Ready for an extraordinary adventure? Embark on an unforgettable road trip in Corsica and let yourself be enchanted by its breathtaking scenic roads! Between turquoise sea and majestic mountains, each turn will reveal grandiose landscapes and perfect villages to explore. So fasten your seatbelt and get ready to discover the island of beauty at its best!
Ready for a thrilling adventure? Corsica, with its stunning landscapes, awaits you for an unforgettable road trip. Between majestic mountains and steep coasts, each road unfolds its own tableau of wild nature and dazzling panoramas. Let go, buckle up, and allow yourself to be guided through carefully chosen stops that promise unforgettable memories!
1st stop: Bastia, a departure under the best auspices
If you start your journey in Bastia, whether by ferry or by plane with Air Corsica, you are already on the path to adventure. The D80, the iconic road around Cap Corse, awaits you. Prepare to be amazed as you wind through varied and picturesque landscapes. With its dizzying cliffs and charming villages, each turn holds a new surprise!
The must-see stops in Cap Corse
Don’t miss stopping at iconic places like Erbalunga, a charming little fishing village dominated by a 16th-century Genoese tower. Continue on to Nonza and embrace the beauty of its black pebble beach before reaching Centuri, a small haven of peace where you can enjoy a well-deserved break.
2nd stop: From Saint-Florent to Corte and the Gorges of Restonica
Leaving the coast behind, the D81 takes you inland toward Corte. The road becomes narrower and winding as you head towards the fabulous Gorges de la Restonica. Be careful while driving! Make several stops to dive into crystal-clear waters and relish a moment of relaxation.
The must-sees in Corte
Don’t miss the Corte citadel, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, the walk to the Melo and Capitello lakes is an excellent way to enrich your experience, even though it is considered moderately difficult.
3rd stop: The road to the Calanques of Piana
Continue your adventure by taking the D84, a beautiful wild road that crosses the Valdoniello forest before reaching Porto. Then follow the D81 to admire the spectacular Calanques of Piana, sculpted by erosion and offering impressive red granite cliffs.
Not to be missed at the Calanques
Be sure to visit the Porto marina with its Genoese tower and lovely port, before stopping at the Piana viewpoint to capture memorable photos. A boat trip to the Scandola reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also a must to explore the maritime beauty of the region.
4th stop: From Porto to Ajaccio along the coast
By following the D81, you delve even deeper into the natural beauty of Corsica, hugging the west coast towards Ajaccio. This stretch is one of the most popular with tourists, and it’s easy to understand why, especially with the breathtaking view of the Sagone Gulf.
The discoveries along the coast
Consider stopping in Cargèse, an original village where two churches, one Catholic and the other Orthodox, coexist. Also admire the Sanguinaires islands, which can be viewed from the Parata tower.
5th stop: From Ajaccio to Bonifacio, between history and nature
Leave Ajaccio and head towards Propriano by taking the D55 and D58, roads that immerse you in breathtaking Mediterranean scenery, between hidden coves and impressive cliffs. You will not be disappointed by the beauty of this route.
The gems to discover along the way
The paradise beach of Roccapina awakens the senses with its natural sculpture resembling a lion formed by the rocks. Take the time to explore Sartène, famous for its authentic atmosphere and fascinating history.
6th stop: From Bonifacio to Porto-Vecchio through the mountains
To conclude this breathtaking road trip, take the D268 and head towards the Bavella pass. This section offers breathtaking views of the granite needles with majestic shapes. As you head toward Porto-Vecchio, anticipate stops in idyllic places like Palombaggia and Santa Giulia.
Activities to consider in this final stage
Enjoy the natural pools of Cavu for a swim, or embark on a hike to the hole of the Bombe for a memorable adventure in the heart of Corsican nature.
Practical tips for a successful road trip in Corsica
Before you hit the roads of the island of beauty, some tips are in order. For a pleasant drive, a small SUV is ideal, due to the narrow roads. Prefer the periods of May-June or September-October to enjoy mild weather while avoiding the crowds. And don’t forget to refuel whenever possible, as gas stations can be scarce in the backcountry.
Finally, equip yourself with hiking shoes, sunglasses, a swimsuit, and your phone to capture the magical moments.
You are now ready to explore the wonders of Corsica by traveling along scenic roads that will dazzle you at every turn. Let the adventure begin and may the landscapes amaze you!
