Ajaccio and the Porto coves: a van road trip between sea and mountain

From the imperial city to Porto’s red coves, embark on a wild road trip across Corsica. Dream beaches, hilltop villages and breathtaking landscapes await you.

Between Ajaccio, Napoleon’s birthplace, and the Porto coves, a UNESCO-listed natural gem, Corsica unfolds its treasures for van travellers. Here, you can alternate between swimming in turquoise waters, heart-stopping hikes and cultural discoveries, all with the freedom that nomadic life brings. Pack your sandals, sunscreen and appetite: the Corsican adventure starts now.

Palais Fesch - Musée des Beaux-Arts

This 19th-century palace houses an impressive collection of Italian paintings, including works linked to the Bonaparte family. Its neoclassical architecture and gardens make it a must-visit in Ajaccio.

Where to sleep nearby

Municipal parking Ajaccio Parking ★ 4.4 Free parking 6 minutes’ walk from the centre, spacious and practical for campervans. Rated 4.4 from 31 reviews. › Camping les Mimosas Campsite ★ 3.9 Quiet campsite 24 minutes’ walk away, shaded pitches and clean facilities. Rated 3.9 from 210 reviews. › Beach bar parking Grosseto-Prugna Parking ★ 3.8 Free beachfront parking, relaxed vibe near a beach hut. 6 minutes by car (6 km). › Camping Barbicaja Campsite ★ 3.3 Family-friendly campsite 50 m from the beach, bus to Ajaccio every 30 minutes. Rated 3.3 from 274 reviews. › Free parking facing the sea Ajaccio Parking ★ 3.9 Seafront parking with unobstructed views, peaceful but busy in summer. 17 minutes’ walk. ›

Plage du Trottel

Just minutes from Ajaccio, this fine-sand beach with crystal-clear waters is perfect for a relaxing break. Ideal for families, it also offers stunning views of the Sanguinaires Islands.

Where to sleep nearby

Beach bar parking Grosseto-Prugna Parking ★ 3.8 Beachfront parking with a beach hut nearby. Easy campervan access, 7 minutes by car. › Camping les Mimosas Campsite ★ 3.9 Shaded and quiet campsite 18 minutes’ walk away. Clean facilities, ideal for visiting Ajaccio. › Camping Barbicaja Campsite ★ 3.3 Family-friendly campsite 50 m from the beach. Bus route 5 to Ajaccio, warm welcome. › Free parking facing the sea Ajaccio Parking ★ 3.9 Small, quiet seafront parking. Unobstructed views, 21 minutes’ walk. › Beach parking without restrictions Grosseto-Prugna Parking ★ 3.4 Direct beach parking with bay views. Public showers and toilets, 7 minutes by car. ›

Îles Sanguinaires

Reachable by boat from Ajaccio, these islands with their red rocks owe their name to a bloody legend. Their nature reserve is home to preserved flora and fauna, offering wild landscapes.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking des Iles Sanguinaires Parking ★ 4.3 Flat parking at the foot of the islands, free overnight. 31 minutes’ walk, rated 4.3. › Parking by the sea Ajaccio Parking ★ 3.7 Sea views and swimming nearby, free. 5 minutes by car (4 km), natural setting. › Parking with sea views Ajaccio Parking ★ 4 Perched spot with stunning views, 2-3 spaces. 33 minutes’ walk, quiet and wild. › Capo Di Feno beach parking Ajaccio Parking ★ 3.8 Beachfront and sunset views, free. 8 minutes by car (8 km), bins on site. › Off-grid seaside parking Ajaccio Parking ★ 4.2 Spectacular sunsets, 4x4 access. 38 minutes’ walk, absolute peace. ›

Calanques de Piana

UNESCO-listed, these red porphyry cliffs sculpted by erosion provide a one-of-a-kind spectacle. The winding road that cuts through them is a must for lovers of grand landscapes.

Where to sleep nearby

Bend parking Piana Parking ★ 4.6 Breathtaking views over the bay and coves, 18 minutes’ walk. Rated 4.6 from 134 reviews, free. › Camping d'Arone Campsite ★ 3.9 Shaded campsite 500 m from Arone beach, 125 pitches. 6 minutes by car, quiet, rated 3.9. › Bussaglia Beach Parking Serriera Parking ★ 4.4 Large gravel beach parking, direct access to a pebble beach. 7 minutes by car, free, rated 4.4. › Les Oliviers Campsite ★ 3.9 Heated pool and views of Porto, on-site restaurant-pizzeria. 7 minutes by car, paid campsite, rated 3.9. › Plateau view parking Piana Parking ★ 4.1 Panoramic views over Arone bay, parking for 3-4 vehicles. 32 minutes’ walk, free, quiet. ›

Réserve de Scandola

Accessible only by sea, this nature reserve is home to golden eagles, dramatic cliffs and sea caves. A must for those who love untouched nature.

Where to sleep nearby

Gite d’étape U Pagliaghju Campsite ★ 4.8 Cosy cottage 10 minutes’ walk from the sea, top-rated facilities (4.8/5). Warm welcome, 9 minutes by car (8 km). › Hiking trail parking Osani Parking ★ 4.2 Spacious parking with magnificent views, hiking start point (Girolata). Free, 8 minutes by car (7 km). › Quiet path parking Osani Parking ★ 3.8 Discreet alcove, flat and quiet in a protected area. Free, 8 minutes by car (7 km). › Staff parking Osani Parking ★ 2.9 Isolated parking, 4x4 access recommended, near a small port. Free, 7 minutes by car (6 km). ›

Village of Porto

This small fishing port with its colourful houses is the ideal starting point for exploring the coves. Its authentic atmosphere and fresh seafood restaurants make it a gourmet stop.

Where to sleep nearby

Bend parking Piana Parking ★ 4.6 Breathtaking views over the coves. 8 minutes by car, free and rated 4.6. › Camping Corsica Gradelle Campsite ★ 4.2 Nature campsite 6 km away, pebble beach 300 m away. Quiet with clean facilities. › Bussaglia Beach Parking Serriera Parking ★ 4.4 Pebble beach and restaurants 21 minutes’ walk away. Free and spacious parking. › Camping Funtana de l'Ora Campsite ★ 4.2 Heated pool with sea views, 34 minutes’ walk. Shaded terraces among the rocks. › Seaside parking Ota Parking ★ 4 Direct beach and shop access. Free, 5 minutes’ walk from the centre. ›

See all spots on the map