Haute-Corse, as it’s known in French, is in the north of the island, as its name suggests, and it has some of Corsica’s most beautiful gems, starting with the northern capital, Bastia. This is not only one of the prettiest regions in France, but it also has a great many activities on offer. Whether you’re an adventurer, a beach bunny or a gourmet food lover, you’ll be glad you made the journey here!
If you arrive in Northern Corsica by plane or boat to Bastia, you can start your trip by exploring the town. Its old fortress, or ‘bastiglia’, which gave the town its name, has a great many surprises in store for you, as does the Old Port. Also not to be missed are the Governors’ Palace and the Romieu Gardens. Lastly, Bastia is also famous for its market, where you will be able to try local charcuterie like coppa and lonzu, as well as delicious Corsican cheeses.
Bastia is a perfect point of departure for a trip around the Cape of Corsica, which you can explore by motorbike or on foot, for more adventurous types and avid hikers. As you cross the spectacular landscape, you will pass numerous picturesque villages by the sea, before finally arriving in the magnificent town of Saint-Florent. Here you will discover another impressive fortress and a gourmet farmers’ market, as well as Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral and the local beaches. Divers will be in their element here! Just outside the town, there is some outstanding scenery and excellent opportunities for walks in the Agriates Desert.
Saint-Florent is also a good starting point for getting to hidden beaches like Lotu and Saleccia, which are difficult to reach but well worth the effort. Other coastal destinations popular with walkers and divers are L’Île-Rousse and, a bit further south, Calvi with its fortress. Hang around and enjoy the laidback lifestyle here, or keep moving and set off on an exploration of the nearby Bonifato Forest.
To get to Northern Corsica, you can get on a plane to Bastia Airport, or travel by ferry from Toulon, Nice or Marseille. Some ferry companies also offer crossings that connect mainland Europe directly to Calvi and L’Île-Rousse.
Hiring a car to get around the island is highly recommended, and there are many places to do this in Bastia. So what are you waiting for? Have a great trip to Northern Corsica!