The Ultimate Guide to Corsica by Campervan (2025)

Updated: Published:

Campervan on the Corsican coast with cliffs and blue sea.

A journey through Corsica is a unique exploration of a continent in miniature. This rugged Mediterranean jewel, known as the Isle of Beauty, offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, from shimmering turquoise bays to the severe majesty of granite peaks. A campervan grants you the freedom to experience it all at your own pace.

This mode of transport allows you to wake up to the sound of waves, lunch in the shadow of a Genoese tower, and fall asleep under a canopy of stars in a high mountain clearing.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Why Corsica by campervan

Bavella mountains at sunset rising above rugged Corsican pine forests.

Corsica's blend of French and Italian culture, stylish coastal towns, dense forests, and craggy mountains makes it an ideal destination for a road trip. Exploring by campervan is arguably the best way to experience this diversity, offering unparalleled freedom to move between turquoise beaches and alpine scenery as you wish. It transforms a simple holiday into a grand tour where the journey itself is the destination.

  • Flexibility. You can discover the entire island, from the wild Cap Corse peninsula to the iconic cliffs of Bonifacio, without the constraints of a fixed itinerary.
  • Nature immersion. Almost half the island is a protected regional park, and a campervan lets you stay close to some of Europe's most unspoiled nature and challenging hikes.
  • Cost-effective. Having your kitchen and bed on wheels can lead to significant savings on restaurants and hotels, though other costs like the ferry and fuel must be considered.

1.1 Realistic travel times

Don't be deceived by Corsica's size on a map; its winding roads mean journeys take much longer than on mainland highways. The island has no motorways, so all travel is on two-lane roads that can be narrow and slow, especially on the west coast and in the interior, where average speeds may be only 30–50 km/h. Plan your itinerary with these realistic times in mind.

Route Km Typical time
Bastia → Bonifacio
(East coast)		 170 km 3h 10m
Bastia → Ajaccio
(via Corte)		 150 km 2h 45m
Calvi → Porto 75 k4 1h 50m
Porto → Corte
(via D84)		 85 km 2h 15m
Ajaccio → Bonifacio 130 km 2h 35m

Note: These are non-stop driving times. Always add extra time for stops, traffic in high season, and navigating narrow sections.

1.2 Who is this for?

  • Adventurous travellers. Ideal for those who value flexibility and the outdoors and are not intimidated by narrow mountain roads.
  • Families. Many kid-friendly campsites offer pools and playgrounds, making it a great option for family holidays.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts. A campervan is the perfect base for those eager to hike, snorkel, or explore a new natural spot each day.

If your idea of a perfect holiday involves a mix of beaches, mountains, and cultural sites, a Corsican road trip will be incredibly rewarding. However, if you prefer large cities or the comfort of all-inclusive resorts, be aware that the island's charm lies in its small villages and natural landscapes rather than major urban attractions.

2. Getting to Corsica with your campervan

Corsica Sardinia Ferries ship cruising across the calm Mediterranean sea.

2.1 Ports and operators from France & Italy

As Corsica is an island, the journey begins on the Mediterranean Sea. The ferry crossing is the first major logistical decision, dictating your starting point and the initial flow of your itinerary. Several major operators, including Corsica Ferries, Moby Lines, Corsica Linea, and La Méridionale, connect ports in mainland France and Italy to the island's main gateways like Bastia, Ajaccio, L'Île-Rousse, and Porto-Vecchio. The choice of route is strategic; arriving in Bastia in the north is ideal for exploring Cap Corse, while docking in Ajaccio on the west coast provides immediate access to the Calanques de Piana.

