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Home » Calvi and its region

Visit La Balagne (Corsica): 15 things to do + tips

by Claire | January 28, 2023 | no intrusive ads, no sponsored content, just some affiliate links - if you use them, we get a small commission (détails)

Between the sea and the mountains, the region of La Balagne is a little jewel that offers a lot to the visitors: beautiful beaches, towns of character, authentic villages and breathtaking views.
Here is our complete guide with all our tips, based on our visits:

  • Map, how to get there
  • best things to do in La Balagne: towns, villages and beaches
  • Where to sleep
  • …

We wish you wonderful experiences!

visit the balagne what to do Corsica
Content
Why visit La Balagne Region in Corsica? What to do? – summary
1. Calvi, its citadel and its beach
2. Île-Rousse and the Pietra islands
3 à 5. Explore the villages of the Balagne
6 à 11. The beaches of the Balagne
12 à 14. Other activities in Balagne
17 to 19 – Excursions from Balagne
Where to stay in Balagne
Where to eat in Balagne – best restaurants
Visiting the Balagne – Tips

Why visit La Balagne Region in Corsica? What to do? – summary

One of the most beautiful destinations in Corsica

If you are looking for a varied region with a pleasant way of life and not too complicated traffic, choose La Balagne. You will find:

  • Two beautiful cities with very different characters
  • Fine sandy beaches
  • Rock formations as a change from sand
  • Villages of character on the heights with beautiful views
  • Lots of good local products to enjoy
  • …

It is one of the most beautiful regions to visit in Corsica(see our list).

Citadel, sea and mountain

Where is La Balagne

To clarify a bit:

  • North west of Corsica
  • Around the towns of Calvi and Ile-Rousse
  • Southern limit = Gulf of Calvi
  • Northern boundary = mouth of the Regino
  • The coast but also the inland to the mountains of medium altitude.
  • Here is a map to help you find your way
  • and see all our tips for planning a dream trip to Corsica here
Map what to do Corsica Balagne visit
Map – La Balagne in Corsica

Things to do in La Balagne

We introduce you all our favorite places in the article but to summarize, the must-sees according to us are

  • Visit the citadel of Calvi, and admire it from the beach
  • Notice the differences with the city of Ile-Rousse and visit its islands
  • Visit at least 2 villages in Balagne: for example Pigna and Sant Antonino
  • Relaxing on a sandy beach such as Bodri
  • Fun on the rocks of Punta di Spanu
Beach of Balagne - Punta di Spanu 2
Punta di Spanu

How to get there

You may arrive:

Airplane
Directly to Calvi airport: Calvi Sainte Catherine – you can find direct flights from cities in France and some cities in Europe.
See the flights

Ferries to Ile-Rousse
Ferries to Ile-Rousse

Ferry
Directly by ferry to Ile-Rousse. The city is served from:

  • Marseille (France) in 11:30 with Corsica Linea
  • Nice (France) in 4h15 with Corsica Ferries
  • Toulon (France) in 7 with Corsica Ferries
  • Livorno (Italy) in 5h30 with Corsica Ferries
  • Compare prices and schedules, and book
  • See our guide to choosing which ferry to take to Corsica.

By ferry or plane + car. You can easily reach the Balagne by car from Ajaccio and Bastia.

And now here are all our suggestions of the best things to do in Balagne.

Need to rent a car in Corsica?

Our advice:

  • 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.

See our tips

See the cars arrow

More advice at the end of the article after the places to see: when to go, how long…

1. Calvi, its citadel and its beach

Downtown Calvi, City of Balagne
City of Calvi

Calvi is a tourist center since the 1920s.
It is a fairly important city with its airport and marina.
The city is concentrated around the marina where you can stroll and sit at a terrace.

The beach of Calvi

Beach of Calvi Corsica 1
Beach of Calvi

One of the main attractions of Calvi is that there is a large beach in the center of the city.
This famous beach is called La Pinède. Its name is due to all the pine trees along the beach.
It is a 5 km long arch of white sand that offers a perfect view of the citadel at the end of the bay.

