How to Plan Your Tour in Cargèse: Le Grand Tour

If you are planning on visiting Corsica, you definitely don’t want to miss Cargèse, a small village in the western part of the island that offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean. If you are a sea lover, you will be pleased to know that you can plan a tour to discover the charming surroundings of Cargèse. The Cargèse: Le Grand Tour offers an amazing sea trip where you will explore the Scandola Nature Reserve, enjoy Corsican music, and have a guided tour of the sea. In this article, we will guide you on how to plan your tour in Cargèse and what you should expect during your journey.

Experience

The Cargèse: Le Grand Tour offers an unforgettable experience to all its guests. The tour includes a guided sea trip and a stop at the Scandola Nature Reserve, a World Heritage Site known for its unique geological formations, diverse fauna and flora, and crystal clear waters. You will have the chance to see many landmarks such as Capu Rossu and the creeks of Piana, and explore the fishing village of Girolata with a 30-minute stop.

Highlights

The tour highlights include the following:

• Experience a guided sea trip in Cargèse, Corsica
• Discover the Scandola Nature Reserve, a World Heritage Site
• Explore the fishing village of Girolata
• Enjoy Corsican music
• Stop at Capu Rossu and the creeks of Piana

Details of Scandola Nature Reserve

The Scandola Nature Reserve is located on the west coast of Corsica, approximately halfway between the towns of Calvi and Porto. The reserve encompasses an area of approximately 900 hectares of land and 1000 hectares of sea, making it one of the most exceptional sights in Corsica. It is home to many endemic plant and animal species, and its geological formations are unique and impressive.

Enjoy Corsican Music

During your tour, you will have the chance to enjoy the traditional Corsican music. Corsican music is deeply rooted in the island’s culture and history, and its unique sound will transport you to another world. You will have the opportunity to listen to some of the island’s most famous songs, and learn more about the Corsican culture.

Guided Sea Trip

The guided sea trip is definitely one of the highlights of the Cargèse: Le Grand Tour. The tour will begin in the port of Cargèse, where you will meet your skipper, Jean-Baptiste. From there, you will sail towards Capu Rossu and the creeks of Piana, and explore the fishing village of Girolata. You will have the chance to observe the stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean, and take in the fresh sea air.

Full Description

The full description of the Cargèse: Le Grand Tour is as follows: “Begin your sea adventure in the port of Cargèse. Accompanied by your skipper Jean-Baptiste you will sail towards Capu Rossu and the creeks of Piana for a visit to the caves with the swimming break depending on weather conditions. Explore the fishing village of Girolata with a 30-minute stop. Explore the caves of Scandola Nature Reserve a World Heritage Site to the south-west of Calvi on the Cape Girolata peninsula (hal way down the west coast of Corsica). The reserve covers approximately 900 hectares of land and 1000 hectares of sea and is an exceptional sight even among the many natural wonders that you will discover in Corsica. Finish your tour with a return to Cargèse enjoying a little tune of Corsican music.”

Includes

The Cargèse: Le Grand Tour package includes the following:

• Sea trip in a semi-rigid boat
• Snorkeling masks
• Windbreaker
• Gratuities

Not Suitable For

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women and people with mobility issues.

Booking Information

If you’re interested in booking the Cargèse: Le Grand Tour, you can do so by clicking on this link: book the tour here. We hope that this guide has been helpful to you in planning your tour in Cargèse. The Cargèse: Le Grand Tour is an experience that you will never forget, and we highly recommend it to all sea lovers visiting Corsica.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cargèse

Cargèse is a commune located in the southwestern part of the island of Corsica in France. It is a picturesque town that is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and stunning architecture. Here are some frequently asked questions about Cargèse:

1. What is the history of Cargèse?

Cargèse has a very interesting history. The town was founded by the Greeks in the 17th century and was originally called Kalliste. In the 18th century, the town was taken over by the Genoese who renamed it Cargèse. The town was officially annexed by France in 1768. During the 19th century, Cargèse became an important religious center for the Greek community. Today, the town is still home to a Greek Orthodox Church and a Latin Catholic Church that face each other across the town’s main square, symbolizing the town’s unique cultural heritage.

2. What are the best things to do in Cargèse?

Cargèse is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, and rich history. Some of the best things to do in Cargèse include:

• Visiting the Greek Orthodox Church and the Latin Catholic Church in the town center
• Exploring the winding cobblestone streets of the town
• Relaxing on one of the town’s many beautiful beaches such as the Plage de Peru or the Plage du Pero
• Exploring the nearby Calanches de Piana, a stunning rocky coast with impressive rock formations
• Hiking the Mare e Monti trail that runs through the nearby hills and provides stunning views of the island

3. What is the climate like in Cargèse?

Cargèse has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. The average high temperature in summer is around 28°C (82°F) while the average low in winter is around 5°C (41°F). The best time to visit Cargèse is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are at their best.

