As I walk deeper and deeper into the sea, the water is so clear that I can still see my toes as if through glass, even when the waves are lapping my chin. The beach at L’Ile Rousse in northern Corsica is one of my favourite beaches in the world. 

The soft white side forms a gently sloping seabed and every time I have visited this beach it has never been anything other than beautiful and calm.

L'Ile Rousse, La balagne, Corsica #beachlife #Corsica #IleRousse #Balagne #beach #Mediterranean #islands

Exploring L’Ile Rousse

Just off the beach is the town square surrounded by charming cafés and restaurants where you can sit in the shade of one-hundred-year-old plane trees and watch the world go by. The parish church overlooks the square in front of which giant date palms provide shade for the occasional game of petanque.

Leading off from here are a number of lovely little cobbled streets running parallel to the coast where you’ll find a traditional covered market, more wonderful restaurants, a few souvenir shops and some stylish boutiques. Yet more great restaurants can be found on the beach itself.

The market is filled each morning with stalls selling local honey, bread, charcuterie, fruit and vegetables and is the perfect place to pick up some provisions for a picnic.

The square plays host to numerous events throughout the year including Fête de La Musique held every 21st June and occasional antique markets.

Find a hotel in L’Ile Rousse.

by travel photographer, Kathryn Burrington

by travel photographer, Kathryn Burrington

L'Ile Rousse beach

If you ever tire of L’Ile Rousse, which seems highly unlikely, there’s a little train that runs along the coast to the village of Algajola and the larger town of Calvi, either of which makes a very picturesque day out. The views along the way are fabulous. You can hop on and off at a number of different lovely villages and beaches. Another train heads off in the other direction up into the mountains and the town of Corte. More stunning views await.

Looking for a hotel in Corsica? Check out reviews, prices and availability on TripAdvisor.

 

 

Join my 'Behind the Scenes' newsletter

Delivered monthly to your inbox with all my behind the scenes news, latest posts and giveaways exclusive to my subscribers.