We recommend a quiet walk in the morning as the sun rises.
Calvi is a beautiful town to stay in and explore the region.
We recommend the Casa Bianca hotel with its modern decor and beautiful views
– see pictures and availability
or see the best rated accommodations in Calvi

The citadel

Citadel of Calvi
Citadel of Calvi

Calvi is very recognizable for its citadel located on a peninsula.
Start by admiring it from the beach, then go and get lost in its alleys!

It was built under the Genoese government, between 1483 and the seventeenth century in order to have stronger defenses. There are impressive fortifications all around.

Note: we really don’t recommend the citadel to people with walking difficulties. There are many slopes and stairs and the ground is covered with uneven pavement.
Learn more about the citadel and see all the best things to do in Calvi.

2. Île-Rousse and the Pietra islands

l'Île-Rousse
l’Île-Rousse

Île-Rousse is the other big city of the Balagne. It is very different from Calvi and other Corsican cities.
It was founded by the most famous leader of the Corsican people Pasquale Paoli in 1758 (although the place has been inhabited since antiquity). He wanted a port that was not controlled by the Genoese.
See our guide to visit Ile-Rousse.

Downtown and the beach

beach and center of Ile-Rousse

In this port city, the roads are straight and the architecture dates mostly from the late 18th to early 19th century.
You will find a church, a covered market, and pedestrian streets.
And L’Île-Rousse has its own fine sandy beach in town. Right next to the Pascal Paoli square. You can really do everything on foot!

The Pietra Islands

What to do in Balagne - Ile-Rousse Corsica

The main thing to do in Ile-Rousse is to enjoy the island walk to the top of the lighthouse. It all starts on the seaside promenade, on foot or by tourist train.
What makes the area famous is the series of rocky islands of red porphyry. This vibrant color is what attracts many visitors.
It is even more beautiful at the beginning or end of the day when the sun is low and the colors are even more vibrant.
L’Île-Rousse is a great place to stay to explore the Balagne region.
For example, the Rocabella Hotel in the heart of the city, with a soothing natural setting.
– see prices, pictures and availability
or see the best rated accommodations in Ile-Rousse

Planning a dream trip to Corsica?

  • 7 maps that make planning easier
  • 130+ pre-selected locations
  • Practical advice
  • + 220 photos to help you choose
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3 à 5. Explore the villages of the Balagne

villages of Balagne Corsica 7

The Balagne region is famous for its charming villages spread over the hills between the mountains and the sea.
There are a lot of nice little “fortress villages” with great views and a long history.
The buildings are full of alleys, stone houses and construction using rocks as part of the walls!
Here are some of our favorites to include in your itinerary.

3. Pigna

villages of Balagne in Corsica - Pigna

Small village not far from the sea, Pigna is quite touristy, but charming.
This village has been highlighted with its blue shutters on all the houses. It is therefore very photogenic.
This pedestrian village is full of small stores where artists work and sell their pieces: potters, violin makers, engravers…
Located on top of a rocky hill, it offers a breathtaking view of the village of Corbara and the sea.
It is one of the most beautiful villages of Corsica(see our list).
See more photos.

4. Speloncato

villages of Balagne in Corsica -Speluncato

Built on a rocky spur, Speloncato is a typical village of the Balagne region.
We love it because it is less touristy.
We love the views and also the way the hill and rocks are part of the architecture, 570m above the sea water.
The place has a long history, with evidence that it was inhabited during the Neolithic period. The village began to develop in the Bronze Age.
This is one of the villages where we had the most fun exploring.
See more photos.

5. Sant’Antonino

villages of Balagne in Corsica 3


Sant’Antonino would also have its origin in the IX century. It is one of the oldest villages in Corsica.
Located at the top of a hill, at an altitude of 500m, it dominates all that surrounds it.
Its houses are very close to each other, creating a maze of narrow streets to facilitate defense against attackers.
See more photos.

