Cargèse is a picturesque coastal village located in Southern Corsica (Corse-du-Sud), renowned for its unique and fascinating Greek-Corsican identity. Founded in the 17th century by Greek colonists, the village stands out for its two churches, one Latin and one Greek, facing each other, symbolizing the peaceful coexistence of the two cultures. Overlooking a crystal-clear sea, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and red-sand beaches, Cargèse is a gem on the western coast, ideal for those seeking a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. It's an excellent stop along the route between Ajaccio and the Calanques de Piana.

What Our Local Guides Recommend Seeing: Culture, Sea, and Landscapes

• The Two Churches (Les Deux Églises) – The Greek Church of Saint Spyridon and the Latin Church of Saint Erasmus, facing each other on the hill, are the symbol of the village's dual identity.
• Chiuni Beach (Spiaggia di Chiuni) – One of the most beautiful and wild beaches in the area, with coarse sand and turquoise waters, often windy, ideal for water sports.
• Pero and Menasina Beaches – Close to the village, they offer equipped beach clubs and shallow waters, perfect for families. We recommend visiting in the early morning to admire the intense colours of the sea.
• Genoese Tower – One of the watchtowers dotting the Corsican coast, offering an excellent panoramic viewpoint.

Gastronomy and Typical Products

Cargèse's cuisine combines the flavours of Corsican gastronomy with Greek influences, offering rich and aromatic dishes.

• Brocciu – A fresh goat or sheep cheese, an essential element of Corsican cuisine, used in sweet and savoury dishes.
• Figatellu – A dried liver sausage, to be enjoyed grilled, typical of Corsican charcuterie.
• Miel de Corse AOP – High-quality honey produced in the Mediterranean scrub, with unique aromatic notes.

Real Experience: Diving and Calanques

Cargèse's location makes it the ideal starting point for a boat excursion to the magnificent Calanques de Piana (UNESCO Heritage) and the Scandola Reserve. It is an unforgettable experience, but we recommend booking the excursion departing from the port in advance. For sea lovers, the coast's transparent water is perfect for snorkeling and diving, especially in the Capo Rosso Natural Reserve.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Cargèse
• Official Tourism Website of Corsica

Top 3 Recommended Accommodation Selected by our Local Guides

• Hôtel Thalassa – Offers a spectacular view of the gulf and privileged access to the beach, with good services.
• Hôtel Bel'Ombra – Located in a panoramic position, with a family atmosphere and good value for money.
• Résidence Roches Rouges – Offers apartment accommodations with sea view, ideal for longer stays.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• A Stonda – Traditional Corsican cuisine and local specialties, with a lovely terrace.
• Le Bel'Ombra – Excellent for fish dishes and Mediterranean specialties, with a view of the port.
• Taverne Grecque Les Deux Églises – Offers dishes with Greek influences, a tribute to the village's unique identity.