Lile Rousse

L'Île-Rousse (Red Island) is a commune in the Haute-Corse department of France on the island of Corsica in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located on the north west coast of the island.

During the high season, there is a tourist train which runs from L'Île Rousse along the coast to Calvi. Visitors should check the timetable as the trains do not run many times a day.

In the old town, stroll through streets lined with shops and cafes or relax in the main square, Place Paoli, shaded by old trees.

There are two churches in the centre of town - the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the neoclassical church Notre-Dame de la Miséricorde.

The covered market, built in the style of an ancient temple on large columns, was built in the middle of the 19th century.

The best view across L'Île Rousse is found by heading north a little way to the Ile de la Pietra, and on to the lighthouse. The setting of the town against the red granite is best appreciated at sunset. A 16th century Genoese watch tower can also be found here.

Other places of interest include the old stone jetty, the War Memorial statue and the ruins of the fortresses of L'Île Rousse.

Parc de Saleccia, 3km north of L'Île Rousse is a pleasant 7 hectare botanical garden. Olive trees are a speciality here. It is open April-October (varying times) and is a nice place to relax and stroll around.

Monticello and Santa-Reparata-di-Balagna are two pretty villages set in the hills behind the town and popular trips from L'Île Rousse.

Activities here include sailing, diving, horse riding and tennis as well as exploring the area on foot.

Follow the "Route des Artisans" and meet the artisan communities in their workshops which include glass-blowers, potters and ceramists.

L'Île Rousse has a fine, white sand beach to the south at Plage de Rindara, with small rocky islands to the north. Other options in the area include Lozari sand beach, surrounded by lush greenery and high mountains and the wild and beautiful Ostriconi beach with its white fine sand, dunes, turquoise waters and untouched beauty.

Good local products to purchase include fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, meats, cheese, wine and olive oil.

Meat dishes may be served with pasta or polenta and popular options include 'civet de sanglier' (wild boar casserole), 'veau aux olives' (veal with olives) and 'agneau Corse' (Corsican lamb). There is also a good range of fresh fish and seafood such as oysters, red mullet (rouget), sea bream (loup de mer) and crayfish (langoustine).

Depending on the size of your cruise ship, you may either be docked or anchored and tendered ashore.