WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN SAINT FLORENT – A CHIC CORSICAN GETAWAY

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Renowned for its chic marina, sultry atmosphere, and beautiful setting, the enchanting town of Saint Florent is a must-see destination for travellers exploring the region of northern Corsica.

Often called ‘the Corsican Saint Tropez’, this delightful fishing port was once an important commercial hub trading with Genoa.

Today, Saint Florent proudly claims the trophy for ultimate summer relaxation offering visitors a true taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Abounding in arresting landscapes, sublime beaches, and rich cultural heritage, it epitomizes dream vacation catering to all tastes and preferences.

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EXQUISITE SETTING OF SAINT FLORENT

The town is located in northern Corsica at the western base of Cap Corse.

Sat on the waterfront of the beautiful Nebbio Valley it overlooks the picturesque Gulf of Saint Florent known for its paradisiac beaches and coastal hikes. The fertile landmass south of the fashionable resort called Conca d’Oru is home to prestigious vineyards where passionate growers established the oldest Corsican wine appellation– Patrimonio. Above, the rugged mountain ridge with its prominent Teghime pass encloses the dreamy valley of Nebbio.

From the east of Saint Florent, vast areas of untamed wilderness stretch out forming Desert des Agriates, a unique territory rich in rare endemic flora and fauna species. Its protected grounds may only be accessed on foot via scenic footpaths or by sea. The 37 km-long coastline of the Agriates is dotted with some of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches. The most popular coves can be reached by maritime transport departing from the port of Saint Florent.

Bastia, the largest town of northern Corsica is located 24 km east of Saint Florent. Two good-quality roads D81 and D82 connect both locations with Santini Autocar busses providing daily public transfers. The Poretta airport situated further south on the outskirts of Bastia is only 31 km away from Saint Florent.

The winding departmental D81 route heading west from Saint Florent along the Agriates leads to the beautiful Balagne region where its main tourist centres, Ile Rousse and Calvi, guarantee numerous holiday attractions.

HISTORY OF SAINT FLORENT

• Early chronicles mention the existence of a Roman city called Cersunum 1 km west of the current town.
• In 1439 the Genoese who ruled in the area, erected a Citadel designed to resist hostile attacks.
• Saint Florent was founded in the 16^th century. The inhabitants of the town included farmers, sailors, and fishermen. The official authority was represented by Genoese Governors.
• A large proportion of Saint Florent’s population was decimated by a plague raging in the region between 1525-28.
• In 1553 Monseigneur de Thermes, a general of Henry II of France invaded Corsica landing in Saint Florent. During the subsequent battles of the armies, Sampiero Corso, a Corsican soldier fighting for the French king, faced the forces of a Genoese admiral Andrea D’Oria. The siege of Saint Florent lasted until February 1554.
• The second half of the 16^th century marked the 170-year-long rule of the Genoese Republic on the island.
• In 1729, taxes imposed by the Genoese on the local population triggered the Wars of Independence. During this time the town was fiercely fought over. Corsican patriots equipped with Europe’s first democratic constitution united under Pasquale Paoli, ended the reign of the Genoese on the island. However, in 1769, in the aftermath of a failed attempt to protect the Corsican independence against the French troops, Pasquale Paoli fled to England departing from the shores of Saint Florent.
• With the Treaty of Versailles, the Genoese ceded the island to France.
• In 1793 the Corsican population rose against French Republican forces. Following the siege of Saint Florent (7-20 February 1794) Pasquale Paoli’s army supported by the British fleet, reconquered the town. Gilbert Elliot became Viceroy of Corsica opening a brief period of the Anglo-Corsican Kingdom.
• In contemporary times, Saint Florent gained prominence as one of the instrumental locations during the liberation of Bastia in 1943. Muslim soldiers who landed on the shores of the town fought in a fierce battle at Col de Teghime, a strategic mountain pass leading to Bastia. Bodies of the fallen soldiers are laid to rest at the Saint Florent cemetery. 
• Today, the economy of Saint Florent is largely dependent on tourism and related services such as catering, yachting, or car rental. A prominent part of the surrounding region is taken up by agricultural activity with viticulture being the bedrock of local farming.

