
Not without reason, Calvi has earned its reputation as a jewel of the Mediterranean, captivating visitors with enchanting beauty, vibrant atmosphere, centuries-old heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine. Nestled on the northwest coast of Corsica, this popular seaside resort is also the island’s top spot for longer stays granting holidaymakers a wealth of diverse attractions.
Apart from its iconic 13th-century Genoese Citadel overlooking a turquoise bay, a bustling marina, and atmospheric narrow alleys filled with trendy restaurants and boutiques, you will have access to spectacular unspoilt nature surrounding the town. Interesting cultural activities are also plentiful in the sunny Balagne region that holds ties to prominent figures such as Christopher Columbus or Pasquale Paoli.
In the first section of this article, I share practical information and useful tips to aid your travel planning. Among other elements, you will find details on the best transportation options to reach Calvi, efficient ways to navigate the area, and recommendations for top-rated hotels and restaurants.
The post’s second part highlights Calvi’s 14 best attractions that will ensure your Corsican experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Get ready to explore, discover, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
This page contains affiliate links meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Click here to learn more.

HOW TO GET TO CALVI?
You can arrive in Calvi by plane or by ferry. Luckily, Calvi has a small airport that receives regular year-round flights from Marseille, Nice, and Paris, and seasonal connections from many other European destinations. You can consult a complete directory including airlines and dates. When researching your options also check other airports, in Bastia, Ajaccio, and Figari, as they provide a wider range of transportation services.
Ferries to Corsica operate from several French and Italian ports, you may view a detailed list in this post. As the Calvi harbour no longer receives passenger ferries or cargo ships pick as your arrival place one of Calvi’s nearest ports- Ile Rousse or Bastia. Getting to Calvi from Ajaccio, on the other hand, will take you a little longer (around 3 hours).

RENTING A CAR
If you travel to one of Corsica’s airports—Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, or Figari—you can rent a car for the period of your stay. Most major rental companies have offices at the airports and in key cities across the island. However, I strongly recommend booking in advance not only to secure a better price (the costs soar in high season) but also to ensure that you get a vehicle that suits your specific requirements.
Rent your car in Corsica – check out Renatlcars.com to find the best deals

CAN YOU VISIT CALVI WITHOUT A CAR?
If you are planning a car-free holiday in Corsica, Calvi should be high on your agenda. In fact, I have included it in the list of the best Corsican locations for a stay without a vehicle. Without a car, your options will be limited due to the lack of extensive public transportation but you will find numerous exciting guided tours and activities that will satisfy diverse preferences and needs. What is more, being fairly compact, the town is easily walkable with most of its main attractions accessible in under 30 minutes.

GETTING AROUND CALVI
Calvi is a relatively small town with a population of under 6000 inhabitants. Its key attractions are centrally positioned near the marina and may be easily reached on foot.
Calvi’s vast sandy beach can be accessed via a wooden walkway leading alongside the pine forest from the city. If you prefer to drive, several car parks provide spaces behind the beach. In season, you might be charged a parking fee.
Alternatively, you can take the popular beach tram that serves the entire bay stopping at Calvi l’Alzeta Suprana, Calvi U Pinetu, Calvi E Padule, and Calvi Talle.
BOOK A SUNSET BOAT TRIP TO PUNTA REVELLATA
Join a sunset boat excursion to the peninsula of Revellata from Calvi with a swimming break at the Alga beach. Savour a refreshing appetizer watching the Mediterranean sun set beyond the rocky hills.

MOTORCYCLE AND E-BIKE
Exploring Calvi on two wheels is a great way to experience the area, giving you the freedom to spend as much time as you wish at a given location. Several centrally located rentals provide access to scooters (around €50 per day for a 50cc), e-bikes (€45 per day) and road bikes (from €20 per day’s use).
BOOK A QUAD BIKE TOUR OF CALVI
Hop aboard a quad bike on a 2-hour-long scenic quad bike tour of the Calvi region to discover the picturesque corners of Balagne with a visit to the Chapel of Notre Dame de la Serra. The activity is suitable for holders of the driver’s license.

