If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Cargese.
Nestled among the jagged peaks and shimmering coastline of Corsica lies the charming village of Cargese, a hidden gem of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
With a myriad of activities ranging from exploring historic landmarks and sampling local cuisine to basking in the Mediterranean sun and plunging into crystal-clear waters, Cargese offers an immersive and unforgettable experience for any adventurer.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Cargese:
1. Plage de Pero
Plage de Pero is a beautiful stretch of sandy beach located in the charming town of Cargese on the western coast of Corsica.
What to see or do: Visitors to Plage de Pero can spend their days lounging on the soft sand, swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, or trying their hand at various water sports such as snorkeling, paddle-boarding, or kayaking.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll along the coastline to admire the stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and bays. During sunset, the sky turns into a beautiful palette of pink and orange hues making it the perfect romantic spot.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re looking for a quieter experience, go in the early morning or during the weekdays.
2. Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Serra
A beautiful chapel perched on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in the town of Cargese, Corsica.
What to see or do: Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding landscape as you hike uphill to the chapel. Once there, admire the intricate mosaics and frescoes that adorn the interior of the chapel.
Don’t miss: Sunset views from the hilltop location are particularly spectacular, so time your visit accordingly.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and water, as the climb to the chapel is steep and can be hot in the summer months.
Don’t forget your camera, as the views from the top are breathtaking and you will want to capture them.
3. Menhir de Carghjaghju
Menhir de Carghjaghju is a monolithic standing stone located in Cargese, Corsica.
What to see or do: Visit Menhir de Carghjaghju to appreciate the prehistoric monument and the scenic views it offers.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the surrounding nature and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and to fully enjoy the serene ambiance of the site. Additionally, bring comfortable shoes as the surrounding terrain can be rocky and uneven.
4. Plage d’Arone
Plage d’Arone is a beautiful sandy beach located near the village of Cargese on the west coast of Corsica.
What to see or do: Enjoy the crystal-clear waters for swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding. Relax on the beach and soak in the sun.
Take a stroll along the shore or hike in the nearby hills for stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscapes.
Don’t miss: The sunset over the bay is simply breathtaking. Be sure to stick around until the evening and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach or grab some food from the nearby snack bar. Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach as it can get crowded during peak season.
Parking can be limited, but there is additional parking available about a 10-minute walk away.
5. Musée Les Tortues de l’Ospedale
The Musée Les Tortues de l’Ospedale is a small museum dedicated to the conservation and protection of turtles.
What to see or do: Visitors can see different species of turtles, learn about their habitats and their unique biology, and watch videos about conservation efforts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the museum’s outdoor turtle enclosures, where visitors can observe turtles in a natural environment.
Insider travel tips: Plan on spending about an hour at the museum. Keep in mind that the museum is located in a rural area, so it’s best to have your own transportation.
Also, be sure to ask the museum staff for information about local turtle conservation efforts and how you can get involved.
6. Plage de Chiuni
A stunning beach located in Cargese, Corsica, with crystal-clear waters and fine sand.
What to see or do: Swim, sunbathe, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The beach is also popular for water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Don’t miss: Walking up to the top of the hill to get a panoramic view of the entire beach and the nearby town of Cargese.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. There are also a few restaurants near the beach where you can grab a bite to eat.
Be sure to bring your own towels and umbrellas, as they are not available for rent on the beach.
7. La Tour Génoise
A historic Genoese tower located in the coastal town of Cargese, Corsica.
What to see or do: Explore the tower and take in its striking architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding sea and mountains.
Inside, learn about the tower’s history and significance as a defensive structure during the Genoese occupation of Corsica in the 16th century.
Don’t miss: The chance to climb to the top of the tower and take in the breathtaking views. Be sure to bring your camera and capture the stunning scenery.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for climbing the tower’s steep and narrow stairs.
On your way up, take note of the fascinating architectural details, such as the slits for archers and the multiple levels that served various defensive functions.
Also, consider visiting at sunset for an unforgettable experience.
8. Le Capu d’Ortu
Le Capu d’Ortu is a nature reserve and hiking trail located in the charming village of Cargese on the western coast of Corsica.
What to see or do: Hiking is the main attraction here, as the nature reserve offers stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding countryside.
The trail is well-maintained, and visitors can choose between a shorter hike to the summit or a longer hike that passes through charming villages and beautiful landscapes.
