A C T I V I T I E S

Water sports and seaside activities
o Swimming and relaxation: Enjoy the fine sandy beaches and secluded coves of the Gulf of Valinco, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and unspoiled setting. Petit Futé tip: Olmeto beach is ideal for families, while the coves near Cupabia offer a more intimate atmosphere.

o Sea fishing: Enjoy coastal or offshore fishing, with spots renowned for tuna, sea bass, or sea bream. Note: Trips organized by local clubs often include equipment. Reference: Fishing Regulations in Corsica

o Freshwater fishing: Enjoy fishing in rivers, streams and lakes, with spots renowned for trout. Reference: Corsican Federation for Fishing and the Protection of the Aquatic Environment

o Spearfishing: Explore the seabed teeming with fish and shellfish, while respecting the designated areas (check local regulations). Tip: The spots near Porto-Pollo are very popular.

o Scuba diving: Explore the seabed with certified clubs.( Propriano Diving in Propriano). Level: Beginners and experienced, with sites such as the Scandola reserve or the Bonifacio caves.

o Sea excursions: Embarkation for excursions to the Lavezzi Islands from Bonifacio and the Calanques of Piana (listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site) or the Scandola Nature Reserve, accessible by boat from Porto or Sagone.

  Nautical equipment rental:

o Motorboats or sailboats for exploring the coast.

o Jet skis, windsurfing boards, kitesurfing, for watersports enthusiasts.

o Sea kayaks for independent explorations along the coastline.

o Water skiing and towed inflatables for thrills. Where?: Propriano or Porto-Pollo watersports centers.

o Sailing schools and courses: Introductory or advanced training with certified instructors. Ideal for: Children and adults, with half-day or week-long options. Reference: Valinco Sailing School in Propriano.

o Launching and anchoring: Use the ports of Porto-Pollo (family-friendly atmosphere) or Propriano (more lively) for your personal boats. Services: Pontoons, fuel, and mooring buoy rentals.

Land activities and nature

Mountains, countryside and hiking

o  Traditional hunting: Supervised practice in authorized areas, with varied game (wild boar, woodcock, thrush, blackbird). Season: September to February. Regulations: Permit required and quotas must be respected. Reference: Regional Federation of Hunters in Corsica.

Hiking:

o Local trails: Easy routes connecting the villages of the Sartenais region (e.g., Sollacaro to Fozzano).

o Customs Officers' Path: Coastal hike starting from the Campomoro tower, with breathtaking views of the gulf.

o GR20 (southern section): For experienced hikers, with legendary stages like Vizzavona.

o Da Mare a Mare Sud: Crossing southern Corsica, from Porto-Vecchio to Propriano, in 5 to 7 days.

o Tra Mare e Monti Sud: Route between sea and mountains, with contrasting landscapes (forests, ridges, villages). Petit Futé tip: Bring good hiking shoes and an IGN map. Reference: Corsican Regional Natural Park

o Tree climbing: Courses in the trees in Propriano, suitable for children and adults. Reference: Barraci nature

o Mountain biking: Rent a mountain bike to explore forest trails or mountain tracks. Recommended spot: The Taravo Gorges. Where to rent?: at Propriano Texracing 

o Courses for beginners or guided walks in the maquis or on the beaches (e.g., Olmeto Beach).

o Multi-day horseback riding trips with bivouac. Orca Ranch in Porto Pollo (15 minutes from Sollacaro).

o Donkey rides: Family activity to discover the trails in a different way. Ideal for: Children and seniors. Reference : Corsican donkeys

Motorsports:

o  4x4: Organised excursions in the hinterland (e.g., the Aiguilles de Bavella).

o  Motorcycle and quad bike rentals available in Propriano or Sartène for rides off the beaten track.

Whitewater and river sports

o  River fishing: Trout and eels in the Taravo or Rizzanese rivers. Equipment: Rental available on site.

o  River swimming: Sites such as the natural pools of Caldane (thermal waters) or the Richiusa gorges.o     Canoë-kayak : Descente du Taravo ou exploration des gorges de l’Inzecca.

o  Canyoning: Guided tours in the Baracci gorges (beginner level, from age 7). Reference: Corsica Canyoning

 Autres sports et détente

o  Tennis: Courts available in Propriano or Sartène (rackets available for hire on site).

o  Swimming pool: Municipal swimming pools in Propriano (with children's pool).

o  Fitness center: Sauna and wellness treatments in the 4* hotels in the region.

o  Target shooting: Shooting club in Propriano for amateurs. Reference: Valinco Shooting Sports Fftir

o   Mini-golf: Fun course in Olmeto-Plage, ideal for a family break.

o  Motocross: Dedicated track near Sartène for enthusiasts.

