What to do in Corsica?
Corsica in Brief…
Beaches: Swimming and water sports on Santa Giulia and Palombaggia beaches.
Natural Sites: Explore the Cavu Valley for its natural pools and hike in the Ospedale mountains.
History and Culture: Visit the citadels of Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio, including the famous King Aragon Staircase.
Beaches of South Corsica
If you’re wondering what to do in Corsica on a first trip, starting with its beaches is obvious. South Corsica invites you to discover shores with stunning turquoise waters.
Palombaggia Beach and Santa Giulia Beach
For a successful campsite stay in Corsica, visiting the beaches is a must. Santa Giulia Beach, next to Palombaggia Beach, is a true paradise for water sports. You can rent equipment for wingfoil, paddleboarding, double kayaking, or funboating. The water sports centre "Corse Nature Evasion" is one of the best providers on the island.
Access: Santa Giulia Beach is about 23 km from the campsite. Palombaggia Beach is 26 km from the camping Santa Lucia.
Address: Corse Nature Evasion, Muratello, 20137 Porto-Vecchio, 24 km from the campsite via the T10.
The Quiet Charm of Pinarello
If you’re looking for what to do in Corsica beyond the well-known beaches, Pinarello is a lovely alternative. The Pinarello Gulf, near Sainte-Lucie-de-Porto-Vecchio, features a small fishing port and a family-friendly beach. It’s also ideal for kayak trips or a snorkeling session.
Access: Pinarello Gulf is just 5 km from the camping Santa Lucia.
The Isle of Beauty: Nature and Mountains
What to do in Corsica after enjoying its beaches? Head inland and explore the island’s heights.
The Cavu Valley and Its Natural Pools
After winding through the maquis roads, you’ll find natural pools with crystal-clear water. Beyond swimming, the valley is perfect for adventure activities like canyoning. Horseback rides or mountain biking are ideal for a day of escape.
Access: From the camping Santa Lucia, it takes about 12 minutes by car via the D168A to reach the Cavu Valley.
The Ospedale Mountains
The Ospedale mountains are a great choice for hiking enthusiasts. Enjoy the stunning views over the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio and, on clear days, even Sardinia. For families, Xtrem Sud is an adventure park with treetop trails and Via Ferrata, offering outdoor activities. Here again, what to do in Corsica perfectly blends sea and mountains.
Address: Xtrem Sud, Route Ospedale, 20137 Porto-Vecchio, 29 km from camping Santa Lucia.
Access: The Ospedale mountains are about 28 km from camping Santa Lucia.
Inland: Corsican History and Traditions
Wondering what to do in Corsica? Continue with a journey through time. The Isle of Beauty reveals its unique character through historic sites.
The Citadel of Porto-Vecchio
Porto-Vecchio is a must-see in Corsica. Its old town, perched on a rock, overlooks a natural harbour and bay. Visit the Bastion de France and enjoy a 360° view of the port and salt marshes.
Access: Porto-Vecchio town centre is about 15 km from camping Santa Lucia.
Bonifacio, the City on the Water
What to do in Corsica? Bonifacio is one of the best answers. Its medieval citadel sits atop white limestone cliffs. A boat trip is recommended to admire sea caves and cliffs. It’s also a starting point for trips to the Lavezzi Islands. For the more adventurous, the King Aragon Staircase offers a thrilling experience and breathtaking sea views.
Access: Bonifacio is about 44 km from camping Santa Lucia.
It’s time to pack your bags! But the question remains: what to do in Corsica for a complete adventure? A road trip could take you to the treasures of Ajaccio, Calvi, Bastia, the Piana calanques, and the Scandola Nature Reserve. Don’t miss the Sanguinaires Islands. Book your stay at the nature campsite Santa Lucia for a week or more.
FAQ
Q. Is it easy to get around Corsica in a campervan?
Corsica has roads that can be narrow, especially in the mountains. It’s recommended to plan your route carefully. A week in Corsica is ideal to explore the area.
Q. What to do in Corsica with family?
Corsica is perfect for a family stay. Sandy beaches with shallow water, like Santa Giulia, are ideal for young children. Outdoor activities such as kayaking or snorkeling let you explore marine life safely. Adventure parks, like the one at Ospedale, offer fun for all ages. Finally, the citadels of Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio are easy to explore without too much walking.
What are the must-visit snorkeling spots in Corsica?
Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, and the Lavezzi Islands are famous for clear waters and rich marine life. In the north, the Scandola Nature Reserve and Saleccia Beach are also excellent for spotting fish and coral.