Other villages of La Balagne to visit

It is really fun to explore these villages. They are like labyrinths. It’s a good thing they’re not big, because you could easily get lost!
Many of them even have tunnels.
See our complete list in this other article.

villages of Balagne Corsica 6

If you love them, there are even more to visit:

  • Lumio
  • Corbara
  • Monticello
  • Muro
  • Feliceto
  • Nessa
  • Belgodère
  • …

For quality tips, support us!

Do you enjoy all the free content you find on our blog, without intrusive ads?
Our independence, the only guarantee of qualitytips, is partly based on your generosity!
We offer you to give us a coffee (or several) in the hope of sharing it with you one day in person!

Claire Manu Region Lovers
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6 à 11. The beaches of the Balagne

fine sand of the Balagne

As we saw earlier, you can already enjoy the beautiful beaches of Calvi and L’Île-Rousse. But you can also drive a little but not long, to discover more wild and beautiful beaches!

6. Beachof Calvi

Beach of Calvi Corse 2

A beautiful long sandy beach, bordered by pine trees and facing the citadel.
However, being in a city and easy to access, it is very busy in summer!

7. Beachof L’Île-Rousse

beach of L'Île-Rousse

A nice sandy beach with a view of the islands and the bay.
It is really not big but charming.
However, being in a city and easy to access, it is very busy in summer!

8. Bodri Beach

Beach of Balagne - Bodri

Driving time from Calvi = 30min
Driving time from Ile-Rousse = 10min

If you’re looking for beautiful white sand in beautiful surroundings, head to Bodri.
This beach is just south of Ile-Rousse.
The parking lot is paid in summer but free the rest of the year or you can reach it by train.
From the car, it is a 5 minute walk to the beach.
See more photos.

9. Beach of Ghjunchitu

Beaches near Ile Rousse - Beach of Ghjunchitu

From Bodri, there is a beautiful 10-minute walk to its neighbor, Ghjunchitu beach. We highly recommend the walk through the Mediterranean scrub with the sand.
It is one of the beaches with the finest sand in Corsica.
See more photos.

10. Punta di Spanu

Beach of Balagne - Punta di Spanu

Driving time from Calvi = 20min
Driving time from Ile-Rousse = 25min

For something different, go to the other end of the bay to Punta di Spanu.
You will need a car to get there and the road has big holes at the end, so drive slowly. It is 20 minutes drive from Calvi.

The corner has only two small sandy areas. However, there are plenty of giant boulders to play with!
See more photos.
It is one of our favorite places in Corsica.

11. Thebeach of Alga

Alga beach

And south of Calvi, you can visit the peninsula of La Revalatta.
There is a large parking lot at its base where you can admire the whole peninsula.
You can reach it by car, or enjoy a hike along the Sentiers des Douaniers.
Then you can explore the area with its boulders, small streams and turquoise waters.
This one is the beach of Alga:

Other beaches of the Balagne

These are our favorites, but you can still find other beaches in the vicinity of Ile-Rousse and Calvi:

  • Beach of Aregno
  • Beach of Arinella
  • Beach of Sant’Ambroggio
  • Beach of Cala di Furnellu
  • Beach of the Davia Navy
  • …

See our article with our favorite beaches in Balagne.

Plan your trip to Corsica!

→ Inspiration destinations

Best things to do in Corsica

Ajaccio or Bastia?

Planning a road trip in Corsica

Itinerary: 3 days – 4 or 5 days

→ Best-of

The most beautiful beaches of Corsica

The most beautiful villages of Corsica

The most beautiful cities of Corsica

The most beautiful destinations in Corsica

→ Practice

Where to sleep in Corsica

Which ferry to Corsica

How to get to Corsica


See all our tips for a successful trip to Corsica arrow

12 à 14. Other activities in Balagne

12. U Trinichellu: Train between Calvi and Ile-Rousse

What to do in Balagne - Train to Ile-Rousse, U Trinichellu 1

If you don’t have a car (and even if you do), consider taking the train to U Trinichellu.
This tourist train runs during the summer from Calvi to Ile-Rousse and back, stopping several times along the way near the beaches.
It stays along the coast the whole time offering splendid views to the travelers!
It takes 45 minutes for a one-way trip, and they often run every hour in the summer.

