Saint Florent, a quaint fishing and market-garden village, is one of Haute-Corse’s must-see destinations. A little gem tucked between Cap Corse and Balagne, the village was once a Genoese port. Many visitors come to this charming, mini seaside resort. It’s one of my favourite spots on this beautiful island. Read this article to find out why…
Things to do in Saint Florent
Take a walk around the Citadel
to admire the view over the Gulf of Saint Florent. Built in the 15th century, its strategic position enabled it to protect not only the town but also nearby Bastia. It was the site of one of the greatest battles of its time and one of the first Corsican towns occupied by the Genoese. Although the Citadel is not generally open to the public, it does host exhibitions and festivals. I just adore the view of the Gulf from the ramparts!
Stroll through the old quarter and along the marina
Admire the fishing boats and yachts along the marina. Take in the view of the gulf from Marinaccio quay with the Cap Corse mountains on one side and the scrubland on the other. Explore the village as you weave through the narrow streets to Piazza Doria with its fountain and the Church of Sainte-Anne. Shop in the boutiques, including those of local fashion designers Benoa and Osanna. For an afternoon treat, enjoy an ice cream on the terrace in Place des Portes, and after dusk, indulge in a cocktail from one of the bars or dine at one of the harbour-side restaurants.
Take a trip out to sea
to admire Saint Florent from a different angle or set sail for the villages of Cap Corse. There are many local agencies offering their services with a range of excursions to choose from.
Set off on an adventure through the Agriates desert
a vast expanse of maquis or scrubland. This uninhabited wilderness can be explored in a variety of ways: by quad bike, mountain bike, kayak, boat or 4×4. For the sporty ones out there, you can hike the famous sentier des douaniers (“customs officer’s path”). One of its highlights is discovering Saleccia and Lotu, two of the best beaches the region has to offer.
Water sports
For scuba diving enthusiasts, there’s a wealth of underwater wildlife to explore. After all, the Gulf of Saint Florent is known for being home to the largest colony of bottlenose dolphins in Corsica. Keep your eyes peeled! If you’re feeling really bold, you can opt for a water-skiing outing.
Hike up to the Mortella tower
Reached by a winding road leading up from Roya beach, hike up to the remains of a tower dating back to 1520 that was built to guard against pirates. This pleasant route runs along the entire length of the coastline. You’ll feel like the last soul on earth!
Saint Florent’s loveliest beaches
Saleccia beach
Welcome to paradise on earth! With its crystal-clear waters, this 1200-metre-long beach is completely unspoilt. Situated in the heart of the Agriates desert, it remains wild and boasts lush vegetation. I’ve never seen sand as white as here! As one of my favourite beaches, I can’t put into words how it makes me feel when I’m there. It’s magical.
There are 3 options for getting there: by boat from Saint Florent with a company like Le Popeye or Taxi Beach, by 4×4 with Saleccia off Road, or on foot, following the path along the D81 for a 4-5 hour trek.
Remember to book in advance during the high season.
Lotu Beach
400 metres of white sand and turquoise waters to die for! Nature reigns supreme here. I think this beach is even more untamed than Saleccia. Why? Because you might even bump into some cows! They love sunbathing too! There’s also a long wooden jetty stretching out over the turquoise waters where boats moor. This is the perfect place for an Instagram shot. It’s just like a postcard! This beach is also accessible by boat from Saint Florent.
Where to dine in Saint Florent
Le petit Caporal
This iconic restaurant, dating back to 1921, offers a wide selection of pastas, meats and wood-fired pizzas, as well as freshly caught seafood such as octopus from Cap Corse. For dessert, I recommend tiramisu or Fiadone, an island speciality made with brocciu cheese and lemon.
Getting there: 21 rue du Centre – 06 09 59 55 54
La crique
This is THE waterfront restaurant in Saint Florent. On the menu: wood-grilled meats and fish, spaghetti with prawns, lobster, sweet delicacies with a twist… Dine as you admire the sun setting on the horizon. An ideal setting for a romantic getaway.
Getting there: Lieu dit Citadelle – 06 03 66 55 67
Le Bectoir
Soak up the atmosphere with a cocktail before dining on fresh, high-quality local dishes in a relaxing setting right on the harbour. A special mention goes to the risotto, the sea bream ceviche and the tapas!
Getting there: Port de plaisance – 06 25 79 79 53
Things to do around Saint Florent
Visit the church of San Michele in Murato
Instantly recognisable thanks to its checkerboard pattern made up of alternating white (limestone from Saint Florent) and green (serpentine from the Bevinco river) stone.
Listed as a historic monument in 1875 and voted “most elegant and prettiest church in Corsica” in 1839 by the Inspector General of Historic Monuments, you need to see this building for yourself to fully appreciate its significance. It gives off vibes of intense energy, nature, calm and serenity. You’ll feel good here.
Getting there: Follow the D82 from Saint Florent. The church is on the D5, at the entrance to the village of Murato, set in its own grounds.
Discover the neighbouring villages of Cap Corse like Nonza and Canari
The villages are high up on the mountainside, so you’re bound to be treated to some stunning views along the way.
Attend the ‘Les nuits de la guitare’ festival in Patrimonio
Are you a music lover? Join us from 18 to 25 July 2023 for the 32nd anniversary of this festival, which each year hosts guitarists of all genres from all over the world: classical, jazz, blues, rock, gypsy, flamenco, tango, tzigane… This summer, you’ll have the chance to see -M-, Bernard Lavilliers, Izïa, Ibrahim Maalouf, Louis Bertignac, Chico & The Gypsies, Marcus Miller and many others… An event not to be missed if you’re in the region!
Ticket prices: From €35 to €45. 4-night pass (€130).
Online box office.
Picnic with style on Farinole beach
Enjoy an unusual and unique experience in Corsica with Il était un picnic, the first agency specialising in luxury picnics with the aim of transforming the traditional picnic into a truly exceptional and unforgettable experience! For a special day (whether big or small) or simply for indulgence, dine with your feet in the sand at sunset while facing the sea and let the magic happen.
Ticket prices: Starting at €190 (for 2 people)
Bookings at https://iletaitunpicnic.fr/
Swimming in rivers
I love this as alternative to going to the beach. Natural pools with refreshingly cool water are great fun, especially at the height of the summer heat. A good place to visit is the Genoese bridge at Torreno, near the easily accessible restaurant Le Jardin d’Antoine, or the Elleracce bridge at Bevinco.
I should point out that many accidents occur every year as a result of bad weather (rain and thunderstorms) and people jumping from rocks. If you’re looking for a thrill, you should always go canyoning with supervision from a local agency. Don’t take any unnecessary risks and use appropriate gear like closed-toe trainers or water shoes that will protect you from wet, slippery rocks. Save your flip-flops for the beach!
From its village and marina to its stunning unspoilt beaches and a host of activities, Saint Florent is a gem not to be missed! It’s a perfect destination for families, couples and solo travellers, who will appreciate the variety of experiences the area has to offer!
