The most beautiful beaches of Northern Corsica

Northern Corsica is sometimes overlooked by beach lovers who head straight for the famous bays around Porto-Vecchio. That's a shame, because Northern Corsica has beaches that are every bit as impressive — and often considerably quieter. From wild, unspoilt coastline in the Agriates desert to charming sandy bays near Ile-Rousse: there's something here for every type of beachgoer.

Plage de Lotu (Agriates desert)

Possibly the wildest beach on Corsica. Only accessible by boat (shuttle from Saint-Florent, 30 minutes) or via a nearly 5-hour hike along the coastal path. The beach: 400 metres of fine white sand, turquoise water, no facilities. Bring a picnic and water. From Lotu you can walk on to the even more remote beach of Saleccia (45 minutes via the inland path).

Plage de la Roya (Saint-Florent)

The large sandy beach of Saint-Florent, within walking distance of the harbour. Supervised in summer, with water sports including windsurfing and kayaking. The large rock in the middle of the bay is an eye-catcher and an excellent snorkelling spot. A special bonus: trees behind the beach provide natural shade. The beach slopes gently, making it ideal for young children.

Tip Walk through to the second part of the beach, past the bridge. The sand is finer there, the views are better, and the atmosphere is more relaxed.

Plage de Tamarone (Cap Corse)

One of the most beautiful beaches on Cap Corse, near Macinaggio. Accessible via an unpaved track or on foot along the customs path. About 500 metres long in an unspoilt setting, with small inlets and rocks on the right side. In summer there's a beach hut at the car park.

Plage de Ghjunchitu (near Ile-Rousse)

This 500-metre sandy beach near Corbara is one of the finest in the Balagne. Surrounded by scrubland, with clear water and rocks for snorkelling. There's a small beach bar. Dogs not allowed. Parking in two spots along the T30, 250 to 600 metres' walk away.

Plage de l'Ostriconi

A wild 700-metre beach at the beginning of the Agriates desert. Dunes, a small river, and barely any facilities. Supervised in summer, but beware: in rough seas there are dangerous currents. Park along the old national road, then make a steep descent to the beach.

Plage de Farinole (Cap Corse)

The only true sandy beach on the west coast of Cap Corse. Actually two beaches, separated by rocks. In summer it can get busy. In mistral conditions swimming is dangerous here, but surfers turn up. Accessible via the D81 and D80 from Saint-Florent, towards Marine de Farinole.

Plage d'Arone (near Piana)

One of the most beautiful beaches on the west coast, 12 kilometres from Piana. This 750-metre beach is surrounded by pink rocks with views of Capo Rosso. Beach restaurants and sun lounger hire available. The drive along the D824 offers spectacular views. Parking is tricky during peak season.

Nonza: the black beach

Completely different from every other beach on this list. The beach at Nonza consists of grey gravel and stretches 1.4 kilometres below the hilltop village. Access is via a staircase of over 500 steps from the village. The beach itself isn't the main reason to come — the spectacular view from the village and the unique colour of the beach are.

Tip Northern Corsica is generally less touristy than the south. Even in peak season you'll find beaches here where you can relax without it being overcrowded. The beaches around Saint-Florent and in the Balagne are the most accessible; the Agriates beaches require more planning but reward you with absolute tranquillity.