Sari-Solenzara on the Côte des Nacres

A small 19th-century village with a population of 1,200, Solenzara belongs to the commune of Sari-Solenzara; Sari being a pretty little village in the Alpine heights. The coastline of the Côte des Nacres is a marvellous alternation of long beaches and enchanting little coves, and is full of treasures. 100 km from Bastia in the south and 80 km from Bonifacio in the north, this picturesque little village at the foot of the mountains offers a host of activities.

Beach and idleness in Solenzara

Boasting a microclimate, Solenzara has some of the best sunshine in France, and the climate is particularly pleasant all year round, with mild winters and summers where the heat is never overwhelming. In the heart of the Corsican Regional Park, which covers almost 40% of the territory, you'll find a host of wild and relaxing places to enjoy an unforgettable change of scenery.

So don't forget your swimming costume and sun cream for lazy days on the large beaches with turquoise waters reminiscent of Caribbean lagoons, such as Canella beach, where the fine sand and shallow waters make it ideal for families. A large beach is directly accessible from the port.

Lovers will find a little privacy on the small pebble beach, which is not very busy even in summer. Water sports enthusiasts can head to the beach at Favona, where ice cream parlours and restaurants await you - after sport, there's comfort! Finally, Solenzara's historic Scaffa Rossa beach is very lively in summer. The Solenzara river is a magical place that inspires great serenity.

The natural pools of Solenzara

For swimming, you can also choose the natural pools! There are a few in the bed of the Solenzara, a small coastal river that flows into the Tyrrhenian Sea. Right in the heart of the mountains, you'll discover magnificent natural pools that are the stuff of dreams.

With their emerald green waters, these pools will provide all the coolness you need on hot summer afternoons. In the shade of the rocks and surrounding vegetation, a handful of canistrelli - traditional biscuits made with aniseed, almonds or lemon - will make your afternoon snack all the better.

Culture and heritage

The Côte des Nacres, an exceptional rural area, boasts an interesting historical heritage, with villages and churches symbolising Corsica's authenticity and identity. At an altitude of 450 metres, Sari, a veritable haven of peace, will captivate you with its beautiful stone churches, fountains and traditional houses. In Sari, don't miss the sunset over the port from the heights.

For a little culture, we recommend a visit to the Assunta Gloriosa monastery, which has a charming chapel open all day. Not far away, the prehistoric site of Cuccuruzzu in Levie is one of the most important Bronze Age sites, at an altitude of 700 metres, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Outdoor activities

When it comes to leisure activities, you'll be spoilt for choice with quad biking, rock climbing, accrobranches parks, canyoning and scuba diving. Solenzara strikes the perfect balance between dynamism and a gentle pace of life. For those who are not afraid of heights, try the "Via Ferrata", an intermediate activity between hiking and climbing.

The hinterland is also open to hikers with its footpaths and walks where you can lose yourself in the wild landscapes hidden away in the maquis, and children will love the freshwater pools and natural diving boards carved out of the rock.

But above all, save the best for last with the Aiguilles de Bavella: a meeting point for artists, mountaineers and hikers. A veritable tableau of astonishing colours and shapes, where the laricio pine, Corsica's emblem, dominates in all its splendour, accompanied by a rich and varied fauna. Meet the Corsican mouflon, wild boar and the mystical golden eagle!

For accommodation, you can opt for charming hotels with sea views, bungalows, flats or houses to rent. Campers are also welcome at campsites located just a few metres from the port.

Casa Peppina, Chez Tonio et Sylvie, is the kind of guest house we'd like to see more of: a warm, smiling welcome, where every detail is taken care of! You'll feel right at home in this charming little establishment.