Corsican Places
01489 866992
  • Corsica

Moriani Plage & the East Coast

A relaxed blend of long sandy beaches, clear Mediterranean waters and lush countryside. Backed by the foothills of Castagniccia, the region combines coastal relaxation with traditional villages, chestnut forests and authentic Corsican character, making it ideal for travellers seeking a quieter side of the island. 

EXPLORE MORIANI PLAGE & THE EAST COAST

Moriani Plage & the East Coast at a glance

Offering a wonderfully relaxed escape, combining long sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters with lush, mountainous scenery. Moriani Plage is an easy-going seaside resort with a good choice of restaurants and watersports, while the surrounding coastline is dotted with smaller beaches and traditional villages. Inland, the chestnut-covered hills of Castagniccia provide a striking contrast, with scenic walking routes, historic villages and a glimpse into Corsica’s rural traditions. The region is ideal for travellers looking to combine relaxed beach days, outdoor activities and authentic Corsican culture away from the island’s busier resort areas. 

Discover accommodation in Moriani Plage & the East Coast

What makes this region stand out?

Moriani Plage and Corsica’s East Coast stand out for their long sandy beaches, lush scenery and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike the more rugged west coast, the eastern shoreline is greener and gentler, with wide beaches backed by pine and eucalyptus. Inland, the dramatic hills and chestnut forests of Castagniccia offer a fascinating contrast, with traditional villages, historic churches and mountain scenery to explore. The region also provides a more laid-back alternative to Corsica’s better-known resorts, making it ideal for travellers seeking a combination of beach relaxation, nature, local culture and authentic island life. 

MAP KEY:

Airport

Beach

Places to visit

Towns/ Islands

National Parks

Historical Site

When to visit Moriani Plage & the East Coast

The best time to visit Moriani Plage and Corsica’s East Coast is May to June and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, the countryside is lush, and the beaches are less crowded than during the peak summer months. June and September are particularly good for swimming and watersports, while spring is ideal for exploring Castagniccia’s villages and mountains. July and August offer the hottest weather and long, sunny days, making them perfect for a classic beach holiday, although the coast is considerably busier. 

Spring – April to May 
A lovely time for exploring the East Coast, with mild temperatures, green landscapes and spring flowers. Ideal for walking, sightseeing and discovering the villages of Castagniccia before the summer heat arrives. 

Early Summer – June 
Warm, sunny days and increasingly warm seas make June excellent for beach days, swimming and watersports, while visitor numbers are generally lower than in July and August. 

Peak Summer – July to August 
The hottest and driest period, perfect for relaxing on the region’s long sandy beaches and enjoying the Mediterranean. Expect the liveliest atmosphere and busiest beaches, particularly around Moriani Plage. 

Early Autumn – September to October 
September offers warm temperatures, pleasant sea conditions and fewer crowds, making it an excellent all-round month. October is quieter and comfortable for touring, walking and exploring inland villages. 

Towns in Moriani Plage & the East Coast

Moriani Plage and Corsica’s East Coast combine relaxed seaside resorts with traditional villages and historic towns. Moriani Plage is the main coastal hub, while nearby Cervione offers charming old streets, a historic cathedral and views towards the sea. Inland, the villages of Castagniccia sit among chestnut forests and rolling mountains, offering a glimpse of authentic rural Corsican life. Further north, Bastia provides a lively contrast with its atmospheric old port, historic centre and colourful waterfront. 

Bastia

Corsica’s second-largest city and the main gateway to the north-east, Bastia combines a colourful old port with atmospheric streets, historic buildings and lively squares. Explore the citadel and Terra Vecchia, browse local shops and markets, or enjoy a leisurely meal overlooking the harbour.

Discover Bastia

Moriani Plage

A relaxed seaside resort centred around a long, sandy beach, Moriani Plage is a popular base for exploring Corsica’s East Coast. Its beachfront restaurants, cafés and watersports create an easy-going holiday atmosphere, while the surrounding countryside is ideal for walking and cycling. 

Cervione

Perched on the foothills of Castagniccia, Cervione is a picturesque historic village overlooking the Mediterranean. Its narrow streets, traditional houses and impressive cathedral provide a taste of Corsican heritage, while the surrounding area is known for chestnut groves and local produce.

Aléria

Once an important Roman settlement, Aléria offers a fascinating insight into Corsica’s ancient past. Visit the archaeological site and museum before exploring the surrounding coastal landscape, lagoons and vineyards. Its location makes it a worthwhile stop when touring the eastern side of the island.

Piedicroce

Set among the chestnut-covered mountains of Castagniccia, Piedicroce is a small village surrounded by spectacular scenery. Its traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it an appealing stop for travellers exploring the mountainous interior away from the coast.

Beaches in Moriani Plage & the East Coast

Known for their long stretches of golden sand, clear turquoise waters and relaxed beach atmosphere. The coastline is generally gentler than the rugged west, with many spacious beaches backed by pine and eucalyptus trees. Moriani Plage is the main resort beach, offering easy access to cafés, restaurants and watersports, while nearby beaches such as Bravone, Aleria and Prunete provide quieter alternatives. The calm, shallow waters and wide sandy shores make this stretch of coast particularly appealing to families and those looking for relaxed days by the Mediterranean. 