LONG DISTANCE TRAINS
The famous coastal train connects Calvi and Ile Rousse with stopovers at some of the most beautiful places in Balagne. Additionally, long-distance trains run from Calvi to Bastia and Ajaccio. Check timetables on https://cf-corse.corsica/horaires/ or https://www.corsicabus.org/, and purchase tickets at the station, Gare de Calvi, or directly on the train.
BUSES
Bus connections from Calvi service two routes, Calvi- Bastia via Ile Rousse and Ponte Leccia, and Calvi- Calenzana. Beaux Voyages details timetables, fares, and departure places on https://www.corsicar.com/en/autocars-lignes-regulieres-autocar-corse_11.html. If you wish to explore other parts of Corsica by bus, Rapides Bleus offers connecting services from Bastia to Porto Vecchio via the principal towns of the East Coast. Consult the official site for details https://www.rapides-bleus.com/.

HOW MANY DAYS IN CALVI?
Brimming with a wide range of exciting attractions, Calvi is considered one of the best Corsican locations for a longer stay. 7-10 days will grant you ample time to experience the town’s key highlights and even allow you to explore the region. If you only have a couple of days to spare in this pretty resort, rest assured that you will also be able to discover its greatest treasures. From the compilation below, only pick the activities that immediately spark your excitement, not forgetting to simply stroll around Calvi, soaking up its seductive allure.

IS CALVI A SAFE DESTINATION?
Calvi, just like the rest of the island, is a safe and inviting place offering a truly relaxing environment for travellers. Visitors can confidently explore its charming streets, enjoy the glorious beach, and move freely without significant safety concerns. Combined with its magical setting, the town’s welcoming atmosphere and a comforting sense of security ensure a great location for leisurely vacations. Worry-free, you will appreciate the opportunity to fully unwind.
BOOK A SNORKELLING BOAT TRIP TO REVELLATA PENINSULA
Head out to sea on a 2.5-hour-long snorkelling boat tour to discover the Mediterranean’s rich underwater world. Admire the rugged scenery of the Revellata Peninsula and its wildlife. Snorkel equipment is provided.

WHERE TO STAY IN CALVI?
- La Villa Calvi (€€€)
- Hotel Corsica & Spa Serena (€€)
- Hotel L’Acquale (€€)
- Hotel Onda (€)
- Best Western Hotel Casa Bianca (€)
- Hotel le Saint Erasme (€)
- Le Mariana (€)
- Camping La Pinède (€)

WHERE TO EAT?
- U CASANU – Delicious homemade food, fresh local ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere. There is no outside terrace but the interior is air-conditioned.
- RESTAURANT SANTA MARIA – Quality Corsican dishes offered on the pretty church square. Booking ahead in high season is recommended.
- LA LICORNE – Mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine served right on the beach with sublime views of the Citadel and Calvi Bay.
- A CASETTA – A lovely place to share a generous platter of Corsican charcuterie and cheese with first-rate views of the Calvi harbour. Book ahead as space is limited.
- LA CABANE DU PECHEUR – Fresh, simple seafood directly from the fishermen served on the beach in Galeria, a short drive from Calvi. Informal and friendly.
- LA BOHEME – A centrally located restaurant overlooking the port with quality French dishes and a warm ambience.
- U NICHJARETU – A restored stone bergerie serving top-quality grilled meat. Breathtaking coastal views from the terrace light up at sunset. 10 km southwest of Calvi.
- A FUNTANA – Your stop for an excellent pizza and seafood pasta. Welcoming staff and reasonable prices.
- LA TABLE DI MA – A renowned chef creates unique flavours marrying tradition with innovation in a Michelin-starred restaurant. This gourmet venue is in Lumio.
- ILE DE BEAUTE – A popular place to enjoy a light lunch washed down by a glass of local rose directly on the quay.

