High Corsicadepartment
Upper Corsicadepartment north of the Isle of Beautyis a department famous for its rich heritage historyIt's a region with a vibrant culture and breathtaking natural landscapes. Home to renowned towns such as Bastia, Calvi and Corte, the region boasts an exceptional panorama combining majestic mountains, unspoilt coastlines and charming villages.
The territory of Haute-Corse is divided into several cantons, including Castagniccia, Casinca, and Ghisonaccia, each offering its own wonders and points of interest for tourists. Populated by a diverse community with a rich history influenced by both Mediterranean and EuropeanThe Haute-Corse is a destination of choice for lovers of exploration and cultural discovery.
In this article, we take you on a journey through the must-see places and attractions of this exceptional region, revealing the hidden treasures of Haute-Corse.
To discover Corsica from South, click here.
Explore picturesque towns and villages
Bastia: a journey through time
Bastia, in the heart of Haute-Corse, is brimming with history and Mediterranean charm. Its center is dominated by the Citadel, a magnificent example of 14th-century Genoese architecture. Within this fortress, you'll discover the Palais des Gouverneurs, the Oratoire de la Sainte-Croix, and the Cathedral of Sainte-Marie, all witnesses to the town's fascinating history.
The Vieux Port, with its colorful facades and inviting terraces, is an ideal place to soak up the local atmosphere. Place Saint-Nicolas, famous for its statue of Napoleon and its bandstand, is a lively hub of events and meetings all year round.
Find out more about Napoleon Bonaparte, read our dedicated article here.
Calvi and its emblematic citadel
Calvi, perched on the northwest coast of Corsica, is renowned for its citadel built on a rocky promontory. It offers spectacular views of the sea and the town. Dating back to the 13th century and built by the Genoese, the citadel was a strategic pivot in Corsican history.
The town itself is a maze of narrow streets and historic buildings, exuding a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its port, bustling with yachts and fishing boats, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the maritime panorama.
The hilltop villages of Balagne
The Balagne region, nestled between Calvi and Île-Rousse, is famous for its picturesque hilltop villages offering breathtaking views of the sea and mountains. Places like Pigna, Sant'Antonino and Corbara are perfect examples of traditional Corsican architecture, with their stone houses and winding lanes.
These villages are also renowned for their crafts and their culinary specialties, making these destinations perfect for those wishing to discover the authenticity of Corsica.
Nature and outdoor adventures
Dream beaches on the Isle of Beauty
Haute-Corse is renowned for its beaches each with its own unique atmosphere. Among them, Ostriconi beach, near Île-Rousse, stands out for its immaculate white sand, its dunes and a stream that winds its way down to the sea. Bodri beach, located in Corbara, is a real gem with its fine sand and brilliant turquoise water, perfect for swimmers and idlers alike. Nonza, meanwhile, offers a contrasting experience with its black pebbles and picturesque village, offering a striking view of the blue sea. Other beaches, such as Ghjunchitu and Saleccia, are also must-sees for Corsican nature lovers.
Hiking in Corsica's Regional Nature Park
In the heart of the island, the Regional nature park of Corsica covers a vast area and promises a host of hiking memorable. The park is home to a variety of trails, winding through landscapes ranging from mountain peaks to lush valleys and unspoilt shores. The GR20, hiking trail among the most famous in Europe, offers a spectacular crossing of Haute-Corse, with breathtaking panoramas of mountains and sea. The Castagniccia and Casinca regions, famous for their dense forests and authentic villages, also offer great hiking opportunities.
Visit water sports between diving, sailing and kayaking
Haute-Corse is the ideal playground for water sports enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean invite you to dive, revealing exceptional marine biodiversity. Lovers of sailing and kayak The Gulf of Calvi and the Agriates desert offer ideal sailing conditions. For those in search of adrenalin, the surf and kitesurfing are practiced on beaches where winds and currents create perfect conditions for these sports.
Cultural heritage and gastronomic
The route of artisans and local flavors
Haute-Corse shines with its culinary and artisan traditions, offering an unforgettable adventure through its local flavors. Inspired by initiatives such as the Route des Saveurs de Charlevoix, it invites visitors to explore its gastronomic itineraries. These routes offer a unique opportunity to meet local artisans and savour regional specialities.
Take a tour of the cheese dairies to taste brocciu, a speciality of the region. cheese or visit the oil mills to appreciate the excellence of local olive oils. Local markets, such as Bastia's, are brimming with fresh, artisanal produce: fruit, vegetables, Corsican charcuterie, offering a real immersion in the island's gastronomic culture.
Festivals and traditional events
Throughout the year, Haute-Corse vibrates to the rhythm of festivals and traditional events celebrating its rich heritage cultural. The Calvi Music Festival, in July, is a not-to-be-missed event attracting both international and local artists. The Festival de la Chanson Corse showcases the island's traditional music and local talent.
Visit village festivalslike the Festa di a Madonna in Sermano, offer a window on local customs and traditions, plunging visitors into the heart of Corsican authenticity.
Not-to-be-missed museums and historic sites
Haute-Corse is dotted with museums and historic sites that tell its story. The Musée de la Corse in Corte is essential for anyone wishing to understand the island's history and culture. The Musée d'Anthropologie Préhistorique in Sartène displays archaeological collections dating back to prehistoric times.
Iconic sites such as the Citadelle in Calvi and the Palais des Gouverneurs in Bastia are key stops for history and architecture enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into Corsica's rich and captivating history.
Conclusion
Haute-Corse boasts towns steeped in history, charming hilltop villages and breathtaking natural vistas. It's a destination of choice for those seeking adventure and cultural discovery. Whether you visit Bastia, Calvi or Corte, each place promises a unique experience.
Its heavenly beaches, mountain walks and traditional festivals make this region a Mediterranean treasure. We invite you to explore this magnificent island, savor its culinary specialties, and soak up its rich and varied heritage. Haute-Corse awaits you to create unforgettable memories.
FAQ
Where to swim in Haute-Corse?
Haute-Corse has a wealth of wonderful places to swim. Among the most popular, the beaches of the north coast, notably Saint-Florent and Patrimonio, attract many visitors. For those who prefer the calm waters of the coves and beaches of the east coast, the area around Macinaggio and Centuri is perfect. Freshwater enthusiasts are not left out, with the rivers and waterfalls of the Castagniccia region offering exceptional bathing spots.
And don't miss the beach at Saleccia, famous for its white sand and crystal-clear waters. The coves of the west coast, around Galéria and Girolata, offer idyllic settings for swimming. Finally, for nature lovers, the rivers and waterfalls of Corsica's regional nature park offer a unique bathing experience amid breathtaking scenery.
Why 2A and 2B for Corsica?
Corsica is divided into two departments, 2A for Corse-du-Sud and 2B for Haute-Corse, a separation that can be explained by the island's history and geography. This division, which dates back to the time when Corsica was divided into two distinct provinces, allows for more efficient administrative management. It takes into account the cultural and geographical specificities of each region, ensuring a more local approach tailored to the needs of its inhabitants.