Discover more beaches in Moriani Plage & the East Coast

Moriani Plage

The main beach at Moriani Plage is a long stretch of soft golden sand backed by a relaxed seaside resort. Its clear, generally calm waters make it ideal for swimming, while cafés, restaurants and watersports are close at hand. It’s an easy choice for a leisurely day by the sea without sacrificing convenience.

Plage de Prunete

Just south of Moriani, Plage de Prunete offers a broad sweep of golden sand framed by pine and eucalyptus trees. The beach has a more natural, laid-back feel than the main resort, with clear turquoise waters and plenty of space to unwind. It’s particularly appealing for those seeking a quieter alternative within easy reach of Moriani.

Plage de Bravone

Bravone is a beautiful, relatively undeveloped stretch of coastline characterised by fine sand, clear blue water and a peaceful atmosphere. The surrounding landscape is a mixture of low maquis and woodland, giving the beach a wonderfully natural setting. Its spacious shoreline makes it well suited to relaxing away from the busier resorts.

Plage d’Aléria

Close to the historic town of Aléria, this wide sandy beach combines easy-going seaside relaxation with an interesting cultural backdrop. The waters are generally calm and inviting, while the surrounding landscape of lagoons, woodland and countryside gives it a more rural character. It’s a good option for combining a beach day with exploring eastern Corsica’s ancient heritage.

Plage de Vanga di l’Oru

Located further north along the eastern coast, Vanga di l’Oru is a long, sandy beach with a peaceful atmosphere and attractive views across the Mediterranean. Less developed than Moriani Plage, it offers a sense of space and tranquillity, making it particularly appealing to travellers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy Corsica’s coastline at a slower pace.

Plage de la Roya

The main town beach in St Florent, Plage de la Roya, can be reached on foot from the port de plaisance or by car just west of the town centre. There are a multitude of water sports available including windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, jet skis and diving. The beach is extremely popular and does get busy in July and August.

Food & drink in Moriani Plage & the East Coast

Moriani Plage and Corsica’s east coast combine fresh Mediterranean flavours with the hearty traditions of the island’s interior. Expect freshly caught fish and seafood, locally produced charcuterie, creamy brocciu cheese and dishes flavoured with wild herbs and olive oil. Inland, the chestnut-rich region of Castagniccia is known for chestnut flour, traditional cakes and rustic specialities, while local wines and seasonal produce complete the experience. 

For food-loving travellers, a market visit, vineyard tasting or farm-to-table lunch provides an excellent way to explore the character of eastern Corsica, combining the island’s rich culinary traditions with its beautiful coastal and mountain landscapes. 

Cuisine in Cervione

Cervione is one of the region’s most interesting food destinations, sitting at the edge of Castagniccia and surrounded by chestnut groves. The area is particularly associated with chestnuts and chestnut flour, which are used in traditional breads, cakes and desserts. Visitors can also seek out local honey, cheeses, charcuterie and other artisanal specialities at village markets and producers.

Discover the region's seafood

For a taste of Corsica’s maritime cuisine, the coastal villages and resorts around Moriani Plage, Prunete and Aléria offer opportunities to enjoy grilled fish, shellfish and other seafood accompanied by local wines and seasonal vegetables. A long, leisurely lunch overlooking the Mediterranean is one of the simplest ways to experience the region.

Traditional mountain cuisine in Castagniccia

In the hills of Castagniccia, visiting a traditional village market or local producer provides an opportunity to discover some of the island’s most distinctive ingredients. Look out for brocciu, a fresh Corsican cheese, alongside figatellu, prisuttu, coppa and lonzu, often served as part of a traditional charcuterie platter. 

Wine in Moriani Plage & the East Coast

The eastern coast is also part of Corsica’s wine-growing landscape, with vineyards producing both red and white wines and the island’s distinctive rosé. Wine tasting at a local domaine is a worthwhile addition to a touring itinerary, particularly when combined with regional cheeses and charcuterie. 

Activities in Moriani Plage & the East Coast

Moriani Plage and Corsica’s East Coast offer plenty of opportunities to explore beyond the beach. The calm Mediterranean waters are well suited to swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing, while the surrounding countryside provides scenic routes for walking and cycling. Inland, the lush hills and chestnut forests of Castagniccia reveal a wilder side of Corsica, with mountain trails, traditional villages and spectacular views. Whether you prefer gentle coastal walks, active watersports or exploring the island’s rural interior, the region provides an appealing mix of adventure and relaxation. 

Discover activity holidays in Corsica

Sea kayaking & paddleboarding

The calm waters and sheltered stretches of Corsica’s eastern coastline provide excellent conditions for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Explore the shoreline at your own pace, discover quieter coves and enjoy a different perspective of the beaches and Mediterranean landscape. Equipment and guided excursions are available from several coastal resorts during the summer months.