CALVI’S HISTORIC BACKGROUND
Calvi’s history traces a fascinating trajectory from its prehistoric roots to the modern-day tourist boom. Initially inhabited by Neolithic hunter-gatherers, the region evolved with the Bronze Age agro-pastoral communities and subsequent Phoenician and Roman influences. Widespread olive cultivation guaranteed wealth and prosperity, resulting in the creation of a small fishing port in the place of Calvi’s basse ville.
The fading Roman hegemony gave rise to notorious pirate raids and encouraged rivalries and feuds among the emerging Corsican Noble Lords. The successive Pisan reign stabilized the territory, marking a period of growth and development. The town’s strategic importance emerged in 1268 when Lord Giovaninello de Loreto erected a citadel named Calvi.
Under the Genoese rule, after the battle of Meloria in 1284, Calvi became a prosperous and affluent trading centre. It even earned the famous motto Civitas Calvis Semper Fidelis—always faithful—to mark the local population’s loyalty to Genoa. In the following years, the town resisted French and Turkish sieges and remained dedicated to Genoa during the Wars of Independence.
In the aftermath of France’s acquisition in 1768, grappling with malaria and economic hardships, Calvi experienced periods of decline and transformation. In World War II it served as a military resistance post, later opening its gates to the Second Foreign Parachute Regiment. Today, Calvi thrives as a popular tourist destination with diversified economic activities including agriculture, fishing, and wine production.
14 BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN CALVI

1. VISIT THE CITADEL
Upon your arrival in Calvi, you will immediately be confronted with the town’s principal attraction, its glorious historic Citadel rising tall from the sea. A testament to Corsica’s rich history it was established by local nobility in the mid-13th century before being entrusted to Genoese control in 1280. Two centuries later, the fortress’ defensive capabilities were enhanced and new fortifications were erected to bolster its strength. From 1544 to 1548 the Sampiero barracks served as the official residence of the Genoese governor. Today, the Citadel houses the esteemed 2nd Foreign Parachute Regiment of the French Foreign Legion.
CITADEL HIGHLIGHTS
- From the Citadel’s ramparts, admire breathtaking views of the azure bay framed by Corsica’s majestic mountains.
- At Piazza d’Armes, the Citadel’s central square, explore the ochre-hued, baroque-style Cathédrale St-Jean-Baptiste. Originally founded in the 13th century, it was badly damaged three hundred years later and subsequently rebuilt in the form of a Greek cross.
- Inside the Cathedral admire the altarpiece by Barbagelata (1498) depicting the Annunciation, the statue of Christ des Miracles (Black Christ) associated with miraculous events of 1555, a 16th-century statue of the Virgin of the Rosary, used in processions, and an 18th-century gilded wood preaching pulpit honouring John the Baptist and the Evangelists.
- Discover the remains of Maison Colomb located north of the main square, a place believed to be Christopher Columbus’ family home. It’s worth noting that the adventurer’s origins continue to spark heated debates among scholars.
- Stroll to the east side of the Citadel to Maison Pacciola known to witness Napoleon Bonaparte’s visit in 1793.
- Visit the 16th-century chapel Oratoire St-Antoine housing a lovely tryptic evoking the Crucifixion.

2. ENJOY LUNCH IN THE PORT
To experience Corsican gastronomy in a vibrant atmosphere, basking in warm Mediterranean sunshine, stop for lunch in the marina. Quay Landry, the town’s colourful waterfront lined with bars and restaurants is where the locals meet to exchange daily gossip. Join them for a plate of freshly caught seafood accompanied by a glass of the Balagne rosé, and watch fishing boats and luxury yachts come in and out of the port. In the evening, Calvi’s harbour fills up with visitors drawn to its relaxed, festive atmosphere, stunning views of the Genoese citadel, and a promise of long nights spent chatting with friends and sipping cocktails in music-filled cafés.
BOOK WINE TASTING AND A VINEYARD TOUR WITH A PICNIC
Try delicious Corsican wines on this 3-hour-long vineyard and cellar tour followed by a picnic of fresh local produce. You may choose an option with pickup at your location.

3. SHOP IN CALVI’S BOUTIQUES
Calvi’s historic old town nestled at the foot of the Citadel is a great place to shop for take-home gifts. Rue Clémenceau, a buzzing narrow street behind the seafront is dotted with small quirky boutiques where you will find conventional souvenirs as well as typical Corsican products.
Apart from traditional articles such as olive oil, charcuterie, cheese, local wine, homemade condiments, or the maquis-flavoured honey, look out for artisanal goods crafted by talented local artists. Jewellery, ceramics and pottery, glass art items, traditional knives, and decorative objects may be purchased directly from the producers in their workshops. Check out Les Artisanes de la Citadelle to find authentic, original products.
For daily groceries, fresh fruit and vegetables, and other regional delicacies head to Marché couvert de producteurs, a small farmers’ covered market.

