Car Rental Calvi - Exploring Calvi
Although there is a public transportation system on Corsica, the best way to fully explore the area around Calvi is by car. For sunbathing, you can visit the stunning beaches in and around Calvi and north towards the resort town of L’Ile-Rousse. Alternatively, take a trip to the historic town of Bastia, or go hiking in the centre of the island.
On the nearby heights to the east of Calvi are the five splendid old villages of Palasca, Novella, Urtaca, Lama and Pietralba. Follow the N197 coastal road from Calvi, past L’Ile-Rousse and south, inland to the villages. Tradition lives on in this part of the island, and the locals are welcoming.
From here, keep following the N197 (or N1197) south from Pietralba, then connect with the N193 heading for the central town of Corte. If you’re into hiking, this is the best location on the island to use as a base. Spectacular snow-capped mountains with well marked trails are plentiful here.
If you’d rather relax, you can spend some time in this lively town and take a look at some of its history. The citadel houses the informative Museum of Corsica, dedicated to the history and culture of the island, and is well worth a look.
About 90kms to the east of Calvi, lying in the northeast of Corsica is the port town of Bastia. This bustling, colourful port is dominated by the great 16th century Genoese citadel above the old harbour. The churches of Chapelle Sainte Croix, with its Black Christ, and the ornate Église Sainte Marie lie within the citadel’s walls.
The Italian flavour is evident in the old town, with its typical spaghetti-like streets. Life centres on place St Nicolas, which is an ideal place to stroll and look at the courts and esplanade. Alternatively, wander down to the lively waterfront, which is lined with cafés and restaurants, and flanked by the magnificent Église St Jean Baptiste.