Reference table

Departure Arrival Operators Indicative duration*
Marseille (FR) Ajaccio Corsica Linea,
La Méridionale		 ≈ 11–13 h (night)
Marseille (FR) Bastia Corsica Linea,
La Méridionale		 ≈ 11–13 h (night)
Toulon (FR) Ajaccio Corsica Ferries ≈ 7–13 h 30
(day or night)
Nice (FR) Bastia Corsica Ferries ≈ 5 h 45–13 h 45
Livorno (IT) Bastia,
L'Île-Rousse		 Corsica Ferries,
Moby Lines		 3h 00m–8h 00m
Savona (IT) Bastia,
L'Île-Rousse		 Corsica Ferries 5h 00m–9h 00m
Genoa (IT) Bastia, Ajaccio Moby Lines 5h 00m–12h 00m
Piombino (IT) Bastia Corsica Ferries,
Moby Lines		 2h 30m–5h 00m
Santa Teresa
Gallura (Sardinia)		 Bonifacio Ichnusa Lines,
Moby Lines		 0h 50m–1h 00m

*Durations are approximate and vary by specific ferry, operator, and sea conditions.

2.2 What to declare and prepare (campervan)

  • Dimensions. When booking, you must accurately declare your campervan's length and height, including any extras like bike racks or roof boxes. Ferry companies price tickets in tiers based on these measurements, so incorrect information can lead to hefty surcharges at the port.
  • Gas/LPG. All gas supplies must be turned off at the cylinder before boarding and remain off for the entire journey. Each company has specific rules; for example, Corsica Ferries only permits bottles secured in a dedicated built-in compartment, while La Méridionale allows up to three bottles with a total gas weight not exceeding 47 kg. Verify your setup complies with your chosen operator's policy to avoid being denied boarding.
  • LPG-powered vehicles. If your vehicle runs on LPG or methane, you must declare it at booking. Moby Lines requires the tank to be no more than half-full upon arrival for boarding.
  • Pets. You must declare any pets when booking and pay a fee. They generally must be leashed and muzzled in public areas on board. An EU pet passport with vaccination records is required. Some companies, like Corsica Ferries, offer pet-friendly cabins.

2.3 Boarding: timings and tips

  • Arrival time. Punctuality is key. Ferry companies require vehicles to arrive at the port at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure to allow for security checks and orderly boarding.
  • Loading process. Campervans are often loaded early. Follow staff directions to your assigned lane. Be prepared for tight parking on the vehicle deck, where vehicles are packed closely together. Drive slowly and fold in your mirrors.
  • Onboard access. Once parked, access to the vehicle deck is prohibited for the duration of the crossing. Before leaving your campervan, pack a separate bag with everything you will need for the journey, such as luggage, food, and medication.

2.4 Budget tips

  • Book early. Reservations open months in advance, and booking early is the best way to secure lower fares, especially for high season.
  • Travel off-peak. The high season of July and August is the most expensive. Travelling in the shoulder seasons (June or September) can significantly reduce costs and you'll find fewer crowds. Avoiding weekend departures can also lower the price.
  • Compare routes and crossings. Our recommended comparison site is Direct Ferries, which lets you check schedules and fares from multiple operators in one place. Overnight crossings can save a night’s accommodation; daytime ferries are usually cheaper if you don’t need a cabin.

3. Rules and overnighting in Corsica

3.1 Wild camping: prohibited and fined

The single most important rule to understand is that wild camping—camping sauvage—is strictly prohibited across the entire island. This is not a loosely enforced guideline but a "golden rule" backed by significant penalties to protect Corsica's fragile ecosystems. Authorities conduct regular inspections, and locals have little tolerance for unauthorized camping due to past issues with litter and wildfires.

  • "Parking" is not "Camping". The law distinguishes between parking and camping. A campervan can legally park in a public space like a car. However, any behaviour that suggests you are staying overnight—such as extending an awning, setting out tables and chairs, or using levelling jacks—is considered camping and is illegal in a public car park.
  • Heavy fines. Those caught camping illegally face fines that can range from €200 to as high as €1,500, depending on the location and circumstances.

This prohibition applies to both public and private land (without permission) and is especially enforced near beaches, nature reserves, and historic sites. The risk of a fine and being ordered to move, possibly in the middle of the night, makes it an unwise choice.

This strict ban creates a "closed system" for overnight stays, meaning every night must be spent in a legally designated location. Fortunately, Corsica is well-equipped with authorised options for campervan travellers.