4. DISCOVER CALVI’S HISTORICAL AND RELIGIOUS MONUMENTS
Apart from its fabulous Citadel, Calvi boasts other interesting historical and religious monuments worth your detour. Considering the town’s compact size, visiting these points of interest can be easily integrated into your itinerary.
- Stroll to Place Christophe-Colomb near the Citadel’s entryway for a photo opportunity with the adventurer’s bust immortalized on the fortress’s wall. Admire stunning views of the fortress extending from the hill.
- Explore Eglise Ste-Marie-Majeure at Rue Clémenceau behind the waterfront. Founded in 1774, the church houses a 15th-century painting of the Immaculate Conception.
- At the end of Quai Landry, the marina’s chic seafront, discover Tour de Sel, a historic lookout post that also served as a salt storehouse.

5. RELAX ON THE CALVI BEACH
One of the main reasons that Calvi receives a faithful following of repeat visitors is its spectacular sandy beach. Imagine a stunning 6-kilometre-long sandy bay fringed by a fragrant pine forest with water so clear you can spot colourful fish playing around your feet. Shelving very gently, it suits families with young children and the elderly. Views from the shore are equally mesmerizing- the Calvi Citadel, rising from the azure sea in all its glory marks the northwestern horizon sheltering the gulf.
BEACH FACILITIES
Easily accessible from the town, whether by foot or car, the beach offers visitors a diverse range of amenities and activities. Watersports enthusiasts will find an exciting array of options, including paddling, jet-skiing, canoeing, scuba diving, and sailing, ensuring an action-packed coastal experience. Numerous restaurants and beach bars dot the coastline, serving tasty meals and refreshing cocktails to fuel maritime adventures. Those seeking comfort may rent a sun lounger at one of the venues.
As you move further from the city, the cove gradually becomes wilder and less frequented, offering a more secluded environment for visitors who prefer a quieter seaside retreat. It is also heaven for dog owners who may stroll with their pets for miles along the pristine shores. Punta Caldanu, the beach’s easternmost peninsula, with its giant granite boulders and intimate coves, encloses the Calvi’s sublime bay.
CALVI ON THE ROCKS FESTIVAL
If you happen to visit Calvi in July, you will have a chance to participate in one of Corsica’s most joyful events- the annual Calvi On The Rocks music festival. Each year, for six days, the beach transforms into an open-air dance venue with electronic music, but events also take place in other locations including the Citadel and the town centre. Corsica’s youth loves this fun celebration flocking to Calvi from various parts of the island.
BOOK A PRIVATE SPEEDBOAT TOUR
Cruise around Calvi Bay on a private speedboat with your personal skipper. Stop to swim and snorkel at the Alga beach and savour a Corsican aperitif watching the sunset. For groups of up to 12 people.

6. VISIT NOTRE DAME DE LA SERRA
For the best photo opportunities in the area, visit Notre Dame de la Serra, a truly beautiful spot where on a rocky outcrop dominating Calvi a statue of the Virgin Mary overlooks the entire bay. Next to the strikingly white figure is a historic chapel built in the place of a formerly-destroyed 15th-century sanctuary. An important place of pilgrimage, it hosts annual celebrations on September 8th.
To reach Notre Dame de la Serra by car take D81B from Calvi turning left at the fork near Punta Revellata. From the town centre, it’s only 4.5 kilometres making it a pleasant 10-minute drive. At the foot of the monument, you will find a small parking area where you can leave your vehicle. To partake in a fun adventure, you can also book a guided quad bike trip to Notre Dame de la Serra and other points of interest in the region.
BOOK A QUAD BIKE TOUR OF CALVI
Hop aboard a quad bike on a 2-hour-long scenic quad bike tour of the Calvi region to discover the picturesque corners of Balagne with a visit to the Chapel of Notre Dame de la Serra. The activity is suitable for holders of the driver’s license.

