Villa Bel Orizzonte

Villa Bel Orizzonte enjoys an enviable setting perched above Corsica’s iconic Palombaggia Beach with the most sensational sea views, only a 10km drive from Porto Vecchio.

The most energetic of guests could walk down the hill to Plage de Palombaggia, following the road and track for just over 1km (or it’s a short drive, head there early for free parking at the other end of the bay). One of Corsica’s most famous beaches, it’s a beautiful bay with fine sand, large rocks and turquoise-coloured water backed by umbrella pines. The much-loved beach is especially busy in the height of the summer so take advantage of its close proximity and visit early in the morning or as evening nears. There is a choice of beachside restaurants open seasonally as well as summer water-based activities including snorkelling, diving, kayaking, pedal boats and more.  

There are many more idyllic beaches to discover around Porto Vecchio and southern Corsica. Plage de Santa Giulia (10km) is especially wonderful and another hot-spot in the summer months, or head towards Bonifacio and Figari for gems such as Plage de Rondinara and Plage de Tonnara, both around a 30 to 40-minute drive away. To the north of Porto Vecchio, Plage de Pinarellu (27km) is a fantastic day out, especially outside July and August, as is Plage de Saint Cyprien (21km).

Porto Vecchio (10km) itself is a joy to explore as you wander around the medieval old quarter with bustling shops, restaurants and bars, or enjoy a stroll by the harbourside. Boats depart from the marina to take you out to the incredible and remote Lavezzi islands – pack plenty of water and shade for a stunning trip.  

The interior of Corsica is also waiting to be explored from the magnificent Forêt de l'Ospédale to the incredible rugged scenery of the Col de Bavella – it’s an absolute paradise for hikers and outdoor adventurists.

A day out in Bonifacio (31km) is a must with its amazing citadel perched above the limestone cliffs and steep staircase leading down to the sea. Admire the beauty of Bonifacio from the sea by taking a boat trip from the marina or make the most of the glorious beaches, summer watersports and walking trails near the exquisite town.

Read more about Southern Corsica

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.