The 14 things to do in Haute-Corse

Want to visit the Haute-Corse and go to the conquest of this island with many treasures? We found them for you!

South Corsica and Upper Corsica are two different departments that define the uniqueness of the island of Beauty together. The Haute-Corse is a natural territory, perfect mix of mountains, plains and beaches. Visiting Haute-Corse is a multi-layered, variable but always strong and beautiful land.

Yet, it should not be believed that the landscapes are repeated as the chorus of a song, on the contrary. Its peninsula, the Cap Corse, is also the most windy place on the island, subject to the invisible force almost all year round.

We have listed you the must-sees of the destination. Undoubted wonders that will leave you compelling memories of the Island of Beauty that has never been so well known.

1. Mount Monte Cinto

This is literally the top of Corsica, as Monte Cinto peaks at 2,706 metres above sea level. It is possible to hike or simply walk. The village of Asco is located at its feet, not far from the Asco-Stagnu mountain hut.

Even so reserved for seasoned walkers, hikes located on Monte Cinto require a rather important physical effort. However, there is still a place to see to kiss and visit the Haute-Corse in a blink of an eye!

2. Visit the city of Corte

The city of Corte, a scholar, remains very pleasant to live and discover. Located in the heart of a valley surrounded by high mountains, Corte stands out for its authentic side. Former capital of Corsica at the time of independence, it is still the historical and cultural centre.

With the help of the university that literally makes it relive every year, the city of Corte is alive and dynamic. Don’t forget to go there to discover the citadel on its rock, its old town and its merchants as well as the many hikes around.

Explore the Restonica Valley

By the south you will find the Restonica valley, a river that crosses Corte before continuing its way to the east. Along the road to Zurmulu (D623), you will then be able to observe magnificent views of the river and even get down there swimming.

This is not to be too frile because the water of a river is much cooler than the sea, but also much more pure. Also, there are some hiking or cycling tours starting in Corte and heading to the valley. Take the time to visit the Haute-Corse in its simplest device: its natural cradle.

3. Cross the Artisans road

The Artisans Route will guide you through the hinterland between Calvi and Île-Rousse, the ideal way to make you an idea of the Balagne. Discover all the talents of Corsican artisans, following a trace that will also show you the natural beauties of the island.

From the cutlery to the soap factory, to the lens, jewellery or ceramics, go to meet these Balagne craftsmen involved in the sustainability of their know-how. In addition to taking your eyes full, return the pockets filled with authentic memories!

4. Visit Bastia

Ville-capitale de la Haute-Corse and gateway to Cap Corse, Bastia envoûte by its history and landscapes. At the edge of the water, at the end of the mountain, Bastia appears as a festive and traditional. Discover the pleasure of exploring lively and colourful streets in this city crossed by Boulevard Paoli, itself parallel to the immense Place Saint-Nicolas.

Discover also La Citadelle de Bastia , built in 1380, and its charm remained intact despite the centuries. At the end of the day, stop at the Old Port and enjoy the unique view, sitting for example at the terrace of one of the many bars where you can enjoy a local wine.

5. Hiking with family

To visit the Haute-Corse as it should be, nothing like hiking. Between strong sensations and tranquility, it is an activity that suits your whole family. The Haute-Corse offers a wide range of marked trails that are suitable for any type of hikers.

So if you want to become real experts in the region and discover the most beautiful hiking trails in the family, we advise you to go on Explora Project , the agency that offers you unforgettable escapades. With their stay « Family hike in Corsica » , you will plunge into the heart of Upper Corsica. With the local guide, it is a 6-day programme for small onions that awaits you: breathtaking landscapes of one of the wildest shores of Corsica, warm cottage and memorable views. Unbelievable!

6. Explore the Cap Corse

Who would visit the Haute-Corse without taking the time to discover the Cap Corse? Northern Corsica Peninsula, Cap-Corse is unique. First, in addition to being the theatre of a wilder nature, it houses the wind of beautiful villages such as Erbalunga, Nonza or Centuri.

Then it is also a very old place whose track of men dates back to 6,000 years before J.-C... In fact, you will see many of the genoese towers still resistant to maintaining their monitoring of Mediterranean waters.

Make the Trail of the Douaniers

The Trail des Douaniers is borrowed by more than 40,000 walkers each year. It is an original way to discover the Corsican Peninsula. For 26 kilometers and for nearly 8 hours, go to the conquest of the north coast, and admire the many plant and animal species that are protected there.

You will also have the opportunity to see the eastern coast of Corsica, its northern tip (including the Giraglia Island) and its western, mountainous slope. So prepare to observe remarkable landscapes, but park on the way back, plan a way of locomotion! Small summer tip: in summer, you can reach your starting point by boat!

Discover the island of Giraglia

Giraglia Island is about 1.5 km from the north coast of Cap Corse. It is possible to see it from the shore of Barcaggio, a very old village with a small port. On this island, there is a lighthouse dating from the nineteenth century and a Genoese tower of the sixteenth century.

Very long inhabited, this is no longer the case today. This island is also classified as a natural reserve, as it allows many species to find refuge, some of which are endemic.

7. Visit the beautiful villages of Haute-Corse

Nonza

From the top of its promontory, Nonza is a pleasant village, a few centuries old already. Its houses, all equipped with old tiles, and sometimes stone walls, give it a charm of ancient very singular.

At its end, a paoline tower, called Nonza, from which you can embrace the whole horizon. To the right, a pebble beach and to the left, the Gulf of Saint-Florent. Moreover, in search of well, you can observe Saint-Florent from Nonza.

Sant’Antonino

Sant’Antonino is an incredible village in many points. Located 500 metres above sea level between Calvi and L’Île-Rousse, it offers a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea and the valley. In addition, its spiral form will allow you to discover all the houses that compose it, as well as its unique architecture. And for cause, this village is more than 12 centuries old!

