Ah, Corsica! Between its dream beaches, majestic mountains, and picturesque villages, the island of beauty has much to offer. But like any paradise, there are some places to avoid if you want your vacation to not turn into a nightmare. Rest assured, nothing too dramatic, but it’s better to be informed before embarking on the adventure. Here is a small selection of places to avoid in Corsica, to fully enjoy without any unpleasant surprises!
Isolated beaches without surveillance
In Corsica, there is no shortage of paradise beaches. However, some are so isolated that they can become a real trap for the unwary. Without surveillance, these beaches are often very popular with peace lovers, but beware of ocean currents! Among the most dangerous, you will find :
- Plage de Saleccia: Magnificent, wild, but without surveillance. If you go there, be prepared to deal with sometimes treacherous currents.
- Plage de Tamarone: Great for nature lovers, but here too, caution is advised, especially in the evening when the winds pick up.
Even though these places are incredibly beautiful, it is better to go there with knowledge. You can have a magical time, but don’t forget to respect the safety instructions, especially if you swim alone or are inexperienced with ocean currents.
Risky mountain roads
Driving in Corsica is a bit like entering a life-size roller coaster. If you are not used to driving in the mountains, some roads can make you break out in cold sweats. Tight turns, narrow and often poorly maintained roads, not to mention the goats that cross without warning. Here are some roads you might want to avoid, especially if you aren’t a driving ace:
| Route | Danger level | Particularities |
|---|---|---|
| Route de la Restonica | Very dangerous | Narrow road, tight turns, and little space for passing |
| Col de Bavella | Moderate risk | Beautiful but winding with steep slopes and hairpin turns |
Caution is required on these roads, especially in bad weather. Make sure you have a vehicle suitable for mountain driving and avoid driving at night, it will already save you some sweats!
Unmarked hiking trails
If you are a hiking enthusiast, you will love Corsica. The island is full of trails, each more beautiful than the next. But beware, some are unmarked and can be dangerous for novices. Without clear signage, it is easy to get lost or encounter unexpected obstacles.
- Sentier de Monte Cinto: If you want to tackle the highest peak in Corsica, do it on marked trails. The unofficial variants are really treacherous!
- Vallée du Fango: A sublime area, but its unmarked trails can lead you to steep and dangerous areas.
When you go hiking, don’t skimp on preparation: a map, water, a first aid kit, and a fully charged phone can save you. And above all, if a path seems doubtful, turn back, it’s not the time to play the adventurer!
Risk areas in cities: Ajaccio and Bastia
Corsica is generally very safe, but like everywhere, there are some less frequented areas. If you plan to stroll in Ajaccio or Bastia, be careful in certain neighborhoods, especially at night.
- Ajaccio: Its outskirts can be a bit tense at night. No need to freak out, but avoid venturing into poorly lit areas if you are alone.
- Bastia: The citadel and port areas, although charming during the day, are less recommended at nightfall. Stay on your guard and avoid deserted alleys.
Common sense is your best ally in these cities: stay in well-lit and lively places, especially if you are not familiar with the area.
Dangerous rivers during floods
The rivers in Corsica are a spectacle in themselves, and many offer natural pools where you can swim. But beware of sudden floods! With heavy rains or snowmelt, these rivers quickly turn into dangerous torrents.
- Cascades des Anglais: Very popular near Vivario, they become extremely dangerous during floods.
- Rivière du Fango: Known for its natural pools, but beware of the rapid rise in water level after rainfall.
Always check the weather before venturing near rivers and waterways. Avoid unsupervised areas and respect prohibition signs. It’s better to miss a swim than to find yourself caught in a flood.
Table of main dangers to avoid in Corsica
| Place | Main risk | Safety advice |
|---|---|---|
| Isolated beaches | Strong ocean currents | Prefer supervised beaches and respect local guidelines |
| Mountain roads | Tight turns and narrow roads | Do not drive at night, use a suitable vehicle |
| Unmarked trails | Risk of getting lost | Use a detailed map and stay on marked trails |
| Rivers in flood | Sudden floods | Check the weather and avoid areas after rainfall |
And there you go, with all this information in mind, you are ready to enjoy Corsica in complete safety. Of course, it’s not about being afraid at every street corner, but taking the necessary precautions to avoid minor inconveniences. After all, Corsica is a paradise, so may your stay be one too!
If you want more advice for preparing your adventures in Corsica or elsewhere, feel free to share this article or discover my other guides. There is still plenty to explore, and believe me, it’s better to be well informed to avoid trouble.
