On this beautiful summer morning, The Octopus takes you on a tour of some of Corsica’s best anchorages, focusing on the northern region of the island.
Haute-Corse (the region of Corsica we will focus on) offers you a unique opportunity to discover less known spots of the beautiful island. This preserved region is full of treasures to explore, from white sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters to spectacular rock formations. The picturesque villages, Genoese towers, and local cuisine add an authentic Corsican touch to your experience!
Before we begin our itinerary of the best anchorages in Haute-Corse, The Octopus would like to remind you of the prevailing winds on the “Island of Beauty”.
Winds in Corsica
Corsica is characterized by a diversity of winds that influence its climate and landscape. Among the dominant winds in Corsica, there is the Mistral, a northwesterly wind that can blow forcefully and regularly, bringing cool and dry air. This is why there are more turbulent navigation conditions and bigger waves on the west coast of the island.
The Libeccio, on the other hand, is the most frequent wind in Corsica, accounting for 60% of windy days. It is a hot and often violent southwest wind that can blow in powerful gusts, creating rough sea conditions. Additionally, the Tramontane, a north wind, also brings windy conditions, but generally more stable than the Mistral and libeccio.
Finally, the Sirocco, a warm southeastern wind, can bring humidity and dust from the Sahara. When exploring the island, it is important to take into account these prevailing winds and plan your activities in a way to make the most of your sailing trip in Corsica.
To know more about the wind conditions in Corsica, you can use Navily Premium to check the weather for 72 hours!
Now, follow The Octopus on an itinerary of the best anchorages in Haute-Corse!
Best anchorages in Northern Corsica
Golfe de Revellata
Here is an exceptional anchorage where only north winds dare to disturb its enchanting atmosphere. Like a vigilant guardian, this refuge offers a protective embrace, keeping the impetuous whiffs of the Libeccio at bay. Moreover, Navily users have reported a secure hold on large sandbanks composing the anchorage’s seabed. Therefore, the good conditions are a prerequisite for an enjoyable stay with breathtaking settings and magical adventures.
Next thing on the list is to go on the best hiking itineraries in Corsica. They are of moderate difficulty and approximately 3 hours long. Wander along the trails from the west, descending through the east (the most challenging part first, trust The Octopus), then let yourself be carried away by the magic of Northern Corsica’s preserved nature.
On the paths, within the embrace of time, you will discover rock formations that tell the millennial history of this land. The mountainous reliefs rise like grand sentinels, captivating your awe-inspired gaze.
Calvi
Calvi is a must-visit to immerse yourself in the Corsican culture. Here, the Gulf of Calvi offers protection from western and southern winds. However, you should moor to buoys as anchoring is prohibited. Once settled in, you can indulge in the Corsican “dolce farniente”.
Amidst the murmurs of the lively harbor, where the reflections of the sea dance, you will savor the delights of Corsican cuisine.In this picturesque setting, the magnificent medieval citadel should have already caught your attention. Like a guardian of time, it proudly rises to the skies, offering a breathtaking panorama of the city and the surrounding azure waters.
Even these fortifications humbly yield to the spiritual power of the Chapel of Notre Dame de la Serra that overlooks them. Moreover, the panoramic view of Calvi with its mountainous reliefs and the silver reflections of the Mediterranean Sea is simply stunning. In summary, take a break in this timeless place, recharge your soul, and discover a blessed haven where contemplation blends with tranquility.
Plage de Saleccia
In the heights of Corsica, among the natural treasures that dot its coastlines, lies a paradise bordered by the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean sea. Saleccia is sheltered from southwest to southeast winds by the east and only the whims of the Tramontane could alter your experience in one of the best anchorages in northern Corsica, if not the entire island. Furthermore, the sandy bottoms securely accommodate anchors for a secure stay.
Saleccia competes with the splendor of its neighbor, Lotu Beach. This exceptional setting attracts fleeting boats that come to moor briefly, eager to savor the brilliance of this dreamlike spot.