It is in fact one of the oldest villages in Corsica, but despite all, it has managed to keep an undeniable charm.

Centuri

Just north of Cap Corse, find the village Centuri, where calm and authenticity reign. Charming fishing village with its many colored boats, it is actually a haven of peace. Amateurs and lovers of fish and walks will find their happiness there. Indeed, Centuri is a widely expanded village, offering you lots of opportunities for diving or strolling.

It is up to you to decide: are you rather sea or mountain?

8. Discover Calvi

Calvi is the second most attractive city in Corsica. So, to visit the Haute-Corse and not miss anything, this is an almost compulsory step! Indeed, Calvi’s reputation is no longer needed. His wild beauty will conquer you in the first sight.

Shared between its beautiful old town and marina, Calvi still has a few surprises. Don’t miss strolling through the Landry quay, go up to the Citadel and walk through the narrow streets full of history.

9. Crossing the Agriates Desert

Don’t get me wrong, the desert of the Agriates has nothing to do with the sandy idea of a desert. In reality, it is a rocky and mountainous area, covered with Corsican maquis. Unsurprisingly, this place houses many animal and plant species that live in peace.

Over 16,000 hectares, it extends between the south of Saint-Florent and Ostriconi, east of L’Île-Rousse. It is possible to cross it by car, by foot or to observe it from the sea. A single and unique route crosses it from one side, the D81, offering access to some of the most beautiful beaches in Haute-Corse.

10. Discover mountain lakes

Lands of beaches but mostly mountains, the Haute-Corse houses in its bosom, between two mountains, lakes. Very popular with the premises, these naturally pure water reserves guarantee a total disbursement. In the hollow of high-altitude valleys, the beauty of the place will surprise you and you will feel that time marks a break. They are all accessible by hiking:

• Corte: Lake Capitello and Lake Malo (high-value Restonica)
• Calacuccia: Lake Calacuccia (Nolo Valley)
• Corte: Lake Nino and its pozzines (Campus Plateau)

11. Visit Saint-Florent

Considered as the “Saint-Tropez Corse”, Saint-Florent is a must-see for visiting the Haute-Corse. Come and discover its adorable port, its historic center and its citadel.

Also, let yourself be tempted by one of the Corsican wines that you can sip on the terrace, facing the sea. The very chic atmosphere that scents Saint-Florent gives it an atmosphere that you will not find anywhere else. So take a break and enjoy!

12. Swimming on the most beautiful beaches

Visiting the Haute-Corse is not possible without the discovery of the beaches. As with its neighbour, Corsica-du-Sud, Haute-Corse has many beaches. Some of them are much more beautiful and are worth the detour. Whether you stop there for sight, fierceness or picnic, all the reasons are good.

You will be marvelled by the translucent waters and sometimes extraordinary seabeds that reserve these beaches:

• Santo-Pietro-di-Tenda: Saleccia beach
• Palasca: Ostriconi beach
• Macinaggio : Macinaghju beach
• Barcaggio : beach of Cala
• Saint-Florent: beach of Fiume Santu

13. Make a boat ride

Once you’ve made a tour of the beaches of Haute-Corse, you’ll find another must: the boat ride! Indeed, renting a boat in Haute-Corse , you offer the possibility of discovering the Corsican wonders while avoiding the tourist agitation.

If you don’t have the boat permit, you can use the services of a skipper who will reveal the most beautiful corners of the island of Beauty throughout the tour. With a bit of luck, you can even enjoy it to swim in the heart of magical places, the time of an unforgettable day with your loved ones.

14. Route of Patrimonio wines

Advice to amateur oenologists! In addition to the beauty of its landscapes, Corsica is also recognized for the quality of its wines, including Patrimonio wines. They also benefit from a Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée, the oldest in the territory.

It is possible to learn more about these vineyards by following a road, to discover the Corsican grape varieties. It is an opportunity to meet some 33 winemakers and taste the work done by these wine enthusiasts. From Casta to Farinole via Oletta, Lumio and Patrimonio itself, follow a trace that will enchant your taste buds!

How do I go to Upper Corsica?

To get to Haute-Corse, you have the option of borrowing the ferry or plane. Each of the two transports has its advantages and disadvantages.

Indeed, the ferry offers the opportunity to save money because you can travel with your vehicle (car, camper, bike...). But, by ferry is long, because according to the crossings, the journey lasts between 8 and 15 hours. You can leave Marseille , Toulon and Nice . That said, there are several ports in Upper Corsica: Calvi , Ile-Rousse and Bastia . So many starting points to visit the Haute-Corse.

Then you can choose to take the plane . Two airports are to be found in Haute-Corse: the main airport Bastia , secondary to Calvi . The aircraft also has advantages: the speed of the journey (less than 2 hours from Paris), the accessibility of car rentals in direct proximity and sometimes the rates. Indeed, comparisons of flights as Ulysses are at your disposal to find the best offers, at the best price at the best time, which is not for ferries...

Where to stay in Haute-Corse?

As with many other destinations, accommodation in Haute-Corse depends mainly on your personal expectations. Then, Bastia , Corte , Calvi , Saint-Florent and Ile-Rousse are the main cities of Haute-Corse. It is nevertheless possible to find a nice accommodation in mountainous lands or in the eastern plains. For example: Moltifao , Ghisonaccia , or Patrimonio .

You can choose to make camping, rent a Airbnb , stay in bed and breakfast or rent a hotel room. Of course the most popular cities are Bastia and Calvi and will best meet your expectations.

Since Corsica is a very tourist area, it is not the offers that are missing. In fact, do not hesitate to ask you a hotel comparison to benefit from the best prices. It is sometimes just a simple search to divide its housing budget by two.