Type Quick description
Campsites ("Campings") Pitches with services (water, electricity, dump point),
often by the beach or in the mountains.
Campervan Service Areas ("Aires") Designated areas in some campsites or towns,
with water, dump point and sometimes electricity.
France Passion Free stopovers at farms/vineyards for members,
in exchange for a local purchase.

During the peak season of mid-July to mid-August, this system creates an intense "accommodation squeeze". Campsites fill up quickly, and spontaneity can become a liability. Arriving in a popular area like Porto-Vecchio late in the afternoon without a reservation will likely result in having nowhere to stay. Pre-booking or calling ahead is a near necessity in summer.

By using these legal sites, you support the local economy, minimise your environmental impact, and help maintain a positive image of campervan travellers in Corsica.

4. Where to sleep — by region

Beachfront pitch at Camping San Damiano in Corsica with campervan.

Corsica's campsites and campervan areas are spread across all regions, offering a wide range of options from simple farm sites to full-featured resorts. The following tables highlight a selection of well-regarded spots known for their location or services, which can serve as reliable stopovers on your journey.

4.1 Cap Corse & Bastia

This region offers scenic, often quieter sites perfect for the start or end of a trip, especially when using the Bastia ferry port.

Name Type Water Dump Power
Camping San Damiano
(Biguglia/Bastia)		 Campsite 4★ Yes Yes 6 A/10 A
Camping Santa Marina
(Santa Severa)		 Campsite /
Service Area		 Yes Yes Yes
Ersa Aire
(Cap Corse)		 Service Area Yes (fee) Yes  
Camping La Pietra
(Pietracorbara)		 Campsite Yes Yes Yes

4.2 Balagne

Known as the "garden of Corsica," this area provides excellent bases for exploring the charming towns of Calvi and L'Île-Rousse and the surrounding artisan villages.

Name Type Water Dump Power
Le Domaine du Clos des Chênes
(Lozari)		 Campsite Yes Yes 6 A
Camping Le Bodri
(Corbara)		 Campsite 3★ Yes Yes Yes
Camping Le Panoramic
(Lumio)		 Campsite 3★ Yes Yes Yes
Camping La Pinède
(Calvi)		 Campsite 5★ Yes Yes 10 A

4.3 Gulf of Porto & Calanques de Piana

Accommodation here is concentrated around the village of Porto, offering access to the spectacular Calanques and the Scandola Nature Reserve. Pitches can be tight or on slopes due to the terrain.

Name Type Water Dump Power
Camping Municipal d'Ota-Porto
(Porto)		 Municipal
Campsite		 Yes Yes Partial
Camping Les Oliviers
(Porto)		 Campsite 3★ Yes Yes Yes
Camping Funtana a l'Ora
(Porto)		 Campsite Yes Yes Yes

4.4 Inland

Staying near Corte is the perfect strategy for exploring the island's historic capital and hiking in the magnificent Restonica and Tavignano valleys.

Name Type Water Dump Power
Camping Restonica
(Corte)		 Campsite Yes Yes Yes
Camping Alivi di a Restonica
(Corte)		 Campsite Yes Yes Yes
Ferme de Peridundellu
(Venaco)		 Farm
Campsite		 Yes Limited Yes

4.5 South

The south is dense with high-quality campsites, providing excellent bases for visiting Bonifacio's cliffs and the world-famous beaches near Porto-Vecchio.

Name Type Water Dump Power
Camping La Pomposa
(Bonifacio)		 Campsite 2★ Yes Yes Partial
Camping Rondinara
(Bonifacio)		 Campsite 4★ Yes Yes Yes
Camping U Pirellu
(Porto-Vecchio)		 Campsite 4★ Yes Yes Yes

4.6 West

The area around Ajaccio offers several convenient options for exploring the imperial city, its surrounding beaches, and the scenic Route des Sanguinaires.

