Lecci
Lecci — a hidden gem between the Aiguilles de Bavella and pristine beaches located at the south-east part of Corsica, to the north from Porto-Vecchio. Located in the gulf of Porto-Vecchio, the small village of Lecci is a renowned seaside resort, whose beaches are said to be the most beautiful in the gulf, with the peninsula of Cala Rossa, Benedettu and the coves of San Ciprianu and the Golfo di Sogno. Its exceptional location offers holidaymakers landscapes of great beauty and the quality of life of the small town makes it one of the most popular destinations in Corsica, a stone’s throw from the town of Porto-Vecchio.
Get in
There is just 1 bus, twice a day, coming via Lecci: A Berlina Route C (yellow timetable below). Bus goes from Porto-Vecchio and stops at tourist center at Lecci (8:43, 17:33). One-way ticket costs 2 € (as of 2024), free under 18 yeards old.
What to See in Lecci
Tucked away in the breathtaking landscapes of the Aiguilles de Bavella, Lecci boasts 10 kilometres of coastline, with 5 kilometres of stunning beaches. This unspoilt village in southern Corsica offers an idyllic retreat just 30 minutes from Figari airport. Its various hamlets combine peaceful charm with lively local shops, creating the perfect balance between relaxation and activity.
10 kilometers of fine sand to satisfy every desire, with pine forests and scrubland along the beaches of Lecci, which contribute to the beauty of the panorama, along with the red rocks that are found everywhere, to be admired especially at sunset. The beach of Saint-Cyprien is a marvel, with its turquoise waters and its sugar loaf in the middle of the shallow bay will make everyone happy. The nearby sites offer a wide choice of sports activities. Lovers of local traditions will set off to discover the Lecci region, and in particular its DOC vines, and the more curious will be able to visit the historical sites and Corsican traditions, following in the footsteps of the ancient pilgrims who went there to honour Saint Teresa.
To the north are the beaches of Santa Lucia di Porto Vecchio (Ste Lucie) with the beautiful beach of Fautéa and the wild beach of Ovu Santu. A stone’s throw from St Cyprien, Capicciola beach is little known and very pleasant in the height of summer.
Lecci beaches
Lecci’s beaches offer a dazzling mix of white sand, turquoise waters, and dramatic red rocks. One of the highlights is Saint-Cyprien, a picturesque gulf with a beach bordered by the Etang d’Arasu. A Genoese tower overlooks the area, adding to its historic allure. The beach’s shallow waters make it ideal for children, and the area buzzes with water sports, from water-skiing to jet-skiing.
Another treasure is the Cala Rossa Bay, a serene escape where the green and blue hues of the sea blend with the backdrop of the Aiguilles de Bavella. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy fresh prawns grilled over wood fires, all while soaking in the calming sounds of the sea.
For a more peaceful retreat, U Benedettu Bay, located in the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio, offers a tranquil haven. Nestled at the end of a peninsula and protected by ancient Roman ruins, this small, quiet beach provides a stunning view of Porto-Vecchio in the distance.
Saint Cyprien Beach
Saint Cyprien Beach, located in the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio (also known as San Ciprianu Beach), is one of the most stunning beaches in southern Corsica. Situated in the municipality of Lecci, not far from the exclusive Cala Rossa estate, this expansive sandy beach stretches for several kilometres within a sheltered bay, offering gently sloping waters perfect for swimming.
The beach is divided into two distinct areas. The southern part is more developed, featuring various activities, private beach clubs, and restaurants. It’s a popular spot, especially in the summer, with lifeguards on duty and a lively atmosphere.
In contrast, the northern area, which borders the ponds of Arasu, remains wild and untouched, with no tourist amenities or supervision, making it perfect for those seeking a more natural experience.
To reach the beach from Porto-Vecchio (approximately 11 km away), take the N198 and then the N468 towards Saint-Cyprien. Once there, follow signs to the beach car park (free), which marks the division between the two areas. For access to the northern, wilder section near the Arasu pond, take the D468 towards Cirindinu, turn right after 700 meters, and follow signs for Aroso La Mer and the tip of Arasu.
Tour Beach
Tour Beach is a charming small sandy beach nestled among a few shrubs, offering some shade. It lies to the south of St Cyprien Bay, beyond the mouth of the pond. Though the beach is narrow, it is typically less crowded, providing a more secluded spot compared to the main beach at St Cyprien.
To reach this beach, park on the southern side of Saint-Cyprien Beach and walk southward past the private beach areas. You’ll need to cross the pond’s mouth (expect to get wet) and navigate a rocky path before arriving at the more tranquil shoreline.
Saint-Cyprien Cove
Saint-Cyprien Cove is situated to the south of the main beach in San Ciprianu Bay, near the entrance to the Cala Rossa estate. This small, sandy cove is one of the most secluded spots in this part of Corsica. While difficult to access on foot, it’s easily reached by sea kayak or boat. The cove stretches about 150 meters and boasts ultra-fine sand. Due to its remote location, it’s rarely crowded, especially for those arriving by sea.
To access the cove on foot, start at the end of Saint-Cyprien Beach. The first challenge is crossing the pond’s mouth, which requires wading in knee-deep water. After that, climb over some rocks (relatively easy) to reach the trail. You’ll cross another beach before taking a footpath to the cove, which takes around 30 minutes in total.
Beaches around Lecci:
Wine to Taste
Lecci, meaning “holm oak,” shares a history with its neighbour, Porto-Vecchio, in abandoning its once-thriving cork oak industry. But Lecci’s vineyards have flourished, producing exceptional wines from unique local varieties like niellucciu, sciaccarellu, and vermentinu, as well as grenache. Certified by the Corsica Porto-Vecchio PDO, these red, rosé, and white wines offer a true taste of Corsican authenticity and quality.
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