You notice it right away. The towns bustling with tourists, almost bursting at the seams with visitors. Corsica is a fantastic destination, but it’s hard to ignore that the island also attracts an overwhelming number of tourists during the summer months, especially in towns like Bonifacio, Calvi, and Ajaccio. But you’ll also notice something else right away: the tranquility, the mountains, and the fragrant maquis as soon as you venture beyond the towns. So why not head out and explore where it all comes together?
Do something different – visit Corsica’s east coast and discover peace and adventure.
On the west coast, you’ll find towns like Ajaccio, Piana, and Sartène, all of which often top lists of must-see attractions on Corsica. In the southern part of the island, towns like Bonifacio, Propriano, and Porto-Vecchio are hugely popular tourist destinations. Looking to the north, you’ll come across Bastia, Calvi, and L’Île-Rousse, which are also well-loved. But if you turn your gaze to the eastern part of Corsica, you won’t find many well-known tourist attractions.
So, are there no attractions on Corsica’s east coast?
No, there aren’t any major attractions, but just listen to what you can experience here.
The eastern coast of Corsica may not have any of the big, headline-grabbing attractions, but there’s still so much to see. It’s easy to get caught up in the hunt for top attractions when traveling. Of course, there’s often a good reason why certain spots become famous, but there’s usually so much more to discover beyond the must-sees. The same is true for Corsica.
Read on to discover five things I love about Corsica’s east coast.
The beautiful beaches at eastern Corsica
On the east coast, you’ll find some amazing beaches that rival those in the Caribbean. The water is crystal clear and turquoise blue. If you’re traveling with children, there are plenty of safe spots where kids can swim without worrying about strong currents or big waves. For adults, the water is far from boring, offering plenty of opportunities for activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, sea kayaking, surfing, and more.
What makes the east coast extra special is the frequent opportunity to find beaches that aren’t overcrowded with tourists. And if you’re into skinny dipping – swimming without a swimsuit – the east coast is also the perfect place for that.
Explore the small mountain villages of eastern Corsica
If you’ve rented a car or perhaps driven to Corsica, we highly recommend visiting one of the many small villages, especially those nestled in the mountains. You’ll experience a completely different sense of peace and atmosphere compared to the small towns along the coast.
For example, we drove to Chiatra without knowing anything about the village, and it turned out to have the most spectacular views, both eastward and westward. And then there was a tranquility that’s hard to describe – almost an awe-inspiring calm. We found ourselves speaking in hushed tones, whereas in one of the coastal towns, we’d likely have been a bit more boisterous.
Don’t miss the many hikes, waterfalls, and rivers
The mountains of Corsica are ever-present – raw, beautiful, and irresistibly alluring. If you’re up for a good hike, Corsica offers countless opportunities. Trails range from short and easy walks suitable for children to longer, more challenging adventures. One thing is certain: there’s definitely a hike that’s perfect for you.
After a long hike, when you’re hot and sweaty, there’s nothing better than a refreshing dip. Take advantage of the many rivers, lakes, and waterfalls scattered across the island – they’re the perfect way to cool off and recharge.
Experience the Wonderful Food & Drink of Eastern Corsica
In our family, we love good food, so of course, I have to share some recommendations. It’s easy to be tempted by the larger towns when seeking culinary adventures, as they often offer more restaurants and options than the smaller villages. However, the truly authentic experiences are often not found in the bigger cities.
Instead of chasing a food adventure in a major town, we recommend venturing into one of the smaller, less touristy villages, which are plentiful on the east coast. This is where you’ll find the authentic atmosphere and the real flavors of Corsica. You can enjoy local dishes while soaking in the genuine Corsican vibe.
For example, head to a small restaurant in one of the coastal villages and try one of the many exciting seafood dishes they offer. And while you’re at it, why not pair your meal with a glass of Corsican wine, produced at one of the east coast’s local vineyards?
Discover the Historic Town of Aleria
If you’re fascinated by archaeological finds and excavations, the town of Aleria is an absolute must-visit. Although only a few remnants remain of the 8,000-year-old Greek settlement, excavations are still ongoing, and new discoveries continue to emerge from the ground. For history enthusiasts, exploring the ruins of the Roman city that once stood here is definitely worthwhile.
At the harbor in Aleria, you’ll find a fort built by the Genoese in the late 16th century to monitor the port. In addition to the fort, there’s also a museum showcasing fascinating archaeological finds, offering a deeper glimpse into the area’s rich history.