7. TRY LOCAL WINES
Oenophiles will appreciate Calvi’s delicious wines known for their exceptional quality and faithfulness to their unique terroir. Produced following strict AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) regulations, they perfectly reflect granite and limestone soils exposed to the region’s sunny microclimate with marine influences. Used varieties include Niellucciu, Sciaccarellu, Grenache, and Vermentinu, whereas the vineyards within the appellation now all practice organic (or biodynamic) farming.
Calvi’s restaurants offer regional wines to accompany local dishes but you may also set out on a day trip to visit the appellation’s most prominent cellars (Domaine Alzipratu Clos Colombu, Clos Landry, Domaine Orsini) for a tasting. In the Corsica Wine Guide, I present the best estates with recommendations for the most interesting wines to try. Alternatively, you can join a guided wine-tasting tour of the Calvi region with a picnic in the vines.
GUIDED WINE-TASTING TOURS IN CALVI
- Wine tasting and a vineyard tour with a picnic. Try delicious Corsican wines on this 3-hour-long vineyard and cellar tour followed by a picnic of fresh local produce.
- Wine tasting and a vineyard tour with a picnic (pickup at your location). Discover excellent local wines, enjoy a winery and vineyard tour, and savour Corsican specialities on a 4-hour-long gourmet trip. Transport from your preferred location is included in the price.
Wine lover’s companion for a trip to Corsica – Grab your ebook!
Corsica Wine Guide – from vine to glass
✓ 9 wine regions
✓ 74 producers
✓ 125 wines

8. EXPLORE PUNTA REVELLATA
3 kilometres west of Calvi you will find Punta Revellata, a glorious natural landmark harbouring wild Mediterranean nature, turquoise coves and dramatic rocky cliffs. This beautiful headland is a popular location for relaxing strolls, waterfront picnics, and snorkelling adventures. Away from the city’s hustle and bustle, it’s a great place that will suit lovers of the outdoors.
The peninsula’s west side is more rugged with 100-meter-tall cliffs plunging into the sea. Its eastern face is more tamed, boasting a gently sloping coastline dotted with attractive small beaches. The Revellata’s tip is crowned by a 19th-century lighthouse and oceanographic studies research centre.
To visit this untouched promontory on foot, follow an easy 9-kilometer trail starting on D81B. On the way back from the lighthouse, trail the eastern shore where you may stop for a leisurely break by the sea.
Another exciting option to explore Revellata is a boat tour of the peninsula with a snorkelling break. The seabed is rich in diverse marine life waiting to be discovered. Couples, on the other hand, will love a romantic sunset boat trip with an aperitif and evening swimming in water lit by the day’s fading light.
BOOK YOUR ACTIVITY
- Snorkelling boat trip to Pointe de la Revellata from the port in Calvi. Embark on a 2.5-hour-long snorkel adventure to discover the Mediterranean’s rich underwater world. Admire the rugged scenery of the Revellata Peninsula and its wildlife. Snorkel equipment is provided.
- Sunset boat trip to Punta Revellata from Calvi. Join a sunset boat excursion to the peninsula of Revellata with a swimming break at the Alga beach. Savour a refreshing appetizer watching the Mediterranean sun set beyond the rocky hills.
- Scuba diving trip for beginners in the Gulf of Calvi. Hop on a speedboat for an introductory dive with an instructor to explore fascinating marine life. No previous experience is necessary although this activity is not suitable for children under the age of 8 and people with heart or respiratory problems.

9. ENJOY A BOAT TRIP TO SCANDOLA AND CALANCHES DE PIANA
A boat tour to the Scandola Nature Reserve and Calanches de Piana stands out as the most exciting experience when exploring the Calvi region. This extraordinary sea adventure offers visitors an unmissable opportunity to witness one of Corsica’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. West coast’s unique geological formations inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List epitomize the untouched, raw beauty of Corsica’s wildest corners where rare examples of endemic flora and fauna thrive in their natural habitat.
Amid the Scandola’s rocky chaos is Girolata, a charming solitary village accessible only by boat or on foot, where time seems to have stopped, preserving the small port’s nostalgic, peaceful ambience. Opposite, red porphyry walls of the Calanches guard rocky caves where supremely transparent water reveals the unmatched wealth of underwater treasures.
Most boat excursions offer a tour of both locations, include swimming breaks, a visit to Girolata, and sometimes even provide onboard music and commentary. Used vessels vary from fast 12-person semi-rigids able to navigate close to the cliffs to comfortable tourist boats with shaded areas and toilets. Whichever your preference, the experience is unforgettable and will grant you lasting memories for years to come.
BEST BOAT TOURS TO SCANDOLA AND CALANCHES DE PIANA
- 6-hour Scandola, Girolata and Calanches de Piana boat tour. Embark on a journey to the most revered landscapes in Corsica. Explore the magnificent rocky formations of the Scandola Reserve with a stop in Girolata. Admire the porphyry cliffs of Calanches de Piana.
- 4-hour Scandola Reserve boat trip. Enjoy a Scandola tour aboard a 12-seater departing from the port of Calvi. View the imposing Citadel before exploring the rocky caves of the reserve. An aperitif is included in the price.
- Scandola Reserve scenic boat tour. Set out on a 4-hour-long boat excursion to Scandola- explore the caves, cliffs, and rocky islets. Live commentary is offered in various languages.
- Private boat tour of Scandola Nature Reserve. Enjoy the unforgettable experience of visiting Scandola, a volcanic UNESCO site, on a comfortable boat with your private skipper. Swim in one of the most beautiful places in Corsica.

