The departement of Haut-Corse, or Upper Corsica, is located in the north of the Mediterranean island of Corsica, a popular holiday destination with people from all over France and Europe. As well as being home to beautiful beaches, stunning mountain scenery and interesting, historic towns Haut-Corse is also where some of the oldest settlements on the whole island can be found. The remains of Aleria, a 6th century BC settlement, is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Corsica and well worth dragging yourself away from the beach for a couple of hours!
L'Ile Rousse on the west coast of Corsica is one of the most popular and picturesque seaside resorts on the whole island. There are several small sandy beaches within walking distance of the main town square, with its intriguing market hall and outdoor cafes. Saint Florent was once a major Genoese town on the island, but is now a popular tourist resort which is very lively in the summer months. There is an attractive promenade with bars and cafes, a pier and a traditional Genoese-style old town with painted houses. For those who prefer something more active than lying on the beach all day, Saint Florent is also the starting point for one of Corsica's many walking routes, the Agriates coast footpath, a route between the sea and the Agriates desert inland.
The coastal town of Bastia has some small beaches, but it is more popular because of its old town and 15th century citadel. Sunday morning is a great time to visit Bastia when the weekly market is taking place and most of the local residents are out taking a stroll along with the tourists. In the far north of the island is the Corsica Cape, a 40 kilometre long peninsula sticking out into the Mediterranean from the main body of the island. The coastline here is more wild and rugged, with steep cliffs and rocky coves and typical Genoese villages overlooking the beaches. There are several walking trails on the peninsula that follow the coast, with great views over the sea as you walk.
The highest point on the island of Corsica, Monte Cinto, is located within Haut-Corse. At nearly 3,000 metres high, this is a climb that is for experienced walkers only and should not be tackled without the proper equipment. There are several other hills and smaller mountains in the same range that are much easier to climb, while still offering spectacular views in every direction. The interior of Corsica is home to many gorges and valleys, including the Restonica gorge where tourists can go swimming, kayaking or just enjoy walking along the banks of the river or along the top of the gorge itself.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Haute-Corse? Then below is a selection of gites in Haute-Corse and villas in Haute-Corse that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
