Guide to Calvi

As yacht-goers approach the Corsican town of Calvi, they'll no doubt be drawn in by its impressive bastions supporting a sweep of ochre-topped buildings beneath the Mediterranean sun. Backed by a hazy mountainous horizon, the port town turned summer hotspot sits on the north-east coast of Corsica - 20km west of L’Île Rousse  - and is well-known among globetrotters for its beautiful crescent-shaped bay. 

The town’s famous medieval citadel was built by the Genoese between the 13th and 16th centuries and offers incredible panoramic views from its bastions, as well as regularly hosting music concerts. Towering over the harbour, the fortifications are situated in the northern part of the town and, within its walls, Calvi’s history presents itself. Winding cobbled streets lead visitors through the old town and past monuments such as the Cathedral of St Jean Baptiste and the Palace of the Bishops of Sagone, creating an immersive insight into Corsica’s past.

The promenade of the Quai Landry is where most of Calvi’s restaurants, bars and boutiques can be found, and behind this are the shaded cafes of Place Paoli and a covered market selling local produce. Calvi also sits on the edge of a UNESCO Marine World Heritage Site, so there are many diving and snorkelling opportunities in the marine-rich waters that surround the town. Those who prefer on-land adventures can take to a hillside walking trail up to the little chapel of Notre Dame de la Serra and be rewarded by spectacular views over the town’s sweeping bay.

Visiting Calvi by superyacht can easily be incorporated into a France luxury yacht charter. Accessible within just a few hours from the French Riviera, it offers an antedote to the glittering boutiques, restaurants and beach clubs of the main land and, instead, wows with its wild beauty and rustic charm.  It is also a must on any Corsica superyacht charter.

Begin discovering diverse yacht rental opportunities on offer around this part of the Mediterranean by getting in touch with your preferred charter broker and taking a look at all of the crewed yachts for charter in Calvi.