Corsica Circuit
Corsica measures about 183 by 83 km and reaches 2,706 m at Monte Cinto. A circuit links Bastia, Calvi, Porto, Ajaccio, Bonifacio and the east coast; wild camping is prohibited.
- Region
- Corsica, France
- Length
- Island 183 km long, 83 km wide
- Highest peak
- Monte Cinto, 2,706 m
- Suggested time
- 10–14 days
- Best season
- Spring to late autumn
What should you know before visiting Corsica Circuit?
Tolls and vignettes for a car: about €18 (France).
- Wild camping is not allowed in Corsica, and breaking the rule can bring fines. Use campsites for the night; most open between March and April.
- The east and south coasts are easier for large motorhomes thanks to wider roads. Bonifacio's streets are narrow, but there are several parking lots for campers.
- Livorno to Bastia is named as the fastest crossing from Italy; it runs year-round and takes about 4.5 hours. Enter vehicle category and dimensions when booking and check the operator's check-in time.
- The UNESCO Scandola reserve is reached by sea; there is no road, and walking into the reserve is prohibited. Boat trips start from Porto (Ota), Galéria and Calvi. Check departure times beforehand.
The drive
One possible order: Bastia, Cap Corse, the Agriates between Saint-Florent and L'Île-Rousse, Calvi, Porto with Scandola, the Calanques de Piana on the D81 between Calvi and Ajaccio, Ajaccio, Bonifacio, then back up the east coast via Porto-Vecchio. The drive to the Aiguilles de Bavella from Porto-Vecchio is about 75 km and takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours. Allow plenty of time on mountain roads.
Camping
According to a camper guide, wild camping is prohibited in Corsica and fines are possible. A regional news report says authorities monitor protected coastal sites and patrol in summer. You overnight on campsites, most of which open between March and April and often offer better terms outside high season. The regional nature park, created in 1972, includes the Scandola reserve; protected areas carry extra rules, which the park or the commune can explain.
FAQs
How do I get to Corsica with a camper?
By ferry. Livorno to Bastia is named as the fastest crossing from Italy and runs year-round, taking about 4.5 hours. Operators on Corsica routes include La Méridionale, Moby Lines, Ichnusa Lines and Corsica Ferries; a few routes are seasonal. Enter your vehicle dimensions when booking.
Is wild camping allowed in Corsica?
No. A camper guide states wild camping is not allowed and breaking the rule can cost fines. Use campsites for the night and ask the commune if in doubt.
How big is the island?
Corsica is about 183 km long and 83 km wide, with roughly 8,700 km² of area. The highest peak is Monte Cinto at 2,706 m; Ajaccio and Bastia are the largest towns.
How much are the tolls on Corsica Circuit?
Tolls and vignettes for a car: about €18 (France). Estimate with typical rates; motorhomes pay more, and vehicles over 3.5 t often pay by distance.
Places to see
Calanques de Piana
Red granite pinnacles above the Gulf of Porto, on a narrow, twisting coast road.
Bonifacio cliffs
An old town perched on white limestone cliffs that hang over the sea. Walk the cliff path at sunset.
Capo Testa
A granite headland of wind-carved boulders, hidden coves and a lighthouse facing Corsica. The Valle della…
Rondinara bay
A nearly circular bay of shallow turquoise water closed by a sandy isthmus. The car park fills by…
Palombaggia beach
A long curve of fine sand edged by umbrella pines and red granite boulders, facing the Cerbicale islands.…
© Isiwal · CC BY-SA 3.0Aiguilles de Bavella
Red granite spires above a pass at 1,218 m, among wind-twisted pines. Short trails lead to viewpoints and…
Filitosa
A prehistoric site among olive trees with granite menhir statues carved with faces and swords. A good…
Nonza
A village clinging to a cliff with a tower on the rock and a long dark-grey beach below, made of old mine…