Name Type Water Dump Power
Camping Les Mimosas
(Ajaccio)		 Campsite 2★ Yes Yes Yes
Camping Barbicaja
(Ajaccio)		 Campsite 2★ Yes Yes Partial
Camping Benista
(Porticcio)		 Campsite 4★ Yes Yes Yes

During the high season in July and August, it is crucial to arrive at your chosen campsite by early to mid-afternoon. Many popular sites display a "Complet" (Full) sign after 17:00, so it is wise to have a backup option in mind each night.

5. Driving in Corsica: key roads & tricky sections

Cap Corse coastal road curving along cliffs above the sea.

5.1 Scenic but narrow routes

Driving a campervan in Corsica is spectacular but challenging. The island has no motorways, and many routes are narrow, steep, and winding, especially along the coast and in the mountains. Patience and caution are essential.

  • D80 - Cap Corse Loop. The western coast of this peninsula is notoriously narrow, with precipitous drops to the sea and minimal guardrails. It is highly recommended to drive this loop clockwise (Bastia up the east, down the west) to keep your vehicle on the inside, mountain-facing lane.
  • D81 - Calanques de Piana. The section between Porto and Piana is extremely narrow, winding through rock formations with tight, blind corners. It is effectively a single lane in many spots, and meeting a tourist coach requires immense patience and careful manoeuvring. Driving northbound (Piana to Porto) is recommended to stay on the safer, rock-face side of the road.
  • D268 - Col de Bavella. This mountain pass is generally accessible for campervans but is very twisty with numerous switchbacks. Go slowly and use a low gear on descents. The car park at the top can get very busy, so plan accordingly.
  • D623 - Restonica Valley. This dead-end road is legendary for its difficulty and is not suitable for most campervans. It quickly narrows to a single track carved into cliff sides. Access is often restricted, with a shuttle bus running from Corte being the recommended way to visit the valley.

5.2 Parking and manoeuvres

Navigating towns and villages requires a specific mindset. Local drivers are used to the roads and tend to drive faster; it is good etiquette to pull over where possible to let them pass.

  • Town parking. Parking in historic town centres is highly challenging, if not impossible. Look for designated "camping-car" parking areas, which are often located on the outskirts. The best strategy is often to park at a nearby campsite and walk or use public transport.
  • Village streets. Be cautious following GPS through old villages like Sartène or Corte's old town. They often have narrow streets, tight 90° turns, and low archways that are unsuitable for campervans. It is always better to park outside and walk in.
  • Road hazards. In rural Corsica, it is normal to encounter cows, goats, and pigs on the road—they have the right of way! Slow down and pass them cautiously.

5.3 Water and dump points

To support responsible travel, Corsica has a network of service areas (aires de service) for essential vehicle maintenance. These are the only acceptable places to manage your waste.

  • Location. Service points can be found within most campsites, as standalone municipal or private areas, or even at farms participating in networks like France Passion. Apps like Park4Night can help locate them.
  • Fees. Campsites typically include water and dumping services for their guests. Some will allow non-guests to use the facilities for a small fee (e.g., €5). Standalone automated stations may charge a couple of euros for water or electricity.
  • Responsible dumping. Never dump greywater (from sinks and showers) or blackwater (from the toilet) in nature, on roadsides, or down storm drains. This is illegal, harmful to the environment, and disrespects the island's commitment to eco-responsible tourism.

6. Optimised itineraries

A successful Corsican campervan itinerary is not measured in kilometres covered, but in moments savoured. The island's challenging geography dictates a slower pace, where road difficulty, not distance, governs the day's plan. The following itineraries are designed as flexible frameworks, encouraging a deeper exploration of fewer regions rather than a rushed tour of the entire island.

