Which villages to visit in South Corsica
While Santa Giulia beach, Palombaggia, or the cliffs of Bonifacio are must-sees when you visit South Corsica, it is the villages that hold the soul of Corsica. In low season as in high season, you will enjoy the charm of these historic villages.
Inland, you will have the chance to discover the true treasures of the island: its villages, which deserve a closer look. These villages, with their unique charm, are the guardians of Corsican authenticity. This is why you should not miss discovering them during your stay.
L'Ospedale
Need a cool break during your stay in Porto-Vecchio? Less than 30 minutes from Porto-Vecchio, the village of L'Ospedale offers a breath of fresh air during the summer heat. Its view over the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio is breathtaking, stretching as far as Sardinia on clear days.
Heading inland, you will find many points of interest, such as the L'Ospedale lake. A little further on, don't miss the Piscia di u Ghjaddu waterfall and several hiking trailheads suitable for families.
Zonza
Continuing your drive from L'Ospedale, you will reach the village of Zonza, right in the heart of the Corsican natural park. Zonza offers a superb view of the Bavella needles and, on the horizon, a glimpse of the Coscione plateau. The village is also much loved for its friendly, timeless atmosphere. Locals and hikers mingle here in a relaxed mood.
In addition, you can take part in several outdoor activities (adventure park, via ferrata, canyoning, hiking) by heading to the Bavella site.
While in the area, be sure to visit the Viséo racecourse, the highest in Europe, which hosts family-friendly race days during the season.
Sartène
South of Propriano, you cannot miss Sartène, the most Corsican town in Corsica according to Prosper Mérimée. Sartène is a fortified town full of history. Once a genuine Genoese stronghold, Sartène benefited from a strategic defensive position against invaders. This ancestral aspect of the village is fully part of the identity of Sartène. Prehistory is also very present here: the Sartène region has yielded megalithic archaeological discoveries. If you are a history enthusiast, do not miss the sites of Filitosa, Cauria and Cucuruzzu.
Also, if you pass through Sartène during Holy Week, you must not miss the nighttime procession of the Catenacciu, symbolising Christ's ascent to Golgotha, a deeply moving moment.
Sainte-Lucie de Tallano
Not far from there, Sainte Lucie de Tallano is a village full of surprises. Its narrow streets and architecture make it one of the jewels of the Rizzanese valley. Culturally, the village is well known for its olive oil, which comes from centuries-old traditions.
A Festa di l'Oliu Novu, held on 28 and 29 May, celebrates olive growing. Over this short weekend, you can discover and learn how olive growers work through various demonstrations. The festival also celebrates Corsican culture, showcasing local dishes and artisans.
Monacia d'Aullène
Monacia d'Aullène lies between sea and mountains, in the southwest of the island. Besides its charming, picturesque village, you will find many trailheads that let you discover the surrounding landscapes.
On the coast, you will no doubt enjoy the famous walk to the Lion of Roccapina, a rock shaped by time that resembles a lion gazing out over the Mediterranean. Below it lies the sublime wild beach of Roccapina, the perfect spot to watch the sunset at the end of the day.
In the mountains, a multitude of trails are open. One of the most notable, the "heritage trail", will lead you to the "orii", rock shelters formed by erosion. They were once used as dwellings, silos or even tombs.
The old town of Bonifacio
The town of Bonifacio is so remarkable that it cannot be overlooked. Made up of two parts, the harbour and the citadel, Bonifacio also has its share of history. It was founded in the 9th century by the Count of Boniface. Originally, the town was built for its strategic advantage in case of invasion.
During your visit, wander through its many alleyways and you will plunge into the very heart of the town. I invite you to pay attention to its distinctive features: flying buttresses and arcades fitted with gutters that once collected rainwater, a particularly ingenious system for its time. Then, wearing closed shoes, head to the Pertusato lighthouse to admire the cliffs and the old town from further away. It is probably one of the best places in Corsica to watch the sunset. Below the town, take the Staircase of the King of Aragon; this little exploration in the heart of the cliffs is breathtaking.
The old town of Porto-Vecchio
Finally, let's turn to the old town of Porto-Vecchio. Like Bonifacio, it was built by the Genoese, who had the idea of erecting a citadel on high ground to enjoy a view of the horizon and anticipate the arrival of invaders. At the foot of the fort, the production of goods such as salt from the salt marshes made the town prosperous.
Today, the upper town has been entirely renovated. It is the ideal place to stroll with family or friends, to enjoy the nightlife and go shopping. You will also have a superb view over the gulf and the nearby salt marshes. On your way back down, be sure to take the path to the marina to sample local seafood specialities.
Not far from there, just 6 kilometres away, our residence The Toits de Santa Giulia is ideally located for exploring Porto-Vecchio and its surroundings. Besides, all the other villages we mentioned are less than an hour's drive away.
Our residence welcomes you throughout the season, offering exceptional hospitality and high-end rentals close to many points of interest: the beach of Santa Giulia, Palombaggia, Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio.
