Porto-Vecchio, located on the southeast coast of Corsica, is a dynamic city that blends heritage, nature, and modernity. An ancient Genoese town founded in the 16th century, it earned the nickname "City of Salt" due to the salt marshes that long shaped its economic activity. Today, it is most known for its tourist appeal, with a population that grows from 12,000 inhabitants to tens of thousands during the high season.

Perched on a rocky promontory, the old town overlooks the gulf and retains the vestiges of its past, including its ramparts and lively cobblestone streets. The Place de la République, the heart of the city, is lined with cafés and restaurants where locals and visitors gather in a convivial atmosphere. Further down, the Porto-Vecchio port, blending leisure and commerce, is a bustling hub where sailboats, yachts, and ferries from the mainland dock.

However, it is the coastline for which Porto-Vecchio is best known. Its beaches, some of the most beautiful in Corsica, attract bathers and sunbathers. Palombaggia, with its white sand and umbrella pines, offers a paradisiacal setting, as does Santa Giulia, famous for its lagoon with crystal-clear waters, and Rondinara, known for its perfectly rounded bay. These beaches, easily accessible from the town, make Porto-Vecchio a popular seaside destination.

The hinterland reveals another face of the region, more rugged and mountainous. The village of L'Ospedale, located at nearly 900 meters above sea level, overlooks the region and offers breathtaking views of the gulf. Its artificial lake, surrounded by pine forests, is a refreshing stop, ideal for hiking. Further afield, the Bavella Needles, with their spectacular rock formations, are a prime destination for nature lovers and trekkers. The Piscia di Gallu waterfall, accessible after a beautiful hike, is one of the natural gems of southern Corsica.

Porto-Vecchio is also an emerging economic hub. Its commercial port ensures the region's supply, while tourism, the main driver of the local economy, sustains numerous shops, hotels, and restaurants. The nightlife is lively, especially in the summer, with trendy establishments attracting a diverse clientele.

A city at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, Porto-Vecchio is as appealing for its heritage as for its exceptional natural setting. Between sea and mountains, it perfectly embodies the diversity and beauty of southern Corsica, making it an essential destination on the island.