What to do in Balagne - Train to Ile-Rousse, U Trinichellu 2

13. Park of Saleccia

Spend a relaxing moment surrounded by nature.
The Park of Saleccia is a magnificent garden with Corsican flora: maquis, pines, myrtles and fig trees, and several types of olive trees.
Latest news on the official website

14. Baptism of diving

If you have always wanted to discover diving, why not start here?
You can find diving lessons:

  • from Calvi – see details
  • from L’Île-Rousse – see details

And if it’s not your first time, you can find nice outings to explore the Balagne seabed – see options

15. Hiking in Balagne (and mountain biking)

Beach of Balagne - La revelatta 1
La Revelatta

If you want to make beautiful hikes in the Balagne region, consider:

  • The tip of Revelatta – 2h30 loop in the wilderness until the end of the peninsula.
  • From Île-Rousse to the village of Monticello (8km)
  • Ascent of Monte Sant’Angelo from Corbara (1H30)
  • In Lozari: 2-hour loop along the sea
  • and many others

There are also many mountain bike circuits in the Balagne. At the moment we don’t know anything about it but we will try to find someone who does.

16. The mountains of the Balagne: forest of Bonifato

If you feel a little hot near the sea, why not go up to the mountains of La Balagne to cool off.
Above Calvi (20km), you discover the Bonifato forest, surrounded by steep walls. It is one of the lungs of La Balagne.
You can hike, fish, climb, or discover part of the famous GR20.
But above all, you can swim in the river with its hidden natural pools.

How to get to Corsica

Option 1: by ferry
Departure from France and Italy – see all options in our article
or directly compare schedules, prices and availability
Advantage: you can take your car

Option 2: by plane
Airports in Bastia, to visit the North, Figari to visit the South, or Ajaccio convenient for all Corsica.
Compare prices and availability ofairline tickets
And then rent a car: see our favorite comparator

If you are traveling in the summer, remember to book early to get the best prices and choices!


Need more help choosing?
See our advice on how to go to Corsica


17 to 19 – Excursions from Balagne

17. Boat to the calanques de Piana and Scandola

Excursions Calvi - Piana Scandola

Calvi to Porto Ota = 2h drive

In the south of Balagne, the Gulf of Porto shelters the fabulous calanques de Piana and the natural reserve of Scandola. This site is a Unesco heritage site.
The landscapes of pink and red cliffs are exceptional.
It is one of the most beautiful corners of Corsica.

To explore it, you have 2 options:

  • 2h drive from Calvi then boat from Porto Ota (the road is beautiful!)
  • Excursion by boat directly from Calvi

See a lot of options for boat tours on Viator and on Getyourguide.

18. Desert of Agriates

Excursions Calvi - Desert of Agriates

Calvi to St Florent – 1h40 by car

In the north of La Balagne, the desert of Agraites is a protected area with a beautiful wild rocky terrain and heavenly beaches(see our guide).
The whole area is only accessible by boat or 4WD or by boat or on foot.

The most famous beach is Saleccia with white sand dunes and turquoise water sparkling under the sun.

To explore it, you have 2 options:

  • 1h40 drive to Saint-Florent and boat then walk
  • 4WD excursion directly from Calvi – see program and availability

19. The Ostriconi

beach of Ostriconi

On the way to the Agruates desert, you cross the Ostriconi region.
It begins with the beach of Lozari and ends with the superb beach of Ostriconi (our favorite in Corsica).
You need a car to explore this area but it’s worth it!
The beaches are superb.

Where to stay in Balagne

Where to stay in La Balagne

The Balagne is a superb region to stay in during your vacations in Corsica.
Here are our suggestions.

