As you follow the coastal road towards Calvi, you reach the charming little village of Algajola. With a long stretch of beach and a quaint village square, it is the ideal place to relax, unwind and dodge the crowds. The village is a real treasure, remaining calm and tranquil even in the height of the summer and the atmospheric citadel enhances its Corsican charm with tales of marauding pirates from medieval times.
Marine de Davia is an exclusive private estate of luxury villas, just four kilometres from the town of L'Ile Rousse. With several fine sandy beaches, many houses are situated with direct access to the sea or 'pieds dans l'eau' as the French say, making this an ideal place for a quiet and relaxed villa holiday.
The resort of Sant'Ambroggio is served by the little train that runs along the coast between Calvi and L'Ile Rousse and with its relatively new marina it is a growing and thriving little town. It has a sandy beach and the yachting marina has facilities that include an open air, salt water swimming pool and tennis courts. There are a number of shops and restaurants here, but please be aware that some of these may not be open out of season.
Things to See & Do
- Algajola is a small, ancient fishing village that during the 1570s, was the home to the Bishop of Corsica, whilst he spread the good word throughout la Balagne. He was attacked in the church whilst trying to break up a fight that had erupted and the villagers awaited divine retribution. They believed this had come in 1643 when pirates destroyed Algajola. The village was rebuilt the following year by the Genoese and today the excellent sandy beach and atmospheric citadel provide an ideal setting in which to relax and unwind.
- Catch the Calvi to L’Ile Rousse train which stops in Algajola and Sant'Ambroggio, an easy way to visit the nearby towns and view the stunning coastline.
- The fortress villages of the Haute-Balagne perched high above the sea and surrounded by terraces that produced olives, wine and figs together with plentiful citrus groves are some of the most picturesque on the island. Backed by the dramatic mountain landscapes, many of the villages are nearly a thousand years old. A recent government redevelopment programme has encouraged young people to settle in the villages and preserve the traditional practices resulting in the Strada di L’Artigiani, the Artisans route; a craft trail where you can visit workshops and buy the wares of the local artists.
- Wander the streets of L'Ile Rousse old town and make sure you take a trip to the market held every morning in a majestic covered market place. The produce is local and fresh and includes fish, vegetables, local honey, charcuterie and cheeses. There are ample restaurants to choose from in the narrow streets and around the main square beneath the plane trees and the silver sand of Ile Rousse beach is very tempting.
- Bodri beach between Marine de Davia and L'Ile Rousse, is an unspoilt beach with clear crystal water, almost perfectly white sand and a small beachside café.
- There are plenty of walking opportunities along the coastline or through the maquis in the hills. Walk to Pigna, Corbara or Sant'Ambroggio from Algajola for an off the beaten track experience and wonderful views.