13 BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN SAINT FLORENT

1. Just like the locals, enjoy a cup of strong Corsican coffee in one of the bars at Place des Portes while watching a game of petanque. Located at the entrance to the old town, the shaded square is a known meeting place used for community gatherings and events.
2. Explore the narrow streets of the old quarter. A relaxing stroll allows indulging in the vibrant atmosphere of the stylish harbour, home to numerous quaint boutiques and souvenir shops. Place Doria, a central point of the village positioned in the back of the St Anne church exudes authentic Mediterranean charm.
3. Visit the beautifully renovated Sainte Anne parish church rising tall next to Place Doria with its square bell tower dating back to the 18^th century. The feast of the Mother of the Virgin Mary takes place on July 26 when, at the closing of the day, the statue of the saint is processed through the streets of the town.
4. Discover the Citadel of Saint Florent. Built in 1439 to mark the Genoese rule of the area, this imposing building crowns a limestone promontory overlooking the picturesque bay. Attacked during the siege of December 1553 – February 1554, and later bombarded by the Nelson’s army in 1794, the fortress was eventually renovated in 1998 – 1999. Today it opens its doors to local art exhibitions and cultural events. Its extensive grounds with mesmerizing views of the charming town framed by a jagged coastline are home to Proto Latino, a popular music festival held at the beginning of August.
5. Try delicious local seafood served in one of the excellent waterfront restaurants watching fishing boats and luxury yachts coming in and out of the pretty marina. The port of Saint Florent has long been a playground for the rich and famous and you may find yourself rubbing shoulders with international VIPs and celebrities.
6. Explore the cathedral Santa Maria Assunta located on D238, 1 km southeast of the village centre. A fine example of Pisan Romanesque architecture, this elegant, limestone building was erected on the original spot of the Roman settlement called Nebbium. The spacious interior of the cathedral is simple with interesting carvings gracing the pillars. On the right-hand side by the entrance, a glass case holds the remains of  St Flor, a 3^rd-century Roman martyr soldier who died as a young boy in his teenage years. Originally buried in the catacombs in Rome, the mummified relic was donated by Pope Clement XIV to the bishop of the Nebbio in 1771. The nave also holds the tomb of General Antoine Gentili, a local patriot supporting Pascal Paoli during the Wars for Independence.
7. Hop on a boat to one of the exquisite beaches of Desert des Agriates. Le Popeye provides daily shuttle services with the embarkation point in the port. You may also opt for a fast semi-rigid or even rent a small inflatable vessel available from Plasir Nautic. Compare your options to choose one that best suits your preferences.
8. Enjoy a magical sailing cruise to the exquisite beaches of the Agriates. At each stop, you will have an opportunity to snorkel in the transparent waters of the Mediterranean. The excursion is not suitable for pregnant women.
9. Hike to Tour de Mortella, a handsome Genoese tower located on the coast of the Agriates. This once important element of the defence and surveillance system may be reached via the beautiful Sentier des Douaniers path in 2h30min. If you prefer, you may continue your walk to Plage du Lotu and return on a boat.
10. Taste excellent local wines produced in the prestigious wineries of the Patrimonio Appellation. Nielluccio, Vermentino, and Muscat Petits Grains are the flagship grape varieties used for the production of wines within the appellation. With an ever-present breeze and plenty of sunshine, the limestone soils yield top-quality produce.
11. Enjoy a beach day at the delightful La Roya Plage. Its calm, shallow waters are perfect for families with young children while dreamy views of Saint Florent with the dramatic backdrop of the Cap Corse peninsula instantly transport you into a paradisiac retreat.
12. Try delicious local specialities produced by passionate artisans according to time-tested ancestral methods. The Corsican honey seduces with an explosion of flavours and aromas satisfying the most demanding palates. Certified with the AOC label for its quality the golden nectar perfectly showcases the diversity of endemic vegetation. The surroundings of Saint Florent are also known for the superb olive oil produced in the region since Antiquity. Widely used in local cuisine, it may be purchased in supermarkets, small boutiques, or directly from the producer.
13. Admire glorious coastal landscapes kayaking or paddling on dazzling waters of the Saint Florent Gulf. The watersports equipment may be rented by the hour at the La Roya beach.

