CALVI: DISCOVER
NORTHERN CORSICA
Calvi’s thousand kilometers of coast in the northwestern part of Corsica make it a beloved destination of yacht charters. Calvi is within reach of all the many beaches and inlets that dot the surrounding region of Balagna. A Caribbean-like atmosphere of pearl-white shores and transparent waters makes this a perfect destination for excursions, snorkeling, and scubadiving.
Calvi, built by the Genoese in the 4th century and encircled by walls, is an architectural gem set in the rocky cliffs of Haute-Corse. The town beckons with its ancient history, crags, and many bays and coves to dip into the transparent waters of this sea.
A walk down the streets of the Citadel (the old fort that defended the city from pirate attacks), rimmed with historical buildings and open-air cafes and dominated by the baroque Church of Saint Mary, is one of the obligatory activities of a yacht cruise of Corsica.
The beaches in Balagna, strips of Caribbean-like fine white sand and transparent waters attracting snorkelers and scuba divers, can be reached easily from Calvi on a yacht. Other attractions to hit on a yacht charter in Northern Corsica are the lovely Saleccia, located in the Nature Reserve of the Désert des Agriates, that can be accessed on foot after a 12-km circuitous route. Backed by picturesque dunes and plush Mediterranean vegetation, this site boasts a soft strip of pale sand and picture-perfect views of wild, unspoiled nature.
Fans of water sports like windsurfing and kayaking love this site, while those who prefer to stay in the nature can opt for a horse ride on the beach or in the hinterland.