We recommend a visit to A Casa di Roccapina in Sartène. This small departmental museum is a unique place nestling in a green setting. We delved into the history of the region, and of the mythical Lion of Roccapina. The tour is divided into 2 parts: the inside of the building, then the outside where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view!
In this article, discover our useful photo tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a great time.
Our favorite car rental platform: DiscoverCars
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is it worth visiting A Casa di Roccapina in Sartène?
Yes, the Roccapina Museum is well worth a visit.
We loved learning more about the mythical Lion of Roccapina, and the history of the region. Through models and an authentic period shelter, you’ll plunge into the daily life of inhabitants from another time. If you’re passionate about rock, this is a must-see.
In our opinion, it’s one of the best museums to visit on the island of beauty. It’s also one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Corse-du-Sud!
What you can see
Models and reconstructions from another era
The tour begins with a general contextualization. Thanks to the scale model and audio guide, we were able to immerse ourselves in the history of the region. This visual aid is highly appreciated, as it is embossed. We also discovered miniature reconstructions of everyday scenes.
The taffoni, rocks of Roccapina
Do you know taffoni? These are rocks hollowed out by erosion, often with original shapes. Find out more here.
Later in the tour, you’ll discover impressive rock formations outside the building. We tried to identify the taffoni, keeping in mind the information we learned in the museum!
Legends of privateers and shipwrecks
Looking back at the history of the region, the museum evokes legends of privateers and shipwrecks. Don’t forget to peek in the windows to imagine privateers invading the island of beauty!
The film The Lion’s Daughter
Before visiting the exterior, you’ll have the chance to watch a short film in a small dark room. This silent, black-and-white film combines love and vendetta!
The discovery trail
This was our favourite part of the tour! Once out of the museum, we made our way along the narrow path that we could see between the tall grasses. Slightly sloping, you’ll need to look at the ground before putting your feet down. The trail is strewn with rocks and asperities. As you progress, you’ll discover some remarkable rock formations.
View of Roccapina rock
Once we reached the highest point of the discovery trail, we were blown away by the view. Blending the sparkling blue of the sea with the intense green of the vegetation, the 360° panorama was breathtaking. We took the opportunity to immortalize the famous Lion of Roccapina. After several minutes of contemplation, we turned towards the rock shelter.
Watch where you put your feet!
The original rock shelter
A strange little rock structure was perched atop this vantage point. As we entered the shelter, we imagined the daily lives of the people who had frequented this atypical place. The few furnishings and objects present testified to a Spartan lifestyle.
A Casa di Roccapina in Sartène: how to get there
Where is the museum?
- In the commune of Sartène,
- From the village of Sartène: 25min drive on the T40,
- Between Roccapina Beach and the Olmeto Tower.
Access by car and parking
We parked in the roadside parking lot opposite the museum. Accessible from the T40 road, you can enjoy an exceptional view of the Corsican landscape.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Corsica
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Public transport access
A bus network operates in the region, but journeys are longer and timetables more restrictive. Find out more here. We didn’t see a bus stop at the museum. It’s really isolated from the inland village of Sartène.
Visiting difficulties
Unfortunately, we do not recommend this tour for people with reduced mobility. We had to take the stairs several times. What’s more, the outdoor course is not really suitable if you have difficulty getting around. The discovery trail is steep, the ground is very uneven, and you even have to climb some rocks.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
EN South Corsica
- Introduction to canyoning at Pulischellu – see photos + availability
- Complete canyoning experience at Pulischellu – see photos + availability
- Via Ferrata near Porto-Vecchio – see photos + availability
- Sea kayaking under the cliffs of Bonifacio – see photos + availability
Visiting the Roccapina Museum: useful tips
Schedules and prices
Schedules:
- open from October 1 to April 30, 9am to 4pm,
- open May 1 to September 30, 10 am to 6 pm.
Closed on public holidays.
Price:
- full price: €2,
- concessions: €1.
During our visit, we were unable to pay by card. We advise you to take species.
See the latest information on the Sartenais Valinco Tourist Office website here.
How long
In our opinion, you should allow between 30min and 1h to tour the museum and enjoy its incredible views.
Best moment
We found it difficult to visit this museum. The first time we went there, it was closed. The second time, it was full because of a group visit. We had to wait 15 minutes to get in. Favour the low season to maximize your chances, and avoid busy periods.
We also advise against coming too late. The museum may close earlier than the times indicated.
Direction of visit
The direction of the visit is quite clear. We began with the rooms inside the museum, which follow on naturally from one another. No questions asked. Before moving outside, we watched a short film called La fille du lion (The Lion’s Daughter).
Equipped with your audioguide, you can continue your visit outside along the discovery trail. Here we enjoyed a breathtaking view of the Roccapina rock.
Eating out
You’ll need to head up the Route de Roccapina towards Sartène to find a good restaurant. Here’s our selection of traditional addresses nearby:
- Restaurant La Ferme de Minora (5min away),
- Restaurant U Sirenu (12min away),
- Restaurant La Bergerie d’Acciola (14min).
For more inspiration, take a look at our selection of the town’s best restaurants.
Hotels
We’ll have to hit the road again to find a quality hotel. The museum is fairly isolated. We recommend that you drive 25 minutes to the village of Sartène.
Discover our 3 favorite establishments in Corsica’s most Corsican city:
- Best Western San Damianu Hotel – see photos, prices and availability.
- Hotel Rossi – see photos, prices and availability.
- Hôtel du Golfe – see photos, prices and availability.
We recommend that you consult our article on the best hotels in Sartène and Propriano for more choice.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN Southern Corsica
Discover our articles on the region:
Discover our articles on Bonifacio:
Discover our articles on Porto-Vecchio
