Corsica (South Coast) ⛰️
"The 'Island of Beauty' where wild mountains meet turquoise Mediterranean waters."
You can rent a car in Figari and drive between the dramatic granite peaks of the Alta Rocca and the world-class beaches of Porto-Vecchio. It offers a perfect blend of high-end resort relaxation and rugged road-trip exploration.
A perfect blend of South Corsica's dual identity: the glitzy, turquoise coastline of Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio, and the rugged, granite peaks of the Alta Rocca mountains.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Arrival in Salt City Porto-Vecchio
Morning — Arrive in Porto-Vecchio. Settle into your hotel and take a slow walk through the charming Place de la République for a cafe au lait.
Afternoon — Stroll to the Citadels upper walk for panoramic bay views and explore the narrow streets of the Old Town. Visit the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
Evening — Dine on fresh seafood at a quayside restaurant in Porto-Vecchio's marina as the yachts light up.
💡 Rent a car at the airport; it is essential for exploring the southern coast's remote beaches.
Day 2 · The Iconic Beaches of the South
Morning — Drive to Palombaggia Beach, early. Enjoy the iconic red granite rocks, pine trees, and crystal-clear water before the crowds arrive.
Afternoon — Head to Santa Giulia Beach. Formed by a lagoon, it offers shallow turquoise waters and a more laid-back, 'chill' vibe for snorkeling.
Evening — Drive up to the village of Zonza for a rustic mountain dinner of wild boar stew and local Corsican cheeses.
💡 Parking at Palombaggia can be expensive; arrive before 9:30 AM to find cheaper spots further from the main entrance.
Day 3 · The Citadels of Bonifacio
Morning — Drive south to Bonifacio. Park near the harbor and take the steep climb (or the tourist train) up to the medieval Citadel.
Afternoon — Follow the 'Sentier des Douaniers' coastal path for a light hike with stunning views of the limestone cliffs and the Lavezzi Islands.
Evening — Walk the limestone narrow streets of the high town. Enjoy a glass of local Vermentino wine at a wine bar overlooking the 'Grain de Sel' rock formation.
💡 Bonifacio is famously windy; hold onto your hat when walking near the cliff edges!
Day 4 · Island Hopping & Crystal Waters
Morning — Take a boat shuttle from Bonifacio harbor to the Lavezzi Islands (Îles Lavezzi), a granite archipelago with Caribbean-style water.
Afternoon — Explore the islets on foot, finding hidden coves. These islands are a protected nature reserve with some of the best snorkeling in France.
Evening — Return to Bonifacio for a quiet dinner. Try 'Aubergines à la bonifacienne' (stuffed eggplants), a local specialty.
💡 There are no shops or shade on the Lavezzi Islands; bring plenty of water and a beach umbrella.
Day 5 · Into the Mountains: Alta Rocca
Morning — Drive inland into the Alta Rocca mountains. Stop in the Ospedale Forest for bracing highland air and views back toward the coast.
Afternoon — Visit the stunning Lac de l’Ospedale, a man-made lake surrounded by pine forests, and hike to the 'Piscia di Gallu' waterfall.
Evening — Enjoy a final mountain sunset. Stay in a local auberge for a traditional Corsican meal and a slower pace of life.
💡 Temperature drops significantly in the mountains; bring a light jacket even in summer.
Day 6 · Mountain Vistas and Departure
Morning — Slow breakfast overlooking the forest. Visit a local honey producer or olive oil mill in a mountain village to buy souvenirs.
Afternoon — Drive back toward Figari Airport. If time permits, stop for a final swim at the rugged Roccapina beach to see the 'Lion of Roccapina' rock.
Evening — Depart from Figari-Sud Corse Airport.
💡 Allow extra time for the drive to the airport as mountain roads are narrow and can have slow-moving traffic.