VILLA PAMPLEMOUSSE 20144 SAINTE LUCIE DE PORTO VECCHIO
Tel: + 33 (0)6 40 52 70 51
Fautea Beach is one of the many gems in Sainte-Lucie-de-Porto-Vecchio. With its Genoese tower built at the end of the 14th century, Fautea has been a protected area since 1979 (under the Conservatoire du littoral). Fautea is a small, white sand beach with turquoise water, surrounded by juniper and pine trees. The sand is perfectly white and extremely fine. There is a footpath leading to a Genoese tower, from which you can enjoy stunning views of the beach. For lunch, try the beach restaurant, which offers fish and shellfish specialties, drinks and ice creams. A great place to spend the day with the family.
The Gulf of Pinarello has a 2 km long beach, regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in southern Corsica. White sand, turquoise water and pine trees make for picture-perfect scenery. Off the coast of Pinarello stands the small island of Ruscana, which has a Genoese tower dating from the 16th century. Pinarello is also a small fishing village with many restaurants and cafés. There are also plenty of sports activities on offer, such as jet skiing, sailing, kite surfing, kayaking, boat rides, etc. For boat rentals, see Corsil.
Citadel of Porto-Vecchio
In 1539 the senators of Genoa suggested to the Office of San Giorgio (a wealthy Genoese bank) that it should build this fortress on a large outcrop of red rock near the bay, with a view to further developing the region and its exports of commodities to Genoa. Despite benefitting from a wide gulf and fertile hinterland, Porto-Vecchio was rather known in those days for malaria and barbarian pirates. Between 1540 and 1589, the citadel was destroyed and rebuilt three times. The Republic of Genoa eventually gave the island to France in 1768. A year later, the troops of King Louis XV settled in this 3-hectare citadel, renaming it the Bastion of France. Guided tours are available (1.5 hrs).
Shopping and vibrant nightlife
In recent years, Porto-Vecchio has become known as a great destination for fashion-lovers. The old town's lanes feature many shops open until midnight (in high season), stocking famous clothing brands, beach equipment, Corsican produce, souvenirs, etc.
The place to party
With a wide selection of wine bars and nightclubs featuring top-class DJs, Porto-Vecchio offers a wealth of options for an unforgettable night on the town.
The port
The port's many bars, ice cream parlours and restaurants give this area a bustling vibe in the high season. The recently built Quai d'honneur offers luxury boats and yachts, and is one of the most modern and eco-friendly features in Europe. A great place to wander around.
Arguably the gem of Corsica, Palombaggia, situated to the south of Porto-Vecchio, is a stunning white sand beach surrounded by a pine forest. Off the coast of Palombaggia the Cerbicale Archipelago is a natural reserve for cormorants and other seabirds. Palombaggia Beach is world-famous for its crystal-clear water, fine sand, extensive pine forest and red rocks. There are traditional beach restaurants (paillottes) and options for renting jet skis, pedalos and lounge chairs.
Figari has a small airport that is well situated for both Porto-Vecchio (20 km) and Bonifacio (15 km). The airport serves domestic and international flights and private aircraft (suitable for both IFR and VFR operations). Air Corsica (in association with Air France) is the main carrier. Ryanair and other low cost airlines also offer seasonal flights to Figari. Figari Airport has the highest volume of private jets traffic in Corsica.
Aéroport de Figari Sud Corse
20114 Figari
Tel: +33 (0)4 95 71 10 10
Website »
Idyllic Corsican scenery - perhaps the most beautiful golf course in the world! This 18-hole golf course has a pro shop and a restaurant with lovely views over the course and the coastline. Golf lessons with pro Hugues Marconi are available.
