ABOUT AREA
Monaccia d'Aullène is a charming village in southern Corsica, a stroll through the village showcases much of its history associated with the monastery that once stood proudly in the village. The restored wells, wash-houses and bread ovens will transport you back to a time gone by. The countryside surrounding the village is beautifully green, and there are many fantastic walks to explore in the local area.
BEACHES
Golfe de Figari
These secluded and unfrequented coves are just delightful – a gorgeous string of narrow sandy creeks spread around a shallow turquoise bay. If you can’t bear the crowds of the more popular beaches in the height of the summer season, then these will just be the perfect choice for you. You can access any of the coves via unmarked dirt tracks through the maquis and a few minutes walk.
Palombaggia
Arguably the most famous beach on the island, the beach at Palombaggia is one of Corsica's finest and therefore one of its most popular. It was voted one of Europe's top 20 beaches in a poll in the Times this year and as such it can be very crowded in peak season - and it's easy to see why. An exquisite blend of fine white sand guarded by huge red granite rocks and fronted with gorgeous blue seas, and lined with beautiful pine trees. The access road may seem long and it can be crowded in high season, but at any other time of year is well worth a visit.
Santa Giulia
This is another very popular beach close to Porto Vecchio. In contrast to Palombaggia it has pale yellow sand but it can be just as crowded as its more famous cousin. It has a good selection of shops and restaurants and it is also very popular with water sports enthusiasts.
Pinarellu
This exquisite bay situated 7km north of Porto Vecchio with its fine sweep of yellow sand is more than worth a visit and was recently included in The Times' list of the best 20 beach holidays in Europe. While you're there you can check out the near perfect Genoese tower which dominates the peninsula. It has a long sweep of soft white sand and is backed by a pine forest, ideal for any members of the party who need shade.
San Ciprianu
A beautiful half moon of white sand and turquoise water to the north of Porto Vecchio that has several water-sports facilities.
THINGS TO SEE & DO
Visit Restaurant 'U Fuconu'
Located only a five-minute drive away in Figari Village, this quaint local restaurant offers homemade, Corsican specialities at a reasonable price making it well worth a visit. Live Corsican music is normally played at the weekends adding to this delightful atmosphere.
Old Porto Vecchio
The old Genoese walled town still seduces visitors with its picturesque narrow streets and the austerity of its high stone houses that are set within the citadel's ramparts. Wander the ancient streets, the Borgo, where you can see the enormous twisted tree of the Place de la République, the 19th-century church of St-Jean Baptiste and the gallery housed within the Bastion di A Funtana Vecchia. Experience live Corsican music and soak up the local atmosphere. Amongst the best venues is 'la Taverne du Roi', which is tucked away in the citadel of Porto Vecchio. Many restaurants also host a Corsican night once a week featuring a local band - look out for posters or ask your representative for up-to-date information.
Porto Vecchio Marina
Within a few minutes walk of the old town, the marina lined with cafés is an excellent place to enjoy a leisurely drink during those hot summer evenings. There is also a variety of boat trips on offer with tours around the beautiful coastline.
L'Ospedale and Col de Bavella
Drive inland more than 1200m up to the spectacular Col de Bavella, one of the most dramatic passes in Corsica with stunning views across extensive forest, ocean and mountains. Also visit the surrounding mountain villages in the area. Try canyoning or take a dip in a rock pool in the rivers of the Bavella massif. There are many walks through the forests to the hidden waterfalls of the Alta Rocca, including Piscia di Gallo, or Cockerall falls. A short drive inland from Porto Vecchio will bring you to the Ospédale Forest, and some great spots for a picnic.
Mountain restaurant
Try one of the mountain restaurants and indulge your tastebuds with mountain food. Amongst our recommendations are 'Le Refuge' near the Lac de l'Ospedale or 'A Pignata' in the village of Levie.
Bonifacio
At Corsica’s southernmost point, the fortress town of Bonifacio sits in an isolated location perched high on a limestone plateau and surrounded by an expanse of maquis. Mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey, the precipitous white cliffs overhang the turquoise waters below and are honeycombed with old watery grottoes. Established in 833, the old town is rich in history with its dramatic Citadel, ramparts and maze of narrow cobbled streets. The newer harbour has a more Italian flair with an abundance of cafés and restaurants dotted along the Quai Comparetti – the perfect spot to watch the yachts set sail.
Pertusato lighthouse
Walk along the cliffs of Bonifacio to the Pertusato lighthouse and admire the stunning views back towards the town and out over the Straits towards Sardinia.
Roccapina
Try the circular coastal walk around Roccapina in the south west (approx. 1h40), which affords breathtaking views across the beaches of Roccapina and Erbaju. Look out for the lion-shaped rock formation 'le lion de Roccapina' which overlooks the dazzling turquoise-blue bays from its perched position.
Sardinia
Why not take a trip to Sardinia for the day? Take the ferry across (one hour crossing) - market day at Santa Teresa di Gallura is Thursday.
