The beaches of Ajaccio aren’t just somewhere to soak up the sun; they’re experiences to be remembered.
Ajaccio, a blue-tinged paradise
There’s much more to Ajaccio, the capital of South Corsica and birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, than imperial history and architecture. This city, wedged between herb-scented mountains and the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean, enchants you with its mix of French elegance and island charm. The streets in the old town beckon you to wander aimlessly among Italian-style villas, markets selling local produce, and buzzing terraces overlooking the port.
In the surrounding area, Ajaccio spills out into nature: green hills, coastal paths and, of course, beaches. Lots of beaches. Some are well known and popular, such as Plage Saint-François or Ricanto, but the real gems are to be found a bit further out. Today we’re taking you on a tour of the secret coves of Ajaccio, those hidden spots that seem to have been carved out for those looking for somewhere exclusive, untouched and truly memorable.
Cala di Fica: a wilderness between the cliffs
Around 45 minutes’ drive from the centre of Ajaccio, towards Capo di Feno, is Cala di Fica, a little paradise of fine sand and turquoise waters. Getting there is not easy: you face a walk of about 30 minutes along a coastal path once you’ve left your car on a dirt track, but you’re then rewarded with a practically untouched place, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and pink rocks.
There are no facilities or shade, so take some water, sun cream and food with you. It’s the ideal spot if you want to switch off completely and go for a swim away from it all.
La plage de Saint-Antoine: for adventurers only
Close to the iconic Parata peninsula with its Genoese towers, this small beach is hidden behind a rocky path running alongside the cliffs. It’s a bit tricky to get to, so suitable footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are advisable. But it’s worth every step: a cove of white pebbles, with no phone signal, where the only sound is the sea crashing against the rocks.
A perfect place to switch off, read a book or go diving among the fish. There are no facilities; it’s completely isolated.
La plage de Capo di Feno (south side): the secret sister
Capo di Feno is very popular with surfers, but it’s not generally known that south of the main beach lies a hidden cove, cut off by a rock formation. To get there you walk from the main carpark and follow a small path going off to the left.
This “little sister” has calmer waters, is more peaceful and has a truly idyllic setting. There’s a small beach bar in high season, but even then it’s generally quiet.
Cala d’ORZu: the best-kept secret on the south coast
Halfway between Ajaccio and Coti-Chiavari, Cala d’Orzu is a small beach with fine sand and crystal-clear waters. You get there via a forest track, so it’s best to use an off-road vehicle or park up before the trickier section and continue on foot.
The isolated location of this cove has protected it from mass tourism. There are no bars or showers, but the feeling of being in a secret corner of the world is well worth it. A perfect spot for snorkelling.
Anse de Minaccia: a most exclusive bay
Near the Route des Sanguinaires, this small cove is hard to get to but extraordinarily beautiful. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and overlooking the Isles Sanguinaires, its calm waters are ideal for swimming or paddle boarding.
You get there on foot, from the Chemin des Crêtes, so wear comfortable footwear and avoid the hottest time of day. There are no facilities, but instead you’ll find an amazingly picturesque setting.
Mare e Sole (Silver Beach): alone at dawn
Whilst not exactly unknown, Mare e Sole beach (also known as Silver Beach because of its dazzlingly white sand) becomes a magical place at daybreak. Around 30 minutes from Ajaccio, on the south coast, it’s accessible and serviced, but if you get up with the lark, you’ll have it almost all to yourself.
At first light, the sand is tinged with golden hues and the water is like a mirror. It’s the perfect time for a yoga session, some photography or a peaceful swim before the others arrive.
Plage d’Isolella: the jewel between the pines
On the Isolella peninsula, this small beach nestles between private houses and pine forests. It’s not that well signposted, but there are small pathways off the main road.
What makes it special is its almost familiar atmosphere, with calm waters, natural shade and a feeling of being away from it all. Only a few locals know about it.
A paradise for those who know how to look
Ajaccio and the surrounding region not only have a wealth of natural beauty but offer a different way of enjoying the summer: more slowly, more mindfully, feeling more connected to the land and sea. These secret beaches aren’t just somewhere to soak up the sun; they’re experiences to be remembered: the fragrance of the thyme under your feet, the sound of the wind around the rocks, the clearness of the secluded waters.
By travelling to Ajaccio with Volotea you open a door into the unexpected, into the authentic Corsica. You just need to venture out, stray off the beaten track a little… and let the island do the rest.