Sailing & boat trips

With its long coastline and generally favourable summer conditions, the East Coast is well suited to sailing and boat excursions. Take to the water from coastal resorts such as Moriani Plage and explore secluded bays, beaches and stretches of coastline that are difficult to reach by road. Private or small-group trips can also provide a more relaxed way to discover the Mediterranean.

Snorkelling & diving

The clear waters around Corsica offer excellent opportunities for discovering the underwater world, with rocky seabeds, colourful marine life and sheltered coastal areas to explore. Snorkelling is easily combined with a day at the beach, while local diving centres offer excursions for both beginners and more experienced divers.

Hiking in Castaniccia

Head inland from the coast into the lush hills of Castagniccia, where chestnut forests, mountain streams and traditional villages provide a striking contrast to the beaches. A network of walking trails leads through the countryside, offering opportunities to experience Corsica’s rural landscapes and enjoy panoramic views across the surrounding hills and coastline.

Canyoning

For a more exhilarating experience, the rivers and mountain valleys inland offer opportunities for canyoning and other river-based adventures. Depending on the route, excursions can involve swimming through natural pools, scrambling over rocks and navigating waterfalls and gorges. Guided trips are the best way to experience Corsica's more challenging mountain terrain safely.

Cycling

The combination of quiet country roads, rolling foothills and more challenging mountain terrain makes the region an appealing destination for cyclists. Coastal routes offer relatively gentle riding, while heading inland towards Castagniccia provides more demanding climbs through forested landscapes and picturesque villages. Cycling is a rewarding way to experience the scenery at a slower pace.

Things to do in Moriani Plage & the East Coast

Offering a fascinating mix of historic towns, traditional villages and rural Corsican culture. Explore Bastia’s atmospheric old port and historic centre, discover ancient Roman heritage at Aléria and wander the hilltop villages of Castagniccia, known for their traditional churches and chestnut forests. Local markets, artisan producers and village festivals provide further opportunities to experience the island’s distinctive traditions and way of life. 

Discover more things to do in Corsica

Bastia’s Old Town & Citadel

Bastia is one of Corsica’s most atmospheric cities, with a historic centre of narrow streets, colourful buildings and lively squares. Explore the old port, known as the Vieux Port, before wandering through Terra Vecchia towards the imposing citadel. The city’s churches, cafés and waterfront restaurants offer a wonderful introduction to Corsican history and culture.

Ancient Aléria

Travel inland from the coast to Aléria, one of Corsica’s most important archaeological sites. The ancient settlement reveals the island’s long history, with Greek, Etruscan and Roman influences evident in the remains. Visit the archaeological site and museum to learn more about Corsica’s ancient civilisations before exploring the surrounding countryside and vineyards.

Castagniccia

The mountainous Castagniccia region is home to some of Corsica’s most traditional villages, scattered among dense chestnut forests. Villages such as Cervione and La Porta provide an opportunity to discover historic stone houses, ornate churches and quiet village squares, while scenic drives through the hills reveal a more rural and authentic side of the island.

Cervione

Cervione is particularly rewarding for travellers interested in Corsican traditions. The historic village occupies a hillside overlooking the eastern coast and is known for its cathedral, narrow streets and traditional architecture. The surrounding chestnut groves are closely linked to local cuisine and culture, making a visit to Cervione a chance to combine heritage with the region’s distinctive food traditions.

Visit local markets

Visiting a local market is one of the best ways to experience everyday Corsican life. Browse stalls selling regional cheeses, charcuterie, honey, chestnut products, olive oil and seasonal produce, while meeting local producers and artisans. Markets in the towns and villages of the East Coast offer an authentic taste of the island beyond its beaches and resorts.

Local festivals & traditions

Throughout the year, villages across eastern Corsica celebrate their heritage through religious festivals, traditional music, food events and village gatherings. Summer is particularly lively, with local fêtes bringing communities together in historic squares and villages. These celebrations offer visitors an opportunity to experience Corsican traditions and hospitality in an informal and authentic setting.

Why book with us

First-hand
knowledge

Every specialist has travelled extensively to the destinations they sell.

Local reps on
the ground

A friendly face waiting to welcome you and assist throughout your stay.

100%
Protected

Your money and holiday are fully secured by ATOL and ABTA bonding.

Speak to us in 15 seconds

No endless queues, just real travel experts ready to help straight away.

Built around
you

Itineraries completely customised to your exact pace and preferences.

Genuine
passion

Independent advice driven by love for creating extraordinary trips.

  • Contact Details

We are here to help

Need help planning your perfect holiday? With just a simple phone call, you will be connected to someone who knows Corsica like the back of their hand. Speak to us today for an unforgettable holiday.

New bookings

Sales office opening hours

Monday to Friday: 9am to 7pm

Saturday: 9am to 5pm

Sunday: 10am to 4pm

Existing bookings

Aftersales opening hours

Monday to Thursday: 9am to 5.30pm

Friday: 9am to 5pm

Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Get in touch with our experts