4. What is the local cuisine in Cargèse?

Corsican cuisine is known for its use of fresh, local ingredients such as seafood, meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Some of the must-try dishes in Cargèse include:

• Brousse du Rove: a fresh cheese made from goat’s milk that is often served with honey and walnuts
• Charcuterie: Corsican cured meats such as coppa, lonzu, and figatellu
• Chestnut flour dishes: sweet and savory dishes made with chestnut flour such as beignets de farine de chataigne (chestnut flour fritters)
• Seafood: fresh seafood dishes such as bouillabaisse (fish stew), grilled octopus, and moules marinières (mussels in white wine)
• Wine: Corsican wines such as Patrimonio and Ajaccio are a must-try with any meal

5. What are the best accommodations in Cargèse?

Cargèse offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets. Some of the best options include:

• Hotel le Saint Jean: a beautiful hotel located in the town center that offers stunning views of the sea
• Residence Salina Bay: a modern apartment complex located near the Plage de Peru
• Les Bergeries de Palombaggia: a beautiful villa located near the famous Palombaggia beach
• Villa Giannelli: a charming bed and breakfast located in a historic building in the town center

Book Your Tour Now

Cargèse is a beautiful town with a rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches. It offers a range of activities for visitors, including exploring the winding cobblestone streets, relaxing on the beautiful beaches, and hiking the nearby Mare e Monti trail. Visitors can also enjoy the local cuisine, which features fresh seafood, meats, cheeses, vegetables, and wines made from local grapes. With a mild Mediterranean climate, Cargèse is a great destination to visit year-round.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cargèse

Cargèse is a small village located in the south of Corsica, a French island in the Mediterranean Sea. This charming coastal town has a rich history, breathtaking natural scenery, and plenty of attractions to keep tourists entertained. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors or soak up some local culture, there’s something for everyone in Cargèse.

1. Visit the Greek Orthodox Church

One of the most unique attractions in Cargèse is the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint-Spyridon. The church was built in the 19th century by Greek refugees who settled in the town after the Ottoman Empire invaded their homeland. The church is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, with intricate mosaics, frescoes, and iconography. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or religious art.

2. Explore the Calanches de Piana

The Calanches de Piana is a UNESCO World Heritage site located just a short drive from Cargèse. This natural wonder is a series of red granite rock formations that have been shaped by wind and water over millions of years. The Calanches offer some of the most breathtaking views in Corsica, and there are plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives that allow visitors to explore the area up close.

3. Relax on the Beach

Cargèse is home to several beautiful beaches, including Plage du Pero, Plage de Chiuni, and Plage de la Menasina. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing with a good book. Many of them offer rental equipment such as kayaks and paddleboards, and there are plenty of beachside cafés and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

4. Try Some Local Cuisine

Corsican cuisine is a blend of French and Italian influences, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Some must-try dishes in Cargèse include fiadone (a type of cheesecake), brocciu (a soft, fresh cheese), and Corsican cured meats such as lonzu and coppa. There are plenty of local restaurants and cafés where you can sample the best of Corsican cuisine.

5. Take a Boat Tour

Cargèse is located on the western coast of Corsica, and there are plenty of boat tours that offer visitors a chance to explore the coastline. Some tours take you to secluded beaches and coves, while others offer a chance to see marine life such as dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. A boat tour is a great way to see more of the island and experience the natural beauty of Corsica.

6. Visit the Capu di Muru

The Capu di Muru is a rocky promontory that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Sagone. There’s a hike to the top of the promontory that takes about 45 minutes, but the views are well worth the effort. From the top, you can see the surrounding mountains, the sea, and the villages of Cargèse and Sagone. It’s a popular spot for watching the sunset or having a picnic with a view.

7. Learn Some Local History

Cargèse has a rich history that’s tied to both Greek and Corsican culture. There are several museums and historical sites in the town that offer a glimpse into the area’s past. The Musée de Cargèse is a great place to start, with exhibits on local flora and fauna, traditional Corsican costumes, and archaeological artifacts. Other historical sites include the Église Saint-Spiridon and the Genoese tower of Omigna.

8. Go Scuba Diving

Corsica is known for its crystal-clear waters, and Cargèse is no exception. There are plenty of scuba diving opportunities in the area, with dive sites ranging from shallow reefs to deep wrecks. Some sites are accessible from shore, while others require a boat. If you’re new to scuba diving, there are plenty of dive shops in Cargèse that offer courses and lessons.

9. Attend a Festival

Corsicans love to celebrate, and there are plenty of festivals and events throughout the year in Cargèse. One of the most popular is the Fiera di l’Alivu, a festival dedicated to the local olive harvest. The festival features tastings of olive oil, local crafts, and traditional music and dance. Other festivals include the Fiera di San Ghjuvanni and the Fête de la Saint-Elisée.

10. Go Wine Tasting

Corsica is home to several vineyards that produce high-quality wines. The wines are made from local grape varieties such as Sciaccarello and Vermentino, and they’re known for their unique flavor profiles. Some vineyards offer tours and tastings, where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and sample the wines.

Book Your Tour Now

Cargèse may be a small town, but it’s full of charm and character. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local culture, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque village. From exploring the Calanches de Piana to sampling local cuisine, there are plenty of ways to spend your time in Cargèse. So why not book a trip today and see what this hidden gem of Corsica has to offer?