Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of south-western Corsica, Le Moulin Des Vignes is part of a prestigious and beautiful wine estate covering a thousand hectares of vineyards, olive groves and maquis-covered countryside with the Cagna Massif looking over you.
There are some wonderful sign-posted trails through the domaine and beyond or find the nearby river to cool down as you explore the incredible landscapes around you in this magnificent setting.
There are a couple of restaurants within a five to ten minute drive whilst the nearest shops and supermarkets are in Pianottoli or Sartène, both around 25 minutes away by car.
Sartène is a destination in itself with its historic old town of winding lanes, traditional restaurants, pretty shops and charming squares. Visit on a Saturday morning to experience the atmospheric Farmer’s market selling amazing local products such as honey, Corsican cheeses, cured meats and other delights (there are also smaller markets on a Tuesday and Thursday from late June to August). Those who are fascinated by Corsica’s pre-historic remains should head to the Musée Départemental de Préhistoire which has recently opened in the town.
You are also close to some of south-west Corsica’s most glorious beaches such as Plage de Roccapina, a stunning beach with fine sand and crystal-clear water, ideal for paddling, swimming and snorkelling. Take a picnic (there are no facilities) and be surrounded by the island’s most breath-taking nature. Follow trails through the maquis to Spiaggia di Erbaju, another idyllic spot by the sea and usually less crowded.
Of course, there are many more beaches to visit such as the picturesque gulf around Pianotolli and Figari as well as La Tonnara with its watersports (jet-ski, wind-surfing and kite-surfing) or Tizzano and Plage de Campomoro towards Propriano to the north. Local diving schools can take you out to some superb sites around the south-west coastline or boat-trips with a skipper are another way to explore.
Further outdoor activities include hiking, either guided or independent; there are many great trails to suit all abilities including the well-known summit at 'l'Omu di Cagna' which can be reached from Giannuccio (or the most experienced walkers can depart from the domaine). There is also horse-riding nearby with hacks through the mountains and coastline.
The famous town of Bonifacio is ideal for a day out – it’s an exceptional place with the steep citadel built into the limestone cliffs which tumble down to the sea. Discover excellent restaurants in the citadel or by the marina and explore the narrow lanes filled with attractive shops, cafes and bars. You are surrounded by history in Bonifacio as well as incredible vistas of the sea.
Boat trips depart from Bonifacio to the beautiful and remote Lavezzi Islands, another peaceful spot for walking and swimming.
The Region
From the family-friendly beaches of Porto Vecchio to the dramatic mountain peaks of the Col de Bavella, the southern region of the Mediterranean’s fourth largest island offers you the diverse landscapes, historic towns and iconic coastline that Corsica is so famous for.
Starting in the south-eastern corner of the island, the coastline is truly impressive with turquoise coloured water and soft sand often backed by beachside restaurants and shady trees. Embrace the scent of salt air and pines at Plage de Pinarellu with its crystal-clear sea or spend the day at Plage de Saint Cyprien famed for its gently-shelving shores and summer watersports. On the other side of Porto Vecchio bay are the two famous beaches of Palombaggia and Santa Giulia – head out early to avoid the many visitors who flock to these photogenic beaches in the height of the summer. Further south, Plage de Rondinara is yet another idyllic bay with shallow clear water and fine white sand.
Experience the glamour of Porto Vecchio, once a historic harbour and citadel, now a vibrant town increasingly loved by jet-setters who appreciate its character and natural beauty. It’s a joy to potter around Porto Vecchio’s old town in the evening with boutiques, bars and a range of restaurants for every taste (seafood, pizzas, salads as well as more traditional Corsican dishes).
The jewel of southern Corsica is arguably the exquisite town of Bonifacio with its historic citadel perched above dramatic limestone cliffs and the most incredible vistas of the sea. The citadel’s warren of medieval lanes will enchant you and there is a wealth of restaurants to choose from showcasing some of Corsica’s delicious cuisine – imagine lamb and rosemary, wild boar casserole with chestnuts, cannelloni au brocciu and Mediterranean seafood. Boats from the marina whisk you away to the Lavezzi Islands for more serene beauty. Meanwhile, keen golfers will already be familiar with the prestigious Golf de Spérone in a spectacular setting with views towards Sardinia.
Heading towards the south-west of the island, pass the wilder shores of the Figari coastline (Plage de la Tonnara is a favourite) and venture through the mountainous landscapes of forest, vineyards and olive groves towards the mountain village of Sartène with its charming squares, restaurant terraces and wonderful market on a Saturday morning. Don’t miss pristine bays along the Valinco Gulf such as Campomoro and Porto Pollo as well as the pre-historic menhirs of Filitosa, before eventually arriving into the handsome city of Ajaccio, birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.
The rugged interiors of southern Corsica are also not to missed from the pine and beech forests of the Forêt de l'Ospédale near Porto Vecchio to the mountain village of Zonza and the incredible Col de Bavella peaks. Discover walking trails, hiking routes, rock-climbing, canyoning and other adventures amidst the awe-inspiring scenery of Corse-du-Sud.
Whether you choose a rural bergerie near Porto Vecchio, a more contemporary abode overlooking the sea or a beautiful getaway with mountain views, Oliver’s Travels is proud to offer a range of hand-picked villas in southern Corsica.
