Holidays to Southern Corsica

Why Southern Corsica?

As well as a combination of natural beauty, fantastic architecture and prehistoric sites, there are many sandy beaches and water activities to enjoy. One of the more popular destinations is the medieval town of Bonifacio with its high white cliffs. But visitors can also explore Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon. Along with gastronomy and outdoor activities, travellers of every ilk will have an abundance of choice in Southern Corsica.

Popular areas to stay in Southern Corsica

Stuck on where to go? Check out the best resorts and towns to base your holiday

Ajaccio

The capital or Corsica, Ajaccio, was the birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte, and today his ancestral home is a museum. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral to see paintings by Delacroix and Tintoretto. Then wander the streets of the old town, taking in the architecture; then, perhaps, head down to the harbour, with its promenade lined with palm trees, restaurants and cafés.

Who is it for?

Shoppers

Take a stroll along the rue du Cardinal Fesch, the town's main shopping thoroughfare.

Foodies

The French hold Corsican cured meats in high regard. Pop into a rustic eatery for an assiette de charcuterie.

Culture Vultures

With its illustrious son, Bonaparte, this island has huge significance for French history.

Room price from

£24

per person per night

Cala Rossa

With its charming old world glamour, Cala Rossa harks back to the days when the great and the good of France and Italy would holiday. Today, it is home to one of the grandest hotels on the island and its sophisticated appeal has spread across the world. You’ll find a broad swathe of reddish coloured sand and a couple of decent bars and restaurants.

Who is it for?

Foodies

When it comes to dining, the cheeses and charcuterie are especially good.

Beach Lovers

Cala Rossa gets its name from its pretty red coloured sand. The Grand Hotel, at one end, has a private cove.

Nature Lovers

Lush green slopes encircle the beach, offering respite from the sun and a lovely place to stroll.

Room price from

£35

per person per night

Torraccia

Wine fans will love this region of Southern Corsica, with its vast vineyards overlooking the sparkly blue Mediterranean Sea. Domaine de Torraccia was planted from scratch around 50 years ago and is still run by the same family. Although Corsican wine is not among France’s most celebrated, this region is producing vintages that are fast changing people’s preconceptions.

Foodies

Food and wine lovers can come here to sample the celebrated cheeses, charcuterie and local wine.

NatureLovers

You’re immersed in the Corsican countryside here, with beautiful vineyards and wild flowers all around.

Room price from

£35

per person per night

Appietto

Located in the south east of the island of Corsica, Appietto is a traditional village nestled in the hills, overlooking a wonderful arc of buttery soft sand and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a beautiful area, with huge cliff faces, verdant mountains and winding roads taking you up into the town. There are some lovely restaurants inland and on the coast, specialising in Corsican delights, such as cured meats, local cheeses and fresh fish.

Who is it for?

Couples

This place feels less touristy and more secluded than others on the island.

Families

Kids will love paddling in the sea.

Nature Lovers

The hilly landscape is perfect for people who like to trek. Buy a few supplies and enjoy a picnic while looking out over the Med.

Room price from

£24

per person per night

Calcatoggio

Located in the hills about 300 metres above sea level and overlooking the Bay of Liscia, Calcatoggio has the best of both worlds: the verdant cool of the hills and 10 kilometres of sandy beach. With a population of under 500, it’s not a buzzing place, but there are some family run restaurants out this way, serving seafood, local wines, cheeses and meats. It’s a fiercely independent area, and, despite 200 years of French rule, remains distinctly Corsican.