Villa Neroli

Villa Neroli is located in the south of Corsica, less than a 10-minute drive to the much-loved town of Bonifacio. Not overlooked and enjoying 180-degree views of natural landscapes, the villa is set within a private Santa Manza domaine of just twelve other residences. Here the houses are surrounded by the aromas of wild maquis with distant valley vistas.

Following the country road down to the coast, after 1.5km you will reach a little hamlet and marina, pizzeria (seasonal opening) and the edge of a picturesque bay. Various summer boat excursions depart from the marina and there is a range of watersports dotted along the bay. Continue further along the bay to a couple of beachside restaurants. In the other direction, around 3.5km away, is a picturesque sheltered bay popular with windsurfers.

Bonifacio is 8km by car – perhaps start off by the marina and watch yachts sail by from a café terrace or restaurant serving local seafood. Then climb up to Bonifacio’s incredible citadel and explore its medieval lanes perched above a limestone promontory. The citadel is home to charming shops, wine-bars and restaurants serving delicious Corsican fare. Check opening times of L’Escalier du Roy d'Aragon, the steep and historic stairs leading down towards the sea.

Ferries depart Bonifacio’s marina to the remote Lavezzi Islands, part of the Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve, or take a boat excursion to admire Bonifacio’s limestone cliffs and sea caves from afar. It goes without saying that this corner of the island is fantastic for snorkelling and scuba-diving.

Back on dry land, play golf or tennis at the prestigious Golf de Spérone (10km) and ride horses through the countryside, along the beach or even by the cliffs. There are many wonderful walking trails whether following the dramatic cliff paths from the citadel, or hiking along footpaths through the wild landscapes of maquis with idyllic vistas of the sea. The old Strada Vecia trail, for example, dates back centuries and passes a lighthouse and pretty beaches.

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.