Springtime in the Grand Valinco region

Arriving via Ometo, « the balcony of the Valinco », you overlook the plain of  Baracci with Propriano nestled at the back of the Gulf of Valinco.

Head to Porto-Pollo, a small family seaside resort that is renowned for its diving sites, notably « Les Cathédrales », and for the incredible richness of its underwater plants and wildlife.

Make the most of this quiet season to stroll along the largebeach of Cupabia and collect « Yeux de Sainte Lucie », opercula of shellfish, which bring good luck in Corsican tradition.

Return to the marina of Propriano for an excursion out to sea towards Campomoro or Bonifacio and don’t hesitate to stop at a terrace to sample a dish of grilled fish or lobster, a locally caught speciality. If the sea is too rough, travel to the south of the Gulf of Valinco and visit thefortified tower of Campomoro with the children and be sure to admire the 360° panoramic view.

Just 15 minutes from Propriano, Sartène, the gateway to southern Corsica, is well worth a stop at the Place de la Porta. You can take the opportunity to visit the cobbled old town or the numerous artisans that run shops in the narrow streets. La Colomba, the character by Prosper Merimee originated from this region.

Good Friday in Sartène is a religious ceremony that consists of a procession led by a hooded penitent with bare feet, carrying heavy chains and a cross in order to atone for his sins by reliving the martyrdom of Christ. If you would like to attend this nocturnal ceremony that attracts the faithful in great crowds, please take extra care with regards to parking and booking a hotel in advance.

After having left Sartène, travelling back down towards the sea, take the picturesque route that leads to the small port of Tizzano that is defended by a fort.

Taravo Valley

The long valley of the Taravo starts out at the coast of Valinco and climbs back up towards the centre of Corsica. It is divided into 2 territories; the lower and upper Taravo.

In lower Taravo, be sure not to miss the prehistoricsite of Filitosa, an ancient cultural and megalithic centre with its iconic representation of the statues-menhirs. This site offers the chance to take the children on a walk through a magical landscape.

Heading back up the valley to Sainte Marie Sicché along the national road from Petreto-Bicchisano, make a stop at Bains de Taccana or Bains de Guitera, whose beneficial spa waters have been enjoyed since Roman times.

Above Bains de Guitera, you enter the upper Taravo valley. The main speciality of this region is its charcuterie, the quality of which has always been famous.

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