THE REGION

L'Île-Rousse in Balagne

The town and its surroundings

Come and discover Ile Rousse and La Balagne!

Popular for its sandy beaches, the pleasant seaside resort of Île-Rousse is also famous for its pretty cobbled streets, its charming covered market with 21 columns and its Place Paoli, adorned with plane trees, which is the very heart of the town.

As you stroll through the cobbled streets of Île-Rousse, let the Mediterranean atmosphere envelop this charming seaside resort envelop you. The ochre-coloured facades of the houses contrast with the azure blue of the sky and sea, creating a picturesque scene worthy of the most beautiful postcards.

things to see and do

The covered market, with its 21 columns, is a veritable jewel where local flavours and vibrant colours mingle. The stalls are overflowing with fresh produce, from juicy fruit to full-bodied cheeses and aromatic herbs that fill the air. It's the perfect place to sample the delights of Corsican gastronomy and chat with passionate local artisans.
Don't miss the Place Paoli, the lively heart of the city. Surrounded by majestic plane trees, it offers a peaceful and friendly atmosphere. Take a seat on one of the café terraces lining the square, order a coffee and watch the life slowly unfold around you. Place Paoli becomes a meeting point for locals and visitors alike, a place where you can savour the passing of time.
But there's more to Île-Rousse than its picturesque town centre. Explore the secret coves along the coast, dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, or opt for a hike in the hinterland of La Balagne, where the trails reveal breathtaking panoramas.
Whether you're a beach-goer, a history and culture buff or a nature enthusiast, Île-Rousse and La Balagne have something for everyone. So let yourself be seduced by this pearl of Corsica, where the beauty of the landscape rivals the warmth of the welcome. Come and discover a corner of paradise, between sea and mountains, where every moment becomes an unforgettable getaway!

Ideas for outings

L'Île-Rousse, a prosperous little town

A little history

L'Île-Rousse, a prosperous little town that has been inhabited since ancient times, came into its own around 1758 under the Corsican Republic, when the illustrious Pascal Paoli decided to turn it into a commercial port in order to weaken the Genoese activity in the neighbouring ports of Algajola and Calvi. As a result, it is also known as the Paoline city.
The seaside resort also takes its name from the red porphyry islets along its coastline.
L'Île-Rousse is appreciated for its warm atmosphere and pristine white sandy beach, and can be explored through its cobbled streets with historic names: Pascal Paoli, Napoleon, the Arena brothers, Louis Philippe, Agilla... which run from the quays of the port to the covered market with its 21 columns, a listed historic monument.

Some of the Florentine-inspired houses are absolutely magnificent. The church of Notre Dame de la Miséricorde, originally built in the rue Notre Dame, was rebuilt on the heights of the town centre and adjoins the former Franciscan convent. As for the Church of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, it is located on the Place Paoli. It's a real eye-catcher, with its square and enormous date palms in the shade of which our elders love to lounge around and reflect on the world...

As you will have guessed, it has a rich heritage, and the famous Place Paoli, adorned with century-old plane trees, is the beating heart of the town.

You can also take advantage of water sports activities (jet-skiing, buoys, boat hire, paddle...).

Combining unspoilt nature and rich architecture, the commune is highly respected for the diversity of its activities and its idyllic setting.