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IMP TIP : small speedboats are not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, heart problems, or other serious medical conditions. In case of any of the above, choose a larger craft when booking your sea excursion.

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6 BEST BEACHES IN SAINT FLORENT

1. Plage de La Roya is the most popular beach in Saint Florent. Located on the west side of the port, it may be reached on foot in under 20 min. If you arrive by car, leave your vehicle behind the beach where you will find parking spaces. This picture-perfect bay is exposed to arresting views of the Cap Corse peninsula extending beyond the pretty town. The water is clear and shallow, a favourite among families with young children. Trees framing La Roya provide much-needed shade while the neighboring restaurant offers reasonably-priced meals and drinks.
2. On the other side of the town along the straight stretch of the main road is L’Ospedale, a 1.5 km-long pebbly beach. Accessed easily from the D81 road, it is frequented by holidaymakers staying in neighbouring hotels and residences. The sandy west end of L’Ospedale may be reached via a side road leading to the Domaine Gentile winery. A spacious car park behind the beach is free of charge.
3. Plage Tettola, a peaceful sand and gravel beach is a continuation of L’Ospedale, limited by a bunker on its left side. To enjoy the beautiful Gulf views from its shores, leave your car on the right-hand side of the Tettola parking. Evergreen shrubs fringing the beach provide modest shade.
4. Plage d’Olzo located further east is accessed by the same backroad near Domaine Gentile, this time, however, continue driving straight ahead towards the sea. In season, this 300 m-long cove is home to a small nautical centre offering watersports equipment for hire whereas a beach shack provides refreshments. Depending on the season, large amounts of seaweed may accumulate on the shores of this cosy beach. If you find this to be the case, continue walking north along the scenic coastal path to pick your private bay exposed to clear turquoise water.
5. The virgin beaches of the Agriates dotting the western shoreline of Saint Florent Bay are famous worldwide for their unprecedented wild beauty. To make the most of the exotic surroundings of this sublime stretch of the coast, you may walk, ride a bike, go by a 4×4 vehicle, enjoy a boat trip, or even paddle. Plage du Lotu and Plage de Saleccia are the two most frequented beaches but there are other glorious bays, equally mesmerizing.
6. Due to easy access, the inhabitants of Saint Florent often relax on the beaches of Farinole located 10 km north on the west coast of Cap Corse. Plage de Campo Magiore, also known as Plage Catarelli, may be reached via the D80 road in the direction of the campsite U Sole Marinu. This clear-water bay is mainly pebbly with a small sandy part at its northernmost end. The vast Plage Farinole located further north, offers soft golden sand and shallow waters. A large parking site behind the beach is free of charge. Other facilities include a restaurant and a small nautical centre. Both beaches are exposed to strong winds and underwater currents.

