Calvi
Calvi is well worth a visit, even if only to walk the ramparts of its 15th century Genoese citadel, perched atop the rock promontory at the western end of Calvi bay. You can take time to wander, absorbing the atmosphere and visiting the Cathedrale St Jean-Baptiste that stands at the highest point of the old ‘bald’ rock. You can then wander back down to the yachting marina, lined with bars and restaurants that overlook the bay, with the backdrop of the rugged mountains (which are often snow-capped as late as June). Calvi has a long, sandy beach backed by pine trees where the sea is shallow and shelves gradually. Children will love the Scimia Calvaise the tree top walk in the Pinède pine forest.
You can also visit one of the many festivals and events held throughout the year including the Jazz festival, held in June (23rd - 28th Aug), which attracts top performers from both Corisca and mainland Europe, and which offers free concerts in the afternoon and two further concerts in the evening, There is also the Festiventu Wind Festival during October which celebrates everything connected with wind, such as kites and balloons. For an evening excursion, ‘Chez Tao’ in the Citadel is not to be missed. Originally owned by Tao Kerreffoff, purportedly a white Russian cavalry captain, this fine nouvelle cuisine restaurant is now run by Tao’s two sons, one of whom is a well renowned musician.
To see northwest Corsica from the sea, you could take one of the Colombo Line boat trips from the port. There are scheduled daily departures to Scandola and Girolata and a weekly day trip to Ajaccio. Tickets can be obtained from the blue and yellow kiosk on the port. The trips are weather dependant, so do check with the staff that the trip will be running on your chosen day.
For energetic music lovers, walk up to Notre Dame de la Serra to listen to the violinist playing in the chapel. At 216m above Calvi, you will also be rewarded with fabulous views across the bay below and don’t forget to take water, a hat and sun cream.
