Calvi Things To Do

Calvi's beach sweeps around the coastline for 6km and, as it gently shelves into the Mediterranean and is patrolled by life-guards, is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. An array of sun lounges and umbrellas mean plenty of relaxation for all and the beach is served by various bars and restaurants. Other nearby beaches to visit includes St. Restitude and Pointe de la Revellata.

 

Water sports to enjoy in the Calvi's sheltered bay include windsurfing (popular in Corsica thanks to the ever-present winds) kite surfing, sailing, waterskiing, kayaking and paragliding, as well as banana boat rides and jet skiing. Scuba diving is available from Calvi, and the coastline is filled with interesting craggy coves and bays to explore - perfect for snorkelling.

 

Depart from Calvi harbour and explore the surrounding bays and coves from the comfort of the water, in a catamaran or glass bottomed boat. Popular boat trips from Calvi include visits to Ajaccio, and the Scandola Nature Reserve - a UNESCO World Heritage site.

 

Take a walk or hike into the Corsican countryside behind the town and explore the stunning scenery, full of fragrant forests, olive groves, vineyards and orchards, which often hides picturesque villages, ancient churches and charming little towns. 

 

Also available is mountain biking and horse riding, and there are plenty of trails and tracks to follow throughout the scenic countryside and along the coast. Many of the hotels in Calvi also have tennis courts. 

 

A must-see is the famous Genoese Citadel, dating back to the 15th century, home to cobbled streets, medieval passageways and the Cathedral (which hosts weekly polyphonic concerts). Walking tours of the citadel are available, and the area offers interest to both history and culture-lovers alike, and boasts stunning views across to the mountains. The marina and port area is lively and bustling, and a great place to soak up Calvi's cosmopolitan atmosphere and watch the world go by.

 

Take the scenic train ride along the beautiful coastline to L'Ile Rousse and stroll round the town with its local market, head to the Strada di L'Artiglani and browse the artist's workshops, or visit the charming fishing village of Algajola. Alternatively, take a tour of the French Foreign Legion base just outside Calvi.

 

Calvi hosts various festivals, such as the Jazz Festival in June, 'Calvi on the Rocks' in July, and the Wind Festival during October.