With the sea, mountains and the Corsican countryside, Porto-Vecchio boasts magnificent cultural and natural heritage, and is the perfect place for relaxation and leisure.
On the south-east coast of Corsica, Porto-Vecchio is located in an idyllic natural setting, making it a very popular seaside resort. With walks and boat trips, leisure activities and history, sunbathing on dream beaches and lively night life under the stars, the former Genoese city has plenty to offer.
Originally a citadel built in the 16th century by the Genoese, Porto-Vecchio boasts a rich history, including old bastions, gates and stone towers. Among them is the Bastion de France, which was once used to watch over boats to thwart any seaborne invasion, nowadays has the more peaceful role of hosting various exhibitions in high season.
Sometimes nicknamed the Corsican Saint-Tropez, Porto-Vecchio has a bustling old town, centred around Place de la République and the Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste. The little cobbled streets are full of chic boutiques, restaurants, cafes and trendy bars, not to mention ice cream parlours. When night falls, the city comes alive to the sound of the many nightclubs, some of which are open-air. Below the ramparts, the marina recalls Porto-Vecchio's past as a little fishing village.
An abundance of nature can be found right on the city's doorstep. The many fine sandy beaches, such as Cala Rossa, Palombaggia and Santa Giulia, are perfect for taking it easy and getting away from it all. Standing on a pink-tinged cliff, Port-Vecchio is also surrounded by colourful mountain ranges. Among them is the protected area of Alta Rocca, which has a wealth of animal and plant life, as well as a varied craft and religious heritage, from bakeries and mills to little Roman churches. The surrounding countryside, dotted with picturesque villages, is also perfect for lovely walks or bike rides.
Though the nearest train station is just over 60 miles away, there are plenty of ways to get to Porto-Vecchio. By air, Figari airport is just under 15 miles to the south-west and offers links to major cities across Europe. By boat, Porto-Vecchio port offers sailings to Marseilles and the Italian cities of Naples, Palau and La Spezia. By land, there are several road links between Porto-Vecchio and other large Corsican towns, including Bastia, Bonifacio and Ajaccio.
In its exceptional natural setting, Porto-Vecchio, also known as the "city of salt" after its salt marshes, is certainly not short of a touch of spice!