10. SET OUT ON A COASTAL TRAIN JOURNEY
Embark on a scenic journey through Balagne’s glorious coastline aboard the charming Trinichellu train, connecting Calvi and Île-Rousse. This leisurely tram meanders along the coast, stopping at some of the region’s most picturesque beach destinations, offering travellers a unique perspective of Corsica’s maritime landscape.
The entire journey lasts about 45 minutes, but you can hop off at any stop to enjoy a refreshing break at one of the inviting aquamarine coves. As you travel, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Mediterranean landscape complemented by the intoxicating Mediterranean scents entering the carriage through large open windows. The train operates several times a day, and tickets can be conveniently purchased onboard. Check timetables at https://cf-corse.corsica/horaires/.
6 best locations to visit include: Sant’Ambroggio beach (great for families with children), Argeno beach (overlooked by a medieval citadel in Algajola), Marine de Davia beach (peaceful and secluded), Ghjunchitu beach (known for its azure water and white sand), Bodri beach (Caribbean-style turquoise cove), Ile Rousse beach (stylish Riviera-like waterfront).

11. TOUR THE VILLAGES OF BALAGNE
The region of Balagne is famous for its picturesque hilltop villages. Strada di l’Artigiani, or the Craftsmen’s Route, offers visitors an authentic Corsican experience through charming Mediterranean hamlets. Winding along narrow streets and sunny squares, this relaxing tourist trail showcases traditional architecture and ancient monuments while highlighting the area’s living arts and crafts traditions.
In the hills behind Calvi, travellers can explore innumerable artisan workshops across stunning villages like Sant’Antonino, Pigna, Speloncato, or Monticello, Other places, including Calenzana or Zilia, are known for excellent local products such as cheese, olive oil, honey, or wine. Every turning of the route reveals a sublime panorama of the island’s fertile northern territory, also known as the Garden of Corsica. To fully embrace Balagne’s authentic spirit and connect with history, dedicate an entire day to this lovely cultural experience.
Wine lover’s companion for a trip to Corsica – Grab your ebook!
Corsica Wine Guide – from vine to glass
✓ 9 wine regions
✓ 74 producers
✓ 125 wines

12. SWIM IN THE NATURAL POOLS OF FANGO
Located 45 minutes from Calvi, the Fango River is Corsica’s hidden UNESCO Biosphere Reserve treasure. Nestled at the foot of Paglia Orba’s northern wall, this pristine oasis of unspoilt wilderness offers an extraordinary aquatic playground. Wild swimmers and adventure-seeking families will delight in Fango’s emerald river pools, easy canyoning routes, and surprisingly warm, crystal-clear waters.
Along the torrent, you will find numerous beautiful locations where natural bathtubs, rocky slides, and cascading waterfalls will grant you hours of playful water recreation. Best-known places include the Ponte Vecchiu bridge, Ile du Fango, or Pont de Tuarelli. Most visitors, though, set out on a river hike down the stream to find their ideal private hideout. Appropriate water shoes, drinking water, and a hat protecting you from the sun are indispensable.
In Fango’s tranquil delta near the village of Galeria, you may also enjoy a family-friendly kayaking excursion. The UNESCO-listed reserve is inhabited by numerous indigenous flora and fauna species, including freshwater turtles, making it a great place for children.