Option 1 – Île-Rousse

At the arrival of the ferry, a very well located city with a lot of charm. It is also easy to walk around and explore the area.
For example, the Rocabella Hotel in the heart of the city, with a soothing natural setting.
– see prices, pictures and availability
or see the best rated accommodations in Ile-Rousse

Sleeping in Ile-Rousse - Hotel Casa Rossa
Casa Rossa Hotel

Option 2 – Calvi

Calvi is the main town in the Balagne region and offers picturesque views from all angles.
Citadel, mountains, villages, boat trips… there’s plenty to do!
We recommend the Casa Bianca hotel with its modern decor and beautiful views
– see pictures and availability
or see the best rated accommodations

Sleeping in Calvi

Option 3 – on the heights, around the villages of La Balagne

And if you prefer the calm, you can go to isolate you a little between its 2 big cities in the hills of Balagne. We suggest:
Hotel Le Domaine Casale Olmia in the hills – see photos and availability
Hotel A Casa Di Mà (in Lumio) with swimming pool – see photos and availability
Beautiful waterfront hotel between the 2 cities – see pictures and availability
Hotel La Santa with its infinity pool facing the view – see photos and availability


See our complete guide on where to sleep in the Balagne (coming soon)


Where to eat in Balagne – best restaurants

Charcuterie and Corsican cheese
Charcuterie and Corsican cheese

In Calvi we recommend:

La Signoria restaurant (starred)
The table of the heavenly Relais et Chateaux La Signoria is at the height of the place facing the forest of Bonifato: balance of flavors and cooking with exceptional dishes (porcini, pike, chuck…)

The restaurant Ile de Beauté (brasserie)
Whether you choose the terrace facing the port or the carefully decorated dining room, you will enjoy a convivial bistro cuisine, from pan-fried calamari with parsley to braised lamb mice.

The Via Marine restaurant (market cuisine)
In a very pleasant setting, you will be able to taste a creative cuisine as we like it.

In Ile-Rousse we recommend:

U Bistrotellu d’a Quadrera (market cuisine)
In one of the alleys of the city, a restaurant which handles humor and very good Corsican family recipes.

The Restaurant Le Rendez-Vous
A must in Ile Rousse, the restaurant of the hotel L’escale Côté Sud which offers not one, but two terraces with a breathtaking view on the bay. The menu is wide, enough to satisfy all tastes and appetites.

Acula Marina Restaurant
A restaurant with its feet in the water, overlooking the beach of Caruchettu. What a pleasure to taste swordfish a la plancha or paccheri Sicilian style in such a setting!

For quality tips, support us!

Do you enjoy all the free content you find on our blog, without intrusive ads?
Our independence, the only guarantee of qualitytips, is partly based on your generosity!
We offer you to give us a coffee (or several) in the hope of sharing it with you one day in person!

Claire Manu Region Lovers
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Visiting the Balagne – Tips

When to go to Balagne

As for the rest of Corsica,

  • the temperatures are most pleasant from April to October.
  • sea temperatures are best for swimming from mid-June to mid-October
  • and the crowds invade the beaches in July and August

How long to visit the Balagne

For a glimpse of all that Balagne has to offer, you should allow 3 days:

  • 1 day in Calvi
  • 1 day in the villages
  • 1 day on the side of L’Île-Rousse

But to fully enjoy the area, you should allow a week.
But you can spend an entire vacation just in this area. There is a lot to see!

What is the most beautiful beach in Balagne?

It depends on what is most important to you…
Our favorite is Punta di Spanu because we love the colored rocks.
If you are looking for beautiful sand and a wild beach, consider Bodri
And if you’re looking for a beach that’s super easy to get to, then Calvi’s is for you.

Calvi or Ile-Rousse: where to stay?

The 2 seaside towns of the Balagne are excellent options for your vacation.
To stay more in the city, with more bars and more beaches, choose Calvi.
For a town with more charm and a quieter atmosphere, choose L’Île-Rousse.
See our complete comparison: Calvi or Ile-Rousse.

About the bloggers…

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