Car Hire Bastia - Mini guide to Bastia

Corsica consists of vast areas of unspoilt scenery, from the pristine beaches around the northern coastline to the lakes and snow-capped mountains of the interior. The only real way to truly appreciate the north of the island is with your own transport, and there is plenty to see within a couple hours drive of the port.

To the south of Bastia lies the town of Santa Lucia di Moriani with its historic baths, basilica and churches. The 16-kilometre beach is great for swimming, and the woods flanking the beach provide welcome relief from the midday sun.

For some spectacular views and to see the massive hanging rock, take a trip up Cape Corse peninsula, north of the city. Afterwards, head inland towards the western coast, passing olive trees and vineyards on the way to little white towns in the countryside.

The best beaches can be found around Calvi, one of the busiest resorts on the island, located in the northwest of Corsica. The beautiful turquoise waters of the Golfe de Calvi surround the town, and the coast of L’Ile-Rousse is to the north.

To get to Calvi from Bastia, follow the D81 highway and the N197 coastal road. Look out for the town citadel on the approach to Calvi port. Life is centred on the Basse Ville in the town, which is where you’ll find the resorts’ many hotels, restaurants and bars.

The lively town of Corte is located at the heart of the island and marks the natural boundary between northern and southern Corsica. The old town citadel houses the Museum of Corsica, which is dedicated to Corsican history, culture and economics. Because of its central location, Corte is a good point from which to explore the nearby unspoilt snow-capped mountains, and hiking is very popular here.