What to do in Balagne

L’Île-Rousse is one of the greatest spots for scuba diving and snorkeling on the island of Corsica. It is a city located 70km west from Bastia and 25 km east from Calvi and the 3rd biggest port after Bastia and Ajaccio.

Built between the 18th and 19th century, the city centre is filled with narrow streets that lead you to the beautiful Mediterranean coastline. The famous island of the Pietra, linked to L’Île-Rousse through a dike, is the symbol of the city. Its old lighthouse and the ruins of its tower dating back from the 16th century make it a very unique islet which is worth visiting

You can also chill out with your family and friends on Napoléon and Caruchettu beaches. The two main beaches of L’Île-Rousse offer different nautical activities in order to spend good times during your stay. It is however outside the city that you will find the most beautiful beaches. In the direction of Corbara in the south, Bodri and Giunchetu long wild beaches benefit from fine sand and clear water… everything you need to relax!

Only 30 km south from the town, Sant’Antonino village is one of the most beautiful and oldest French villages. Located at the top of a 500-metre hill, it offers a wonderful view over the plains and sea from Castello ruins. Sant’Antonino and its surroundings are a great spot for hiking and donkey rides! Here, different hiking trails are available to discover the beautiful landscapes of the region of Balagne.

L’Île-Rousse is the ideal place on the island of beauties to practice nautical activities such as windsurfing, jet-skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling and many more! More specifically, scuba diving and snorkeling are very popular. Epir Plongée diving club offers snorkeling excursions, adventure and first scuba dives for all levels.

You can go on adventure dives on different spots located only a few minutes from the port. You will have the chance to swim through the slopes, rocky peaks, canyons, plateaus and rocky inlets and discover the incredible fauna and flora of the Mediterranean Sea. Beginners will be able to choose among first scuba dives and PADI courses: explore the subaquatic world safely with experimented instructors who will guide and reassure you.

You can also gear up in a wetsuit, fins, mask, and snorkel and observe the submarine world from the surface of the water during a snorkeling excursion. Your instructor will provide you with guidance to ensure you get the most out of your underwater exploration. Just make sure you keep your eyes open!

If you love to practice water sports and explore the underwater world, L'Île-Rousse is definitely THE spot to be!