L’Ecole Des Vignes

L’École Des Vignes is part of a highly-regarded estate producing wine and olive oil in a stunning area of south-west Corsica, around 20-minutes from the historic village of Sartène. Here you are surrounded by incredible natural beauty and majestic views of the Cagna Massif.

Take in the views when walking through the domaine, following sign-posted trails across the 1000 hectares of vineyards, olive groves, maquis-covered countryside and beyond.

Within a 5 to 10 minute drive there are a couple of restaurants whilst the nearest shops and supermarkets can be found in either Sartène or Pianottoli, both around 20 minutes away via the winding country roads.

Sartène is an enchanting village surrounded by wonderful landscapes. Explore the old town, discover pretty shops and dine in traditional restaurants with picturesque terraces. The Saturday morning market is a particular delight where you will find locals selling Corsican honey, cheeses, cured meats as well as fruit and vegetables (there are also smaller markets on a Tuesday and Thursday from late June to August). The newly opened Musée Départemental de Préhistoire is a must for those interested in Corsica’s fascinating pre-historic remains (this region is where many of the hundreds of menhirs can be found).

Beach-lovers will adore this corner of south-west Corsica, especially the most beautiful Plage de Roccapina with its white sand and turquoise sea, perfect for snorkelling. From here you can follow a maquis-covered trail across to the lesser known Spiaggia di Erbaju – both beaches are incredible! Pack your picnic and sun-hats as there are no facilities on these two glorious beaches.

You can also visit the lovely coastline around the gulf of Figari and Pianotolli, around 25km away, or head a little further south to La Tonnara where there’s a great choice of watersports such as wind-surfing, kite-surfing and jet-ski. Tizzano (with an excellent beachside restaurant) and Campomoro can also be found further north towards Propriano.

A boat trip is another fantastic way to discover the south-western coast – take an organised tour, a fishing trip or even hire your own skipper for the day. If you are interested in diving then there are a couple of diving schools close by that are suitable for a variety of abilities and will take you out to some outstanding sites.

This is also a paradise for those who love walking – one of the most well-known hikes to the top of 'l'Omu di Cagna' departs from nearby Giannuccio (or the most experienced hikers can even walk there from the domaine). For horse lovers, two equestrian centres in the region offer rides near the sea and mountains.

Bonifacio is another magical place to spend the day. Explore its steep citadel on top of limestone cliffs, admire the mesmerising sea-views, discover pretty little shops and cafes and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the marina.

Boats depart from Bonifacio to the idyllic and remote Lavezzi Islands, wonderful for those who love walking and swimming in wild surroundings.

Read more about Southern Corsica

From the family-friendly beaches of Porto Vecchio to the dramatic mountain peaks of the Col de Bavella, the southern region of the Mediterranean’s fourth largest island offers you the diverse landscapes, historic towns and iconic coastline that Corsica is so famous for.

Starting in the south-eastern corner of the island, the coastline is truly impressive with turquoise coloured water and soft sand often backed by beachside restaurants and shady trees. Embrace the scent of salt air and pines at Plage de Pinarellu with its crystal-clear sea or spend the day at Plage de Saint Cyprien famed for its gently-shelving shores and summer watersports. On the other side of Porto Vecchio bay are the two famous beaches of Palombaggia and Santa Giulia – head out early to avoid the many visitors who flock to these photogenic beaches in the height of the summer. Further south, Plage de Rondinara is yet another idyllic bay with shallow clear water and fine white sand.

Experience the glamour of Porto Vecchio, once a historic harbour and citadel, now a vibrant town increasingly loved by jet-setters who appreciate its character and natural beauty. It’s a joy to potter around Porto Vecchio’s old town in the evening with boutiques, bars and a range of restaurants for every taste (seafood, pizzas, salads as well as more traditional Corsican dishes).  

The jewel of southern Corsica is arguably the exquisite town of Bonifacio with its historic citadel perched above dramatic limestone cliffs and the most incredible vistas of the sea. The citadel’s warren of medieval lanes will enchant you and there is a wealth of restaurants to choose from showcasing some of Corsica’s delicious cuisine – imagine lamb and rosemary, wild boar casserole with chestnuts, cannelloni au brocciu and Mediterranean seafood. Boats from the marina whisk you away to the Lavezzi Islands for more serene beauty. Meanwhile, keen golfers will already be familiar with the prestigious Golf de Spérone in a spectacular setting with views towards Sardinia.

Heading towards the south-west of the island, pass the wilder shores of the Figari coastline (Plage de la Tonnara is a  favourite) and venture through the mountainous landscapes of forest, vineyards and olive groves towards the mountain village of Sartène with its charming squares, restaurant terraces and wonderful market on a Saturday morning. Don’t miss pristine bays along the Valinco Gulf such as Campomoro and Porto Pollo as well as the pre-historic menhirs of Filitosa, before eventually arriving into the handsome city of Ajaccio, birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.

The rugged interiors of southern Corsica are also not to missed from the pine and beech forests of the Forêt de l'Ospédale near Porto Vecchio to the mountain village of Zonza and the incredible Col de Bavella peaks. Discover walking trails, hiking routes, rock-climbing, canyoning  and other adventures amidst the awe-inspiring scenery of Corse-du-Sud.

Whether you choose a rural bergerie near Porto Vecchio, a more contemporary abode overlooking the sea or a beautiful getaway with mountain views, Oliver’s Travels is proud to offer a range of hand-picked villas in southern Corsica.