6.1 7-day itinerary — “North” or “South”

Option A · 7 days North

Day Base Highlights
D1 Bastia Bastia old port; Drive east Cap Corse; Macinaggio
D2 Saint-Florent West Cap Corse; Nonza; Saint-Florent town
D3 Calvi / Balagne Agriates Desert (boat to Saleccia); Calvi citadel
D4 Calvi / Balagne Balagne villages route (Sant'Antonino, Pigna); Beach time
D5 Porto Scenic D81 drive south; Scandola boat tour from Porto
D6 Corte Calanques de Piana; Drive inland via Evisa
D7 Bastia Hike Restonica or Tavignano valley; Return to Bastia

Option B · 7 days South

Day Base Highlights
D1 Ajaccio Ajaccio market; Filitosa prehistoric site; Propriano harbour
D2 Bonifacio Explore Bonifacio citadel & cliffs; Lavezzi Islands boat trip
D3 Porto-Vecchio Beach day at Palombaggia & Santa Giulia
D4 Alta Rocca Drive to Col de Bavella via Ospedale; Hike Trou de la Bombe
D5 Sartène / Valinco Explore Sartène; Relax at Campomoro or Roccapina beach
D6 Ajaccio Return to Ajaccio; Drive Route des Sanguinaires for sunset
D7 Ajaccio Final swim at Capo di Feno or Barbicaja; Departure

With only one week, it is best to focus on either the north or the south. The northern route emphasizes rugged coastlines and mountains, while the southern option focuses more on iconic beaches and the dramatic cliffs of Bonifacio.

6.2 10-day itinerary — Balanced North & West

This comprehensive loop provides an excellent overview of the island's diversity, balancing the challenging western roads with cultural exploration and mountain scenery, while omitting the far south to maintain a relaxed pace.

Day Base Highlights
D1 Bastia Bastia; Drive Cap Corse loop (east side)
D2 Saint-Florent Finish Cap Corse loop (west side); Nonza; Saint-Florent
D3 Saint-Florent Boat or 4x4 trip to Saleccia/Lotu beach in Agriates
D4 Calvi L'Île-Rousse; Bodri beach; Calvi citadel
D5 Calvi Explore Balagne hilltop villages (Pigna, Sant'Antonino)
D6 Porto Iconic D81 coastal drive south; Arrive in Porto
D7 Cargèse / Ajaccio Calanques de Piana; Visit Cargèse; Continue to Ajaccio
D8 Ajaccio Ajaccio market; Route des Sanguinaires at sunset
D9 Corte Drive inland via Vizzavona pass; Explore Corte's old town
D10 Bastia Morning hike in Restonica Valley; Return to Bastia

This itinerary covers the wild Cap Corse, the charming Balagne, the spectacular Gulf of Porto, the capital city of Ajaccio, and the historic heart of the island in Corte.

6.3 14-day itinerary — Full loop

Two weeks is the recommended duration for a full "Grand Tour," allowing you to experience all of Corsica's major highlights at a reasonable pace. A clockwise direction from Bastia is often suggested to tackle the challenging west coast roads with the vehicle on the safer, mountain side.

Days 1–14

Day Base Highlights
D1 Porto-Vecchio Arrive Bastia; Drive fast N198 south; Stop at Aléria ruins
D2 Porto-Vecchio Morning at Palombaggia beach; Afternoon at Santa Giulia
D3 Alta Rocca Drive to Col de Bavella; Hike among the "Needles"
D4 Bonifacio Explore Bonifacio citadel & marina; Lavezzi Islands boat tour
D5 Propriano Visit Sartène; Relax at Campomoro Beach
D6 Ajaccio Visit Filitosa menhirs; Explore Ajaccio's Napoleon sites
D7 Ajaccio Route des Sanguinaires; Hike the Sentier des Crêtes
D8 Porto Drive north via Cargèse; Navigate the Calanques de Piana
D9 Porto Morning boat trip to Scandola Nature Reserve & Girolata
D10 Calvi Drive inland via Col de Vergio or coast via Galéria
D11 Calvi Explore Calvi's citadel; Relax on the beach
D12 Saint-Florent Explore Balagne villages; Visit L'Île-Rousse
D13 Cap Corse Drive the D80 loop, stopping in Nonza and Centuri
D14 Bastia Final exploration of Bastia's old town; Departure

7. Beaches & nature accessible by campervan

Palombaggia Beach, Corsica, with turquoise water and umbrella pines.

Corsica is famed for its breathtaking beaches and wild landscapes. While many are easily reachable by campervan, some of the most legendary spots require alternative means of access due to rough or narrow tracks.

