North Corsica: a guide to discovering it

Published on 10/09/2021 - updated: 01 April 2026 - 5 min read - By Théo Mercier-Balaz

Contents

Key takeaways:

Northern Corsica corresponds to the Haute-Corse department, in the northern half of the Isle of Beauty.
Bastia, Calvi, Cap Corse and the Scandola reserve are among the most visited sites.
Saleccia and Lotu beaches are among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean.
The period from May to October remains ideal for enjoying the climate and outdoor activities.
Many campsites with a water park allow families to stay along the coastline.

The north of Corsica brings together some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Mediterranean. From Bastia to Calvi, the coastline alternates between fine sandy beaches and secluded coves. Inland, mountains and villages complete the picture. Cape Corse, Scandola reserve, Desert of Agriates: the sites to discover are endless. Between hiking, swimming and Genoese heritage, each day promises its share of surprises.

In a camping with water park or on a road trip, here is the essential information to prepare your stay.

What to see in North Corsica?

North Corsica is full of sites to discover, between coastal towns, natural reserves and mountains. Here are the stages not to be missed.

Bastia and Calvi

Bastia, gateway to Upper Corsica, attracts visitors with its old harbor and colorful facades. Continuing westward, you reach Calvi. Its Genoese citadel overlooks a turquoise bay, with mountains as a backdrop.

The Scandola Reserve

The Scandola Natural Reserve is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Accessible only by sea from Porto or Calvi, it is home to volcanic cliffs and great marine biodiversity. It is one of the most protected natural sites in the Mediterranean.

The Desert of Agriates

The Desert of Agriates covers 15,000 hectares of preserved scrubland between Saint-Florent and Île-Rousse. Protected by the Coastal Conservatory, it also hides the beaches of Saleccia and Lotu. You can reach it by boat, 4×4 or on foot.

Corte

Corte, the ancient Corsican capital, is located in the heart of the island’s mountains. Its hilltop citadel overlooks the Restonica valley. The surrounding gorges attract hiking and freshwater swimming enthusiasts.

Claire’s tip: to discover Scandola, choose an early morning boat excursion. The low-angle light highlights the volcanic cliffs and the sea is calm at this hour. You will also avoid the crowds of midday departures.

What beaches to discover in North Corsica?

The coastline of North Corsica is among the most unspoiled on the island. Here are the beaches worth visiting:

The Saleccia beach is located in the Desert of Agriates. Its white sand and transparent waters make it an unspoiled place, accessible by boat or 4×4.
The Lotu beach, next to Saleccia, offers an equally wild setting. A path allows you to link the 2 beaches on foot in about 45 minutes.
The Calvi beach extends several kilometers facing the citadel. Its easy access and shallow waters are perfect for families.
The Bodri beach, between Calvi and Île-Rousse, remains less busy. It’s an ideal alternative for those looking for tranquility.
The Nonza beach, on the west coast of Cape Corse, surprises with its gray and black pebbles. The contrast with the turquoise sea is stunning.

What villages to visit at Cape Corse?

The Cape Corse forms a 40 km peninsula north of Bastia. This wild land is home to authentic villages, clinging between sea and mountain. Here are 3 worth visiting.

Centuri

Centuri is a small fishing port at the tip of Cape Corse. Its houses with green slate roofs surround the harbor. It is also the capital of Corsican lobster. You can taste one in the restaurants by the harbor.

Nonza

Nonza overlooks the west coast of Cape. Its Genoese tower and the Church of Saint-Julie offer a wide panorama over the Gulf of Saint-Florent. Below, the black pebble beach contrasts with the blue of the sea.

Erbalunga

Erbalunga is located just 10 km north of Bastia. This fishing village preserves a ruined Genoese tower at the entrance to the harbor. Each spring, the Cerca procession makes it a cultural meeting point not to be missed.

Preparing your stay in North Corsica

A stay in North Corsica is prepared in a few steps. To reach the island, 2 options are available. Ferries connect Marseille, Toulon or Nice to the port of Bastia. Flights offer direct connections to Bastia and Calvi.

For accommodation, camping remains the preferred solution for families. Many establishments line the coastline and offer water parks with pools and water slides.

Looking to discover North Corsica with the family while enjoying water activities? Book your stay at a camping with water park in Corsica camping-parc-aquatique.fr and find the ideal camping for your next vacation.

FAQ – Visiting Northern Corsica

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between Northern Corsica and Haute-Corse?

Northern Corsica and Haute-Corse refer to the same geographic area. Haute-Corse is the official name of the department (2B). It covers the entire northern half of the island, from Bastia to Calvi via Corte. The term "Northern Corsica" is simply more common in everyday language.

How many days should you plan to visit Northern Corsica?

Allowing at least 7 days lets you visit the major sites of Northern Corsica without rushing. With 10 to 15 days, you can explore Cap Corse, the Agriates, and the inland areas. It all depends on your pace and preferences.

Is it better to visit the north or the south of Corsica?

It all depends on what you're looking for. Northern Corsica is wilder and more mountainous, with a less developed coastline. The south offers more accessible beaches and a more touristy setting. The two parts of the island complement each other nicely if you have enough time.

How do you get to Northern Corsica?

To get to Northern Corsica, there are 2 main options. Ferries depart from Marseille, Toulon, or Nice to the port of Bastia. Flights serve Bastia-Poretta and Calvi-Sainte-Catherine airports from several French cities. The ferry crossing takes between 5 and 12 hours depending on the operator.

Is Northern Corsica suitable for families?

Yes, Northern Corsica is perfectly suited to families. Several beaches, such as Calvi's, offer shallow waters. Campsites with water parks provide activities for all ages. Easy hikes, cultural visits, and swimming keep both kids and adults busy throughout the stay.