The small town of L'Ile-Rousse, Isola-Rossa in Corsican, derives its name from red rocks that have created islets, including the Pietra Island and its lighthouse. Established by Pascal Paoli around 1759, L'Ile-Rousse initially served as a port to disrupt maritime traffic between Genoa and Calvi.

The town gradually developed, beginning with Place Paoli, adorned with its beautiful plane trees, then the old town, Notre Dame Street with its charming cobblestones, and later the Church of the Immaculate Conception.

If you're an early riser, you can enjoy the town's charms while it still sleeps... Artisans and merchants slowly settle under the Covered Market next to Place Paoli, before the first customers arrive around 7 a.m. to buy fruits and vegetables or local honey and charcuterie.
If you weren't on time at the port for the fishermen's arrival, purchase your fresh fish at the market.

Stop by the Le Bon Café roastery to visit us, or we will be delighted to welcome you to this magical, unchanged place since 1932.
On-site and traditional roasting, sale of coffee and tea, collection of mills and jute bags, not to be missed!

The town centre is bordered by the mythical Marinella promenade, ending at the "Tino Rossi" square, and its half-ruined Genoese tower. L'Ile-Rousse and La Balagne are steeped in history. Come and spend unforgettable holidays, and we will guide you on cultural, religious or sporting heritage, and especially on the restaurants, we are bon vivants and very gourmand!

There is so much to do and discover in Balagne: stroll through the small villages of the micro-region, go hiking or splash around in the clear waters, there's no time to get bored, and Corsica is full of little secrets! We've crafted a bucket list of Balagne activities and visits for you, follow the guide...

Just a 10-minute drive away, you will find the nearest beach to Ile-Rousse. Dominated by the Ile de la Pietra, this beach is the only one in Corsica located right in the city centre, park your car and dive right in!

If you find it too touristy and want to venture off the beaten track, 20 minutes from the residence on the road to Bastia lies the Agriates and its Ostriconi beach, with turquoise waters and maquis awaiting you!

Towards Calvi, you also have choices: relax at Ghjunchitu while enjoying good fish, at Bodri beach, or the Marine de Davia with its warm rocks for sunbathing peacefully.

If you wish to rent a boat, go diving or jet skiing, feel free to ask us, maps will be available in the apartments and at the reception.

Starting directly from the Residence, you can explore our trails.
The view from the summit of Monte Sant’Angelo (Mount Saint Angel) is breathtaking! A short hike in the heart of nature to enjoy and share over two or three hours round trip. This small peak overlooks the Corbara convent and the Annunziata church. From its 562m height, you'll have a 360-degree view of L'Île-Rousse, Corbara, Algajola, Pigna, Sant'Antonino, the Reginu Santa-Reparata, and many more...

For a quick morning jog, there’s a simpler option: start with a light run from Place Paoli, passing in front of “L’Encre,” admire the sunrise over the Marinella up to the port of Ile-Rousse, and then tackle the climb to the Pietra Lighthouse; it's worth the effort!

Let's leave Ile-Rousse and head towards Calvi… A brief stop at Lumio to visit the old village of Occi: renovated chapel and ancient ruined dwellings, this small village has retained all its charm. The hike is very easy, and it starts behind the Hotel Restaurant "A Casa di Mà".

Challenging hike, starting from the chapel of Notre Dame de La Serra, offering the most beautiful panorama over the town of Calvi, protected by the Virgin Mary on her rock.
The Cross of the Austrians on Capu di A Veta is a substantial cross, 8 metres in length, with a span of 5 metres and a total weight of 830 kg. This magnificent cross has been part of Calvi’s heritage for nearly 60 years.

If you are experienced athletes, you can tackle something tough…
The legendary GR20, starting from Calenzana, just 25 minutes by car from the Residence. Enchanting setting, between river and mountain, 15 stages, from Calenzana to Conca, crossing from north to south, 180 km, with a positive elevation gain of about 11,000 metres. It requires perseverance and preparation, but it could be the most beautiful experience of your life!

Just like with the seaside aspect, if you wish to rent bicycles, go on a hike with a professional guide, go canyoning or set off on excursions, flyers will be available for you!