- Corsica
Villages of the Balagne
Honey-hued villages cling to the mountainsides high above the Mediterranean, their stone houses and winding lanes seemingly untouched by the passing centuries. Scattered across the hills of the Balagne, these picturesque villages offer a glimpse of traditional Corsican life, where the pace remains wonderfully slow and the old ways are still woven into everyday life.
Why visit The Villages of the Balagne?
- Discover ancient villages
- Enjoy an unhurried pace of life
- Great for keen walkers
From the quaint villages perched on the hills above stunning sea views to remarkable walking routes and fantastic local cuisines, this region can offer so much to the holidaymaker. Head to Monticello, where it is believed that Christopher Columbus’s mother was born. Or visit the Tartagine Forest, a fantastic area of wild countryside in Corsica’s Natural Park. Make sure to visit Pigna, a compact cluster of orange roofs and blue shutters and a good place to get a feel of the traditional culture of Corsica. There are potters, painters, music box makers, musicians and jewellery craftsmen all based here.
What to do in the Villages of the Balagne
Visit Alzipratu vineyard
Located in the town of Zilia, you can taste these celebrated wines in a rather photogenic spot surrounded by vines and olive groves.
Visit the gateway to the GR20
Calenzana is the GR20’s starting point, with two impressive churches, a charming square and lovely places to eat.
Visit Le Parc de Saleccia
A must for garden lovers! The park has a wide range of Mediterranean plants and is great to explore.
An in-depth guide to The Villages of the Balagne
Village life in La Balagne is wonderfully unhurried, making it ideal for those looking to escape the bustle and immerse themselves in the charm and character of rural Corsica. Yet the region’s larger towns, beaches and everyday amenities are only a short drive away.
The villages themselves are a delight to explore, with narrow cobbled lanes winding between honey-coloured stone houses and pretty churches. Small cafés spill onto village squares and terraces, where you can linger over a coffee while taking in some truly breathtaking views across the mountains and Mediterranean beyond.