The Balagne

The region of Balagne, in the north west corner of the island is divided between sea and mountains. The towns of Galéria, Calvi and Ile-Rousse by the sea contrast with the perched villages inland where artisans make live art and culture through a knowledge passed down through the generations.

The region of Balagne

Known as the "Garden of Corsica" the area is rich in wine-growing land that will make you discover the flavors of a strong identity already known in Antiquity. The cultivation of olive trees for oil began with the Greeks from the sixth century BC and continues today with subtle quality oils with refined taste.

Other local products such as honey, cheese and dried meat promise you great gastronomic discoveries growing unique flavors coming through the "maquis", our corsican bush.

Bienveilland under the gaze of Our Lady of the Serra and the protection of its Citadel, Calvi welcomes you for a moment of relaxation on the fine-sand beach (5km), a stroll through its streets, take a drink at the harbour before sampling Corsican dishes around a fine table. The evening will end in the festive atmosphere of the unevitable nights of Calvi at the pub Chez Tao.

Calvi invites you to discover its history and its heritage with a visit to its Citadel and its churches. Its location makes it an ideal starting point to visit the villages of Balagne, rich in history, such as Sant'Antonino (classified one of the most beautiful villages in France) or Calenzana (famous for its polyphony festival and as village trailhead GR20). Go and meet passionate artisans thanks to the Fiera di Alivu (olive fair), admire the work of glassblowers in Feliceto or potters in Pigna. For nature lovers, a trip in the forest of Bonifatu or a dip in the river Fango is strongly advised.

Starting north, do not miss Saint Florent and the desert of Agriates, the only french desert. Driving inland, the ancient capital of Corsica Corte reveal his fortress and museum permanent exhibits on local history and temporary on current topics. Descending to the south west, Galeria and Porto are the gates of the Maritime Natural Reserve of Scandola and the cliffs of Piana, one of the sites listed as World Heritage by UNESCO. Several operators offer to take you by the sea at the foot of the cliffs, sometimes a beautiful occasion to encounter our marine life.

Why not try to find the high perched nests of our local lords: the ospreys or sea hawks.

Culture, excitement, gastronomy... Your curiosity and desires will be met by the Island of Beauty.