8 BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO AROUND SAINT FLORENT

1. Enjoy a thrilling drive around Cap Corse, the northernmost peninsula exposed to some of Corsica’s most dramatic landscapes. The narrow corniche road twists along the coast for 120 km granting an unforgettable experience.
2. Set off on a wine-tasting tour around the Nebbio Valley to explore unique Corsican flavours. Numerous wineries offer a complementary degustation while others will ask you to pay a small fee. If you wish to see the vineyards, you may take a scenic stroll along the paths crossing the valley.
3. Visit Bastia, the second largest city of the island situated on the northeastern coast of the island. Founded in 1378 by the Genoese, this historic place offers a wealth of attractions in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
4. Explore Desert des Agriates, an untamed protected territory accessible on foot, by bike, in a 4×4 vehicle, or by boat. Its unspoilt landscapes are home to not only rich flora and fauna, but also to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean.
5. Head for a bike trip around the Nebbio Valley. As there are hardly any flat sections of road within the area go for an electrically assisted bicycle to get extra power when facing added resistance. E-bike rentals in Saint Florent provide a selection of choices to allow everyone to find the model they need.
6. Visit the adorable villages of Nebbio. Each one different, all oozing authentic character, they are steeped in history, culture, and charm. Follow the windy valley roads to Oletta, Murato, Sorio and Santo-Pietro di Tenda. Cascades de Sorio provide a delightful bathing spot where the cool water of the river offers a welcome refreshment during the hot summer months.
7. Discover Eglise San Michele de Murato, an outstanding example of a Romanesque school of art, one of the most beautiful churches in Corsica. Its beautiful polychrome masonry integrates perfectly into its spellbinding natural surroundings.
8. Enjoy a free flight in a two-seater paraglider accompanied by a certified instructor. Serra di Pignu, a 360° panoramic point above Saint Florent is a known spot for paragliding adventures. The flights are run from April to October.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAINT FLORENT

• Hotel de la Roya (€€€)

• Hotel Demeure Loredana (€€€)

• Boutique Hotel Responsable et Restaurant Basgi Basgi (€€)

• Hotel Tettola (€)

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Autocar Figarella offers bus transfers servicing Bastia with 3-5 connections per day. Busses depart from the coach car park in Saint Florent, the timetable may be consulted at https://www.corsicabus.org/busBastia/BIA_St_Florent.html. Mariani Autocars runs services between Saint Florent and Ile Rousse in July and August, you may find more information on their official site https://www.autocarsmariani.com/. Tickets cost €10-€15.

• The charming port of Saint Florent provides numerous services. In order to book moorings at the marina consult the website www.resaportcorse.com. For weather forecasts nautical information, and sanitary facilities visit the head office of the port located at the foot of the St Anne church. In high season it is open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Detailed information is provided on the marina’s website https://www.portsaintflorent.com/en/. In the port, you may also purchase tickets for a boat ride to one of the sublime beaches of the Agriates. Le Popeye (https://www.lepopeye.com/en) offers shuttle services to both Plage de Saleccia and Plage du Lotu. Its ticket office opens at 9 a.m. with the departure point located nearby. Taxi-Plages (http://www.taxi-plages-saint-florent.fr/) runs speed boats from the harbour to both beaches, the booking may be made online.

• The local Tourist Information Center provides visitors with the most up-to-date information and advice on what to see and do in Saint Florent. Its office is located near the Citadel at 11 Rte de la Citadelle, 20217. You will find plenty of parking space in the vicinity.

• The town’s Post Office is located by the main D81 road by turning towards the Citadel. On Saturday the services close at noon.

• To draw cash you may use one of the ATMs located in the center of Saint Florent near the Place des Portes. Another teller machine is located by the post office 150 m up the main street.

• There are three petrol stations within the town, a centrally located Total with a small service area, and two Vito points on the outskirts. All provide car wash facilities.

• In Saint Florent, there are several complementary and paid car parking areas. The centrally positioned paid car park in the port of the town offers the easiest access to Saint Florent’s top attractions, however, it gets very busy in summer. In the rear part of the port further down towards the Roya beach, you may find additional free parking places. Behind the Spar supermarket, opposite the port, another large free parking area has been opened to accommodate the growing number of visitors. If you wish to explore the town starting from its northern end, you may also leave your vehicle by the Citadel where free spaces are almost always available.

• There are two supermarkets in Saint Florent, a Spar situated opposite the town’s marina and a large well-stocked Leclerc located 2 km south from the center on the main road D82. Otherwise, there are various smaller shops and boutiques where you may purchase the essentials as well as fresh local produce.

HELPFUL TRAVEL RESOURCES :

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