Local know-how and traditions

The Route of Authentic Senses: Agritourism, wine tourism and craft circuit in the Taravo valley, with tasting of:

o Wines (AOP Corsica Sartène or Muscat du Cap Corse).

o Olive oil (AOP Huile de Corse).

o Sheep’s cheese (e.g.: Brocciu, Niolo).

o Cold meats (prisetu, coppa, lonzu).

o Maquis or chestnut honey.

o Crafts: pottery, basketry, cutlery (Corsican Laguiole knives). Reference: Route of Authentic Senses 

o Animal farm: Discover local animals (goats, donkeys, Corsican pigs) and enjoy educational workshops for children. Where? here.

Thermalism and wellness

Thermal spas:

o Baracci: Sulphurous waters at 37°C, ideal for rheumatism and respiratory ailments.

o Caldane: Open-air baths in a natural setting, with mountain views.

o Guitera and Tacana (Urbalacone): Lesser-known but equally beneficial springs.

o Filitosa archaeological site: Discovery of sculpted menhirs dating from the Bronze Age, ranked among the most important megalithic sites in the Mediterranean. Note: Guided tours are available. Reference: Filitosa Museum

Aerial activities

o Microlight flights and scenic flights: Fly over the Gulf of Valinco, the Bavella Needles, or the Scandola Nature Reserve with experienced pilots. Reference: Corsica ULM

o Skydiving school: Tandem jumps or introductory courses in Ajaccio or Bastia. Tip: Book in advance during peak season. Reference: Corsica Parachuting

Going out, gastronomy and nightlife

 Must-try restaurants

o Le Frère (Casalabriva – https://www.restaurantlefrere.com/) :  Specialties: Traditional cuisine with character).

o Ô délices (Sollacaro – +33 7 45 32 76 38): original cuisine

o Tina's Bar, Tobacco Shop, Snack Bar (Sollacaro – +33 6 66 13 18 13); Type: Brasserie and snack bar open year-round. Atmosphere: Family-friendly and welcoming, ideal for a quick meal or drinks with friends.

Bars, nightclubs and leisure activities

o King NightClub (Propriano): The leading nightclub in the Gulf of Valinco, open from 11:30 pm.

o The Oasis (Propriano): A lounge and bohemian chic atmosphere with your feet in the sand: this beach bar regularly hosts live concerts and DJ sets to extend summer evenings.

o Bars and pubs: Several establishments in Propriano and Sartène for relaxing evenings.

o Theatre - Cinema: Sessions in Propriano.

 Annual events and activities

Local festivals and traditions

o  Village Festival and Ball (Sollacaro, mid-July and mid-August): Evening dance with traditional music and local specialties. Games and activities for children.

o Procession of Saint Mary (Sollacaro, August 15): Religious ceremony followed by a popular celebration.

o The Catenacciu (Sartène, Good Friday): A unique nighttime procession, listed as intangible cultural heritage. Reference: agenda of cultural events

Culture and festivals

o Fishermen's Festival of Saint Erasmus, patron saint of fishermen (Propriano, every June 2nd): A celebration of the sea with fish tastings and entertainment.

o Festi Acqua (Propriano, early or mid-September): A festival dedicated to water, with nautical activities and concerts.

o Colomba Days (Fozzano, late July): In Fozzano, the village that inspired Mérimée, this festival blends theater, music, literature, and street performances around the figure of Colomba; an event deeply rooted in village life, very popular with both locals and visitors.

o Île Danse (Ajaccio, January-February): A festival dedicated to contemporary dance, Île Danse enlivens the Corsican capital at the beginning of the year with performances, creations, and artistic encounters in various locations throughout the city. 

o Ajaccio Music Festival (July): Every summer, the city offers a musical interlude blending classical and jazz, with open-air concerts where the balmy Corsican nights are part of the program.

o Blues Nights (Ajaccio, July): The blues takes over Ajaccio for a few summer nights, with artists from far and wide bringing their music to life and making the city vibrate to the rhythm of a music that travels well.

o Napoleonic Festival (Ajaccio, mid-August): Every mid-August, the Emperor's birthplace relives the Napoleonic epic: historical reenactments, parades in period costume, and the atmosphere of the Grande Armée fill the streets of Ajaccio for a timeless weekend.

o Napoleonic Days (Ajaccio, mid-September): A second, more intimate encounter with the imperial legacy, inviting visitors to explore Ajaccio's Napoleonic heritage through a diverse cultural program.

o European Scuba Diving Meetings (Ajaccio, September): For one event, Ajaccio becomes the meeting point for diving enthusiasts and professionals: conferences, discussions, and explorations in some of the most pristine waters of the Mediterranean.

o Storytelling Night (Vero, June): In this inland village, as night falls, voices rise to tell stories. Corsican legends and tales are passed down orally, as they always have been.

o Medieval Days (Bonifacio, June): The narrow streets of the upper town regain their ancient spirit: a craft market, entertainment, and residents in period costume transport Bonifacio back several centuries, to the edge of its historical precipice. 

o Comedy Festival (Porto-Vecchio, May): Porto-Vecchio embraces laughter for a festival that invites comedians from across the country for lighthearted evenings before the peak summer season.

o Mosaïcales (Porto-Vecchio – Alta Rocca, 3rd week of September): Classical music takes center stage in unexpected locations, between the coast and the inland mountains, for a week of concerts that play as much on the setting as on the music itself.

