Saint-Florent, Camping in the old Genoese town

Village de Saint-Florent en Haute-Corse © iStock

 

Situated in Haute-Corse on the seafront of the Nebbiu, at the foot of Cap Corse, Saint-Florent is a seaside resort surrounded by mountains covered in scrub. Blessed with a location that promises a direct gateway to the Mediterranean and close to the Agriate, a gigantic natural area lined with wild coastlines and magnificent beaches, the village is also blessed with a rich architectural heritage, as evidenced by its superb citadel built in the 15th century by the Genoese. Today, visitors are just as enchanted by the sublime scenery offered by its walks, as by the magnificent views of the citadel from the marina jetty. Camping accommodation is the ideal way to enjoy your holiday in Saint-Florent.

 

Where to go camping in Saint Florent?

The 5 campsites in Saint-Florent offer accommodation in mobile homes or tents so you can discover the exceptional landscapes of Haute-Corse. Here is our selection:

Camping Kalliste **** is located on the outskirts of Saint-Florent. It offers modern, air-conditioned accommodation, a swimming pool area with solarium and water sports activities on the nearby beach.

The d'Olzo *** campsite offers a range of accommodation including mobile homes, chalets and the unusual wooden accommodation known as Coque. Situated 500 metres from the beaches, it is also 2 km from the town centre of Saint-Florent and 20 km from the port of Bastia. There's a lovely swimming pool to cool off in after your visits to Saint-Florent and Cap Corse.

Camping La Pinède ** is also located in Saint-Florent. There's an outdoor swimming pool and table tennis tournaments. Accommodation includes 85 pitches and 21 rental units.

 

Must-sees in Saint-Florent

Built in 1440 by the Genoese, the citadel's primary purpose was to protect the population from attack. It was built on the ruins of a sanctuary and has been listed as a Historic Monument for 30 years. Its massive architecture has stood the test of time since the 15th century. Today, it houses numerous exhibitions and music festivals.

The citadel of Saint-Florent© iStock

A former fishing village, Saint-Florent boasts a charming little port surrounded by the garrigue-covered mountains. It's a very pleasant walk to the pier, which offers a breathtaking view. As night falls, the bars light up and the place becomes less quiet and more festive, to the delight of all those who like to party!

Port of Saint-Florent© iStock

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, also known as the Cathedral of Nebbiu, is a listed building dating back to the 12th century but has been completely restored. Built in the Pisan Romanesque style, its architecture is simple and discreet. Inside, you'll find some real treasures, including a 16th-century Christ on the Cross and a 17th-century statue of the Virgin and Child, both of which are listed works of art.

Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Nebbiu© iStock

The beaches are undoubtedly one of Saint-Florent's must-sees. The most accessible beach is certainly that of the Roya, located near the centre of the village and particularly suitable for children as they can walk quite a distance into the sea. The beaches of Ospedale, Olzu and Tettola are very beautiful and have the particularity of being covered in pebbles. Finally, the beach at Saleccia, surrounded by pale sand and Aleppo pines, is certainly one of the most beautiful in Corsica. It forms part of the Agriates desert and is also accessible by boat, as is Lotu beach.image

Saleccia beach in the Agriates desert© iStock

The walk along the "sentier des douaniers" (customs officers' path) is also perfect for all the family. It starts at the Roya beach and takes in some exceptional scenery all the way to the Mortella tower, another sumptuous vestige of the Genoese era, built in the 16th century and of which only a section of wall remains today.

Mortella Tower© iStock