7.1 Beaches with reasonable access

  • Palombaggia. Often called Corsica's most iconic beach, it is accessible via a paved road that leads to large, paid car parks behind the beach where motorhomes can fit. Arrive by 09:00 in high season to secure a spot.
  • Santa Giulia. This famous turquoise lagoon has a sizeable paid car park near the beach that is accessible to campervans. It offers watersports and restaurants but can get extremely busy.
  • Rondinara. This perfect horseshoe bay is reached via a 3 km unpaved but passable road. Alternatively, stay at the campsite on the hill above and walk or take their shuttle down.
  • Calvi Beach. The long, crescent-shaped bay of Calvi is highly accessible, with several campsites located right behind it and parking available along the seafront road, making for an easy beach day.
  • Ostriconi Beach. A wild, spacious beach at the edge of the Agriates Desert, accessible from a parking lay-by on the main N1197 highway, followed by a short walk down to the sand.

7.2 Beautiful beaches with restricted access

  • Saleccia & Lotu. These legendary white-sand beaches in the Agriates Desert are not accessible by campervan. The track is extremely rough and only suitable for 4x4s. The best way to visit is by taking a boat taxi or a 4x4 shuttle from Saint-Florent.
  • Plage d'Arone. Located near Piana, this gorgeous beach is at the end of a narrow, winding, and paved road. While larger campervans can manage it with care, the drive can be stressful for some.
  • Lavezzi Islands. This stunning archipelago is accessible only by boat. Park your campervan in Bonifacio and take one of the frequent excursion boats for a day of snorkelling in the pristine coves.
  • West Cap Corse Beaches. Some beaches on the rugged western side of Cap Corse, such as Barcaggio, have weight limits or very narrow approach roads, making them unsuitable for larger vehicles. It's often better to park before the village and walk.

7.3 Top hikes & nature viewpoints

  • Col de Bavella. The car park at the pass is the starting point for numerous trails. The most popular is the easy, family-friendly hike to the Trou de la Bombe ("Bomb Hole"), a spectacular natural arch eroded into the granite.
  • Restonica Valley. From a campsite in Corte, take the shuttle bus up the valley to hike to the stunning glacial lakes of Lac de Melu and Lac de Capitello. This is one of Corsica's classic mountain hikes.
  • GR20 Day Hikes. The campervan is perfect for accessing sections of the legendary GR20 trail. You can park at road intersections like the Col de Vizzavona (to hike to the Cascades des Anglais) or the Col de Vergio (to walk to the beautiful Lac de Nino) and return to your vehicle at the end of the day.

8. Budget — benchmarks & quick estimate

Expense item Benchmark €
Ferry crossing (campervan + 2 pers.) ≈ €350–€900 (return)
Campsite fees (2 pers. + power) ≈ €30–€60 / night
Service Area fees (2 pers.) ≈ €12–€25 / night
Fuel (1-week loop) ≈ €80–€160
Boat trip (Scandola/Lavezzi) ≈ €35–€80 / person
Groceries & light meals (daily, 2 pers.) ≈ €25–€70
Estimated total / 7 days ≈ €420–€840 (for two)

This budget provides a rough estimate for a couple travelling for one week in their own campervan during high season, covering daily living costs but excluding the one-time ferry expense and major activities. The largest expense after the ferry is often the cumulative cost of campsites, as wild camping is not a legal option. You can significantly reduce costs by travelling in the shoulder season, cooking most of your meals, and choosing simpler campsites.

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger towns and supermarkets, carrying cash is essential. Many smaller businesses, rural restaurants, market stalls, and some basic campsites operate on a cash-only basis. ATMs (distributeurs) are available in most towns but can be scarce in the remote interior, so it is wise to withdraw a healthy supply of cash whenever you are in a larger centre.

9. Best time & climate

9.1 When to go and what the weather changes

Corsica's climate is Mediterranean on the coast, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, while becoming more Alpine in the mountains. The best time for a campervan trip depends on balancing weather, crowds, and cost, as conditions change dramatically throughout the year.

