Surrounded by the coastal beauty of southern Corsica, Villa Pietra di Mare enjoys a superb location near the renowned bay of Santa Giulia, just 8.5km from Porto Vecchio. This area combines natural splendour with easy access to the region’s most captivating sights, making it a superb base for both relaxation and exploration.
Perched above the coast with incredible sea views, the villa forms part of an exclusive estate, where two small beaches are accessible on foot. You can also reach the famous Plage de Santa Giulia (1.5km) – some guests prefer to cycle, drive or use the golf cart (which can be rented as part of the ‘sports package’) to the bottom of the estate, and then it’s a short walk from there. Alternatively, the most energetic could walk all the way from the villa in around 15 minutes. Santa Giulia offers crystal-clear waters, beachside dining and a watersports centre. A neighbouring bay offers a diving centre and a small scattering of summer restaurants (all coastal facilities are seasonal).
Just a short drive in the other direction, the postcard-perfect Plage de Tamaricciu (6.3km) awaits, where pine-fringed shores and crystalline shallows invite long, lazy days by the sea. Meanwhile, the iconic Plage de Palombaggia (8.5km) enchants with its powdery sands and gently sloping shallows, perfect for snorkelling or paddling.
Porto Vecchio (8.5km) itself is a vibrant harbour town that blends historic charm with modern appeal. Wander through its atmospheric old town, where narrow cobbled streets are lined with boutiques, cafés and restaurants set within ancient stone walls. Down by the marina, you’ll find a lively waterfront scene, perfect for evening strolls or al fresco dining with views over the yachts. Whether browsing the local markets, discovering its 16th-century citadel, or simply soaking up the relaxed vibe, Porto Vecchio offers an upmarket taste of southern Corsican life.
Nature lovers will be drawn inland to explore the Forêt de l’Ospédale, around half an hour’s drive from the villa. This verdant mountain forest offers shaded trails, picnic spots and breathtaking vistas over the coastline far below. For those seeking more active pursuits, venture further into the island’s interior to reach the dramatic peaks of the Aiguilles de Bavella. Here, hiking, canyoning and rock-climbing adventures await amid striking granite spires and deep river gorges.
A day trip to Bonifacio (27km) is a must for its extraordinary cliff-top setting and medieval charm. Perched dramatically above the sea, the town boasts a fascinating citadel, picturesque harbour and boat tours that explore nearby sea caves, hidden coves and islands. Whether wandering its narrow lanes, enjoying traditional Corsican fare in a citadel restaurant or taking in the views across to Sardinia, Bonifacio offers a captivating contrast to Corsica’s rugged interior.
Villa Pietra di Mare’s enviable location means that world-class beaches, scenic mountain trails and rich cultural experiences are all within easy reach, allowing guests to tailor their holiday to the perfect blend of adventure and repose.
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.