However, at dusk, when the sun sets behind the daring Corsican mountains and the stars rise in the night sky, this anchorage empties and takes on a mystical aura. The whispers of the sea blend with the breaths of the wind, while the moonlight gently caresses the waves. It is then that the souls of sailors flourish, captivated by the beauty of this idyllic place where untamed nature reveals its secrets.
Plage de Loto
Welcome to this magnificent anchorage with almost a perfect rating on Navily. The sandy bottoms ensure excellent hold at depths of 5 to 10 meters. Additionally, you will benefit from protection against southwest winds and swell.
The bay is actually composed of two anchorages with a slight difference in protection. The second anchorage, called Petit Lotu, is closer to the prominent cape and thus provides protection against eastern and southern winds.
In addition, Lotu Beach is less crowded than Loto Beach as it is much smaller.
Once settled, you will witness a vast expanse of nature before you. The typical Corsican rock formations merge with lush vegetation mirrored in crystal-clear waters reminiscent of the Caribbean.
Do not forget your snorkeling equipment to explore the fascinating depths, where aquatic life thrives among majestic reefs. Between the rocks and in the Posidonia seagrass meadows, you can come across numerous species of fish, rays, and octopuses, much to the delight of sea lovers.Finally, for a moment of relaxation, bask on the white sandy beach. On this beach, when visitors are few, nature reclaims its space, and cows (yes cows) can be seen seeking for shade and relaxing on the warm sand!
Baie de Centuri
This time the Octopus leads you to an anchorage close to a picturesque small port town. You can anchor in sand, although the bottoms are also composed of rocks and Posidonia meadows. Furthermore, the islet protects you from south and east winds. This is an opportunity to satisfy your appetite, gather strength, and continue exploring Cap Corse from the western end of the coastal path.
Once settled, visit the charming port village of Centuri, where pastel-colored buildings, old boats, and stone walls transport you back in time. Listen to the sound of birds living in harmony on the islet of Capense. Additionally, the rocky nature of the seabed and the calm sea in this area invite you to discover abundant marine life. To the south of the bay, put on your diving gear and encounter various marine species, including moray eels and even our octopus friends!
Above the village lies the beautiful medieval hamlet of Cannelle. Its paved streets and serene atmosphere are simply breathtaking. It is a corner of a serene retreat with a fascinating view of Centuri and the surrounding sea.
This anchorage is located on Cap Corse. Often overlooked, this place is full of magic. Here, the Genoese towers, reminiscing of the past, tell stories of sailors and pirates.
It is a journey through time, a dive into the Corsican soul. In this land of enchantment, it is also an opportunity to search for Corsican Taffoni, stone sculptures shaped by the elements of the Earth – air and water. Like natural works of art, these mystical rock formations reveal the artistic imprint of nature and stimulate your imagination. On the way to our next destination, don’t miss the opportunity to spot all these curiosities.
Baie de Macinaggio
Here, on this second anchorage located east of Cap Corse, the bay offers protection from west and north winds. By your side, a charming Corsican hamlet nestles, ready to supply you with its authentic delights. Moreover, the largest marina on Cap Corse is located near the anchorage, surrounded by wild nature, making it an absolutely unique setting.
At the harbor, fishermen return with their precious catch. A feast of fresh fish waiting to be savored in one of the traditional restaurants accompanied by local wines and cheeses (with moderation, of course).
Adventurous souls will be guided by the coastal path, starting at the edge of the beach. The path leads to the Capandula Nature Reserve. Then finally, your gaze unfolds to reveal the most beautiful beach of Cap Corse, Tamarone Beach, a wild treasure of this unique land.
Be aware that the shores of Macinaggio Beach may be covered with seagrass, forming curious beds shaped by the caresses of the waves. The setting is natural and preserved, and you have the honor of contemplating it, so take great care of it!
Finally, in this exceptional place, it is not only humans who find happiness…
This concludes this unique adventure in Northern Corsica. We hope you enjoyed this adventure as much as The Octopus did and that it will inspire your future boat trip to Northern Corsica.
Hold on! Discover also the other best anchorages in Corsica and the best anchorages in the South of Sardinia.
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