Don’t miss: Make sure to bring your camera as there are numerous picturesque spots along the trail, including the ancient Genoese tower on the summit, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to start the hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Also, be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
If you’re traveling in the peak summer season, it’s a good idea to book accommodations in advance as the village can get quite crowded.
9. Pointe de Chiappa
A picturesque peninsula located in the Corsican town of Cargese, that is popular among tourists for its scenic views.
What to see or do: Enjoy a day trip to Pointe de Chiappa with its stunning beaches, clear waters, and rock formations. You can also go snorkeling, kayaking, and indulge in beach activities.
Take a hike to the lighthouse located on the top of the peninsula and enjoy the panoramic views of the sea.
Don’t miss: The charming fishing village, with its colorful boats and houses, tucked away on the peninsula. The beach at the base of the lighthouse is also not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: Opt for a guided tour to explore the hidden gems and secret beaches on the peninsula. Carry ample water and sunscreen as the sun can be quite intense.
Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.
10. Calanche de Piana
Calanche de Piana is a spectacular cluster of red granite rock formations located in Piana, Corsica.
What to see or do: Take a scenic drive through the winding roads and admire the stunning views of the sea and the mountains. Go on a hiking trail and explore the unique rock formations up-close.
Take a boat tour to see the Calanche from a different perspective.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the sunset over the Calanche – the sky transforms into a beautiful canvas of colors.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit Calanche de Piana during the offseason to avoid the crowds. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water if you plan to go on a hike.
If you’re driving, be prepared for narrow roads with sharp turns.
11. Eglise Saint-Spyridon
A beautiful Greek Orthodox church located in the coastal village of Cargese in Corsica, France.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture of the church, which was built in the 19th century and is modeled after the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.
Explore the interior, which is adorned with intricate frescoes and icons.
Don’t miss: The annual festival that takes place in August, where locals and visitors come together to celebrate Saint-Spyridon with traditional Greek music, dance, and food.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to dress modestly when visiting the church, covering your shoulders and knees. If you want to attend the festival, book your accommodation in advance as it gets busy during this time.
12. Sentier des Crêtes de Cargèse
Sentier des Crêtes de Cargèse is a hiking trail that runs along the mountain ridge of Cargese, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding countryside.
What to see or do: Hiking along the Sentier des Crêtes de Cargèse is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Corsica.
The route runs for about 10 kilometers, starting from the village of Cargese and going up to Punta di Cargese.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the panoramic views of the Gulf of Sagone and the surrounding villages from the top of Punta di Cargese.
Also, keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including wild boar and birds of prey.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen. It’s also recommended to start the hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
Be sure to check the weather forecast before setting off, as the trail can be dangerous in wet or stormy conditions.
13. Tour de Turghiu
A guided mountain bike tour through rugged and breathtaking terrain in Cargese, Corsica.
What to see or do: Explore wild trails, remote villages and stunning beaches while riding through the hilly landscape. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air as you challenge yourself with different levels of difficulty.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views from the highest points of the mountains and taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Insider travel tips: Bring sunscreen, a backpack with essentials for the day, and comfortable clothes and shoes. For a more challenging ride, ask your guide to navigate through steeper trails.
Make sure to try the local cuisine and wines during your stay in Corsica.
14. Plage de Chiuni
Plage de Chiuni is a stunning sandy beach located in the small village of Cargese on the west coast of Corsica.
What to see or do: The beach offers crystal clear turquoise waters and is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking.
There are also hiking trails around the area for those who enjoy exploring.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take in the sunset over the ocean from the beach; it’s truly spectacular. And, if you’re lucky, you may spot a pod of dolphins swimming by.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach as it can get crowded in the summer. There are no restaurants or shops nearby, so bring your own supplies for a picnic.
Additionally, be aware that the road leading to the beach can be challenging for those driving larger vehicles.
15. Plage de Pero
Plage de Pero is a beautiful semi-urban beach located in the city of Cargese, on the west coast of Corsica, France.
What to see or do: This crescent-shaped beach offers clear turquoise waters, soft sand, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or rent paddleboats and kayaks to explore the coastline.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll along the promenade that lines the beach, where you can find a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants.
Visit the nearby Chapelle Saint-Spyridon, a stunning Greek Orthodox church with a vibrant blue dome.
Insider travel tips: During the peak summer season, the beach can get crowded, so it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. Parking can also be difficult to find, so consider taking a bus or taxi if possible.
Additionally, be aware of the strong wind that can pick up in the afternoon, making swimming and water activities more challenging.