The shoulder seasons—May, June, and September—are often considered the ideal time to visit. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm (20–27 °C days), the sea is warm enough for swimming, and the crowds are far smaller than in peak summer. May and June see the island in bloom, while September benefits from the warmest sea temperatures of the year. In contrast, July and August offer guaranteed hot weather and long days but come with peak crowds, traffic congestion near beaches, full campsites, and the highest prices. Winter (November to March) is very quiet, with many tourist services closed and the potential for snow and road closures in the mountains.

9.2 Wind and sea

Corsica is a windy island year-round. Strong winds like the Mistral (from the northwest) or Libeccio (southwest) can affect the west coast, making the sea choppy and driving a high-sided vehicle more challenging. In very windy conditions, ferries can be delayed. The sea is generally calmest in the mornings during summer and can be beautifully placid in early autumn, which is perfect for boating.

10. Apps

Tool What it does
Park4Night User-submitted spots for overnight parking, campsites,
service points, and picnic stops with photos/reviews.
Campercontact Finds official campsites and dedicated
campervan service areas (aires) across the island.
CampingCard ACSI Lists campsites offering discounted
flat-rate prices during the low season.
Ferryhopper Compares ferry schedules, prices,
and routes from all major operators in one place.
Météo-France Provides detailed and reliable local weather forecasts,
crucial for planning mountain hikes.
AllTrails / Visorando Offers downloadable hiking trail maps
and route descriptions for exploring Corsica on foot.

11. FAQ

11.1 Can you sleep outside campsites/service areas in Corsica?

No. Wild camping is strictly prohibited across the entire island and is not tolerated. Authorities regularly patrol sensitive areas, and those caught face hefty fines ranging from €200 to €1,500. You must spend the night in one of the 200+ official campsites, designated campervan service areas (aires), or authorised private spots.

11.2 What campervan size works best?

Smaller is better. A compact campervan under 6 metres long will be much easier to handle on Corsica's narrow and winding roads. While vehicles up to 7.5 metres are manageable with caution, they will be restricted from some scenic routes and will find parking more challenging. If you are renting, choose a compact model.

11.3 How much does the ferry cost with a campervan?

The price varies dramatically by season, route, and vehicle size. A return trip for a campervan and two people can range from around €300–€400 in the shoulder season to €600–€800 or more in peak summer. Booking well in advance and travelling off-peak are the best ways to secure lower fares.

11.4 In 7 days is North or South better?

It depends on your interests, as you should focus on only one region in a week. The North offers rugged coastlines like Cap Corse, the dramatic Calanques de Piana, and mountain scenery around Corte. The South is famous for the iconic white-sand beaches near Porto-Vecchio (Palombaggia, Santa Giulia) and the spectacular cliff-top town of Bonifacio.

11.5 Which roads should long vehicles avoid?

Large campervans should be extremely cautious or avoid the following: the D81 through the Calanques de Piana (extremely narrow); the D80 on the west coast of Cap Corse (narrow with sheer drops); and the D623 into the Restonica Valley (unsuitable for most campervans and access is restricted). Also, never follow a GPS into the historic centres of old towns.

11.6 What are the rules for gas on board the ferry?

On all operators, gas cylinders must be turned off for the entire crossing. Policies on carrying bottles vary: La Méridionale permits up to three bottles not exceeding a total gas weight of 47 kg, while Corsica Ferries only allows bottles that are secured in a dedicated, built-in vehicle compartment. Always check the specific rules of your chosen ferry company before booking.

11.7 Is Scandola accessible by road or on foot?

No. The Scandola Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a protected area that is accessible only by boat. Excursion boats depart regularly from the ports of Porto and Calvi, offering the definitive way to experience its unique rock formations and pristine waters.

11.8 Can you reach Saleccia/Lotu by campervan?

No. These two legendary beaches are located in the remote Agriates Desert, and the dirt track leading to them is extremely rough and unsuitable for motorhomes or standard cars. The best and recommended way to visit is to park in Saint-Florent and take a boat shuttle or a 4x4 taxi service.



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