 Craft fairs and markets

o Filitosa Fair: Fiera di u turismu campagnolu (Sollacaro, late July – early August): A stone's throw from the prehistoric site, this open-air fair celebrates Corsican rural life: local products, crafts and musical entertainment in a setting that naturally lends itself to celebration.

o Baracci Fair (Propriano, mid-August): In the middle of the summer season, this fair brings together local producers and artisans for a beautiful showcase of the Valinco region: tastings, demonstrations and traditional know-how.

o In Samperina (Cauro, July): Cheeses, cured meats, honey: this fair is a showcase of the best Corsican products, in an inland village that knows how to welcome guests.

o Apple and natural products days (Bastelica, 1st weekend of November): When the tourist season fades away, Bastelica celebrates Corsican autumn in its own way: local apple varieties, organic products and mountain flavors for an off-the-beaten-path getaway.

o Markets and fairs in the region: here

Sporting events

o The Southern Route (May): A multi-stage cycling race that crosses the south of the island from Ajaccio to Porto-Vecchio, with a stage in Propriano: the peloton as a free spectacle, and the Corsican mountain passes as a backdrop.

o Nautical Festival (Propriano, May):The Gulf of Valinco is transformed into a playground: regattas, nautical activities and iodine-rich air to open the season at sea.

o Corsican Powerboat Grand Prix (Ajaccio, June): The speedboats of the water take over the Gulf of Ajaccio for a competition that mixes speed, noise and spray, a spectacle that can be followed just as well from the quays.

o Challenge Rive Sud Rando (Ajaccio): Hikes accessible to all levels, organized in the vicinity of Ajaccio to explore the trails of the south at your own pace.

o Kymea Jump (Ajaccio, May): Elegance and power: this show jumping competition is aimed at both riding enthusiasts and curious newcomers to discover the discipline.

o Ripcurl Bonifacio (Bonifacio, May): The winds of the Strait of Bonifacio, renowned among the most consistent in the Mediterranean, offer an ideal setting for this windsurfing competition in one of the most spectacular locations on the island.

o Rallye Terre de Corse (September): Mountain roads, tight corners and dust: the Corsican car rally is a demanding event that attracts drivers and spectators to the inland villages for a special weekend.

o Corsica Raid Aventure (May-June): Orienteering and endurance race in the heart of Corsican nature: a challenge for those who want to push themselves to the limit in a wild and uncompromising environment.

Religious demonstrations

o Procession of the five brotherhoods (Bonifacio, March-April): In the narrow streets of the upper town, the five brotherhoods of Bonifacio parade in silence and in penitential garb: a solemn procession that says a lot about the city's attachment to its oldest traditions.

o Feast of Our Lady of Mercy (Ajaccio, March 18): The patron saint of the city for centuries, the Virgin of Mercy is celebrated every year with fervor: pilgrimage, masses and popular gathering in an Ajaccio still preserved from the summer season.

o Saint Erasmus (Ajaccio, June 2): The fishermen honor their patron saint with a mass and a procession which remind us that the sea, here, is not just a holiday backdrop but a way of life.

o Feast of Our Lady (Bonifacio, September 8): At the beginning of autumn, Bonifacio finds a time for reflection: processions and Marian celebrations in a city that is catching its breath after the summer.

o Pilgrimage to Our Lady of the Snows (Bavella, August 5): Every August 5th, worshippers and hikers make their way together to the Chapel of the Snows, nestled in the heart of the Bavella Needles. A unique event, a blend of devotion and wonder, it's one of the most special occasions on the Corsican calendar.

o Good Friday Procession (Sartène): The most famous in Corsica: the Catenacciu, a chained and anonymous penitent, carries a heavy cross through the granite streets of Sartène in striking silence. A public penance ritual unique in Western Europe.

o Saint John's Day (inland villages, June 24): In several Corsican villages, Saint John's Day is still celebrated around traditional fires lit at nightfall, perpetuating a rite on the border between religious and popular.

o  Blessing of the sea (Propriano and Gulf of Valinco, summer): As in several southern ports, the summer season sometimes opens with a blessing of the boats, a simple moment and one that is deeply rooted in the memory of seafarers.

For more information, contact the Sartenais Valinco Taravo Intercommunal Tourist Office in Sollacaro.

Hours of operation

o Summer period (April to October): Generally open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

o Off-season: Opening possible by reservation through the reception desk or the main tourist office network.

o Propriano Tourist Office: 21, avenue Napoléon III, 20110 Propriano, France +33 4 95 76 01 49

o Sartène Tourist Office: 14, cours Sœur Amélie, 20100 Sartène, France +33 4 95 77 15 40