoilt beauty.

1. Route: The trail follows the old paths used by customs officers to keep watch over the coast against smugglers. Stretching over several kilometers, it links isolated beaches, hidden coves, rocky capes and picturesque villages. The route can vary in difficulty, offering both easy and more demanding sections, depending on the areas crossed.
2. Viewpoints: Throughout the hike, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of azure waters, sheer cliffs and impressive rock formations. The viewpoints offer perfect opportunities for memorable photographs and moments of contemplation.
3. Fauna and flora : The Sentier des Douaniers is also a great place to observe local flora and fauna. Depending on the season, you may see a variety of seabirds, Mediterranean plants and perhaps even dolphins playing offshore.
4. Access and safety: Although the trail is well-maintained, we recommend that you wear good hiking boots and be prepared for the changing weather conditions typical of the Corsican coast. Some segments of the trail may be more exposed and require particular caution.
5. Stops and services : Along the way, you'll find villages where you can rest, refuel and even explore local attractions such as Genoese towers and ancient churches. These stops help to enrich the overall hiking experience.
6. Duration and planning: The length of the hike can vary considerably, depending on where you start and finish, and your own pace. It's possible to cover short sections in a day, or to plan a multi-day hike with accommodation along the way.

Hiking the Sentier des Douaniers is an exceptional way to discover the Corsican coastline, combining adventure, culture and relaxation. Whether you're looking for a day out or an in-depth exploration of the coast, this trail offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Mediterranean nature.

Barcaggio in Cap Corse © Robert Palomba

Lake Melo

Ascent to Lake Melo

Located in the heart of the Restonica valley, near Corte, Lac de Melo is nestled at an altitude of around 1,711 meters. This hike immerses you in an exceptional mountain setting, accessible to hikers of all levels thanks to recent facilities that make the route easier.

1. Itinerary : The ascent begins at the Bergerie de Grotelle parking lot, the most common access point to the Melo and Capitello lakes. The trail is well-marked and follows a rocky path winding through laricio pine forests and alongside refreshing streams. The climb is gradual but can include some steeper sections, particularly as you approach the lake.
2. Duration and difficulty: The hike to Lac de Melo generally takes between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on your pace. Although the route is considered moderate in terms of difficulty, it requires good physical condition and appropriate equipment, especially at the beginning and end of the season when trails can be partly snow-covered or slippery.
3. Landscapes and points of interest : On the way up, you'll have the opportunity to admire waterfalls, natural pools and panoramic views over the valley. The lake itself is a sight to behold, with its clear, calm waters surrounded by high rocky peaks, offering a peaceful setting for rest and picnics.
4. Fauna and flora : The area is home to a rich biodiversity, including various species of alpine flowers, marmots, mouflons and a variety of mountain birds. Keep your binoculars handy and remain discreet for a chance to observe these animals in their natural habitat.
5. Precautions and tips: It's best to set off early in the morning to avoid the crowds and afternoon heat. Make sure you wear sturdy hiking boots, take plenty of water, snacks and clothing suited to the variable weather conditions at altitude.
6. Protecting the environment: As Lac de Melo is located in a natural park, it's important to respect the environment by following the marked trails, leaving no trace of your passage and avoiding disturbing the local wildlife.

The ascent to Lac de Melo is a rewarding experience that combines mountain adventure and nature contemplation, offering every visitor unforgettable memories of majestic Corsica. If you're in good shape, you can continue walking for another 30 minutes to reach Lake Capitello at an altitude of 1930 m, where the view is sublime!

Discover Corsica's historical and cultural heritage

The Genoese Towers: sentinels of history

The Genoese towers scattered along the coast of Haute-Corse are relics of the past, once used to protect the island from invasion. Each of these towers offers a unique historical perspective and enriches the story of the island's coastal defenses:

• Tour de Nonza: Overlooking the village of Nonza on the west coast of Cap Corse, this tower offers a panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea and the black pebble beach below.
• Tour de Santa Maria della Chiappella : Located near Rogliano in the north of Cap Corse, this tower is an excellent example of the Genoese architecture typical of the region.
• Tour de Losse : Also known as Tour de L'Osse, this tower stands on the east coast of Cap Corse, overlooking the small fishing port of Centuri.
• Tour de Sénèque: Although a little more secluded and inland, this tower can be reached by hiking, and offers breathtaking views of Corsica's mountainous landscape.
• Tour d'Agnello : Located in Agnello, this tower is perched above the sea and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline, typical of Genoese defenses designed to watch and protect.

These towers are major points of interest for those seeking to understand the military and cultural history of Haute-Corse, offering visitors not only a glimpse of Genoese defensive architecture but also exceptional panoramic views.

The Moulin Mattei: a journey back in time

The restored Moulin Mattei, standing proudly on its hillside, offers a glimpse into Corsica's industrial history, with panoramic views over Cap Corse.

The best times to visit Haute Corse

July: climate and festivities

The month of July is considered the best time to discover Haute Corse, thanks to its warm, sunny climate and unique cultural effervescence. It's the perfect time to visit the Patrimonio Guitar Festival, a cultural rendez-vous and a must-see event that attracts internationally renowned artists and music lovers from all over the world. The festival is an essential part of the Corsican summer, offering memorable evenings under the stars. In addition to the music, many other local festivities take place across the island, celebrating Corsica's rich culture and traditions. July is undoubtedly the perfect time to immerse yourself in the festive and dynamic atmosphere of Haute Corse.

Practical tips for a successful stay of a week or more

Planning a road trip in Haute Corse is a sure-fire hit for those who want to explore the island at their own pace. For a successful stay of a week or more, our experts offer a few practical tips to optimize your travels:

1. Flexible itinerary : Although you may have a list of places to visit, keep your itinerary flexible. Corsica is full of surprises, like hidden panoramas or impromptu village festivals, that you won't want to miss.
2. Plan ahead: Corsican roads can be winding and narrow, especially in mountainous regions. If you want to enjoy the scenery without stress, allow for longer travel times than the GPS indicates.
3. Respect local regulations: Be aware of local traffic rules, which may include specific speed limits and parking regulations, especially in tourist areas and city centers.
4. Guides and navigation apps: Use reliable navigation apps and don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have to our local advisors, who can offer detailed advice on must-see attractions and hidden gems.