13. EXPLORE FIGARELLA VALLEY
While Fango’s natural pools are cherished by families, youth, and adventurers, the majestic Figarella Valley attracts more seasoned explorers and outdoors lovers looking for a more solitary and peaceful experience in nature. Nestled in the Bonifato forest, just 20 kilometres from Calvi, this stunning destination offers a variety of attractions, from scenic hiking trails in the woods, including sections of the famous GR20 and Mare è Monti, to crystal-clear river pools surrounded by granite boulders and hundred-year-old trees.
The area also provides an ideal setting for picnics, swimming, and photography, with the river’s natural bathtubs that delight visitors of all ages. In season, at Auberge de la Foret near the car park, you can enjoy tasty traditional dishes composed of fresh local produce. To get there, follow the D81-D251 route from Calvi.

14. DISCOVER DESERT DES AGRIATES
Desert des Agriates, a 16,000-hectare expanse of unspoiled Corsican wilderness, lies east of Calvi, at the edge of the northern Balagne region. This granitic uninhabited territory, covered in the aromatic maquis, harbours some of Corsica’s most stunning beaches. Iconic coves such as Lotu, Saleccia, and Ghignu offer pristine, powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
The area’s 37 km coastal trail, Le Sentier des Douaniers, is a top attraction for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Although flat and easy, this scenic route should be ideally undertaken outside of July and August when temperatures can be particularly high.
Visitors can explore this rugged paradise on foot, in a 4×4 vehicle, by bicycle, boat, or kayak. The most popular options include boat tours from Saint Florent or Ile Rousse, as well as organized all-terrain car trips from Calvi.
BOOK YOUR SEA TRIP TO THE AGRIATES
- Saleccia and Lotu beach boat trip from Ile Rousse. Hop on a boat to explore the paradisiacal shores of Saleccia and Lotu. This scenic 2.5-hour-long tour departs from the marina of Ile Rousse.
- Luxury catamaran trip from Saint Florent. Enjoy a sea adventure touring the sublime Agriates coast aboard a deluxe catamaran. Snorkel in the turquoise sea waters and sunbathe sipping the delicious cocktails from the bar. Choose a day trip or a half-day excursion.
- Sailing tour to the Agriates beaches from Saint Florent. Discover some of Corsica’s most stunning beaches gliding over glistening waves. At each stop of your journey, you will have an opportunity to snorkel in the transparent waters lapping the northern shores.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
- Scandola Nature Reserve – explore Corsica’s natural treasure
- Calanches de Piana – explore Corsica’s coastal paradise
- Porto, Piana, and Cargese – crown jewels of Corsica’s dramatic west coast
- Welcome to Ile Rousse – one of Corsica’s summer hotspots
- Discover Desert des Agriates and its paradisiacal beaches
- 9 Best day trips from Calvi – plan your Corsican getaway
- 15 Hidden gems in Corsica – discover the island’s best-kept secrets
- Porto, Piana, and Cargese – crown jewels of Corsica’s dramatic west coast
- Where to stay in Corsica – best areas & places for your visit
- Corsica – where to go and what to do
- Top 11 most beautiful places in Corsica – the ultimate bucket list
- Best places to stay in Corsica for couples
- Calvi – discover the most charming seaside resort in Corsica
- Porto Vecchio travel guide – everything you need to know
- Ferries to Corsica – practical guide to booking your crossing with Corsica Ferries
HELPFUL TRAVEL RESOURCES
Liability Disclaimer
All outdoor activities are carried out at your own risk. Always plan ahead and be cautious when preparing for your hikes. The author of this blog cannot be held responsible in the event of an accident, death, loss, personal injury, or any other inconvenience or damage that may be sustained by anyone as a result of the use of any information contained on this website.
Please help support CoolCorsica!
If you find this website as useful as a guidebook you may have had to buy to plan your adventures, please consider helping me with a small donation.
This traveler-focused site is created in my spare time with a desire to share comprehensive information, useful tips, and inspiring photos of Corsica’s most scenic locations.
Please note that certain products/services and links to products/services are affiliate links and I may earn a commission for any purchases that you make, at no additional cost to you. I truly appreciate your use of any of the links I share.
With your generous help, I can continue to offer my advice and support in planning your dream holiday.
Thank you for your contribution!