Ile Rousse – Isula Rossa

Ile Rousse was founded in 1758 by the freedom fighter Pasquale Paoli. The town served as rival port to Genoa's bastions Algajola and Calvi.

Place Pascal Paoli

With 2500 citizens, Ile Rousse is after Calvi the next important economic and tourism center of the Balagne. The center of the town is the Place Pascal Paoli. This is a popular place to meet in cafés and bars or play boule. Next to the square is the covered market. In the morning, a regular market takes place among its enormous pillars. You will find fresh fruit and vegetables and plenty of Corsican specialties (sausages, cheese, olive oil, chestnut products) on offer. Numerous restaurants and souvenir shops can be found in the narrow alleys next to the market.

From the Port to Ile de la Pietra

The port of Ile Rousse is formed by a bridge which connects the small island Ile de la Pietra with the mainland. Ferries from France and Italy arrive here during the peak season. There is a small lighthouse and a tower built by Genoa on the island. It becomes very obvious here, that this place was named after the red granite. Even though the small lighthouse is not a particularly imposing building, a walk up to it is still worthwhile due to the fantastic view over the adjoining coast and the charming surrounding area.

A Walk from Ile Rousse to Bodri

There is a nice walkway along the coast from Ile Rousse to the campground il Bodri. The walk starts at the station and follows the tracks at first. Later it crosses low macchia and coastal rocks. You can find a detailed description under this link: Walk from Ile Rousse to Bodri.