Porto Vecchio

Porto Vecchio is arguably Corsica’s most vibrant town. As one of the more sophisticated resorts on the island, it has long been a favourite haunt of Italians who add great vitality to the town during July and August. This elegant, cultured and lively place is located on a hill which overlooks the magnificent Gulf of Porto Vecchio. It is surrounded by gigantic outcrops of pink granite. Although little evidence remains of the original city walls, the stone gateways to the old town and citadel area are constant reminders of a bygone era. The heart of old Porto Vecchio lies within a concentrated area of narrow lanes which attract visitors to the central square and the Place de la Republique, which itself is dominated by a magnificent cathedral. Street cafés and restaurants line the square and the Cours Napoleon. A selection of modern and fashionable shops border the old town along Rue du Gal Leclerc. Nightlife in Porto Vecchio is low-key, although the welcoming sound of traditional Corsican choral and folk tunes can be heard at Le Taverne du Roi. In the small harbour there is a colourful and curious collection of yachts. The fishing boats which provide local restaurants with an impressive variety of ‘fruits de mer’, jostle for position with the more elegant pleasure craft of many nationalities. There is a monthly market at the quayside which embraces the very spirit of the local inhabitants. The atmosphere of the promenade around the Port de Plaisance is an experience to relish. The picturesque granite village of Zonza is a short drive into the mountains, but the main attraction of the area remains the many spectacular beaches.