The Gulf of Porto is one of the loveliest corners of Corsica, and it's also a place where you can enjoy the sea without a swimsuit — as long as you know where to go. Here's what's worth knowing before you set off.
Naturism in Corsica: what you need to know
In France, naturism is only permitted in places set aside for it or away from public view. Around Porto, there is no municipal beach officially declared naturist outside the private resorts. That said, the practice is tolerated on a few secluded beaches, provided you stay discreet and respect other bathers.
A few common-sense rules:
- Choose the right beaches. Stick to the beaches where naturism is known and practised. Avoid undressing on a regular family beach, especially in the height of summer.
- Settle off to one side. On mixed beaches (textile and naturist), set yourself up in the parts furthest from the access points. Naturists generally gather at the far ends or in the more secluded coves.
- Keep something to cover up with. On a beach that isn't explicitly naturist, keep a sarong or a towel within reach, in case it gets busy.
- Respect the place and the people. Be discreet with other beachgoers, clothed or not, and leave no litter behind. Most of these beaches are out in nature, so it's worth keeping them clean.
- Bring what you need. These beaches are often isolated and have no facilities: remember water, sun cream, a hat, and a parasol if you can. The Corsican sun is fierce in summer.
Bussaglia beach
This is the only beach near Porto that's genuinely known for naturism. But there's a subtlety to it.
The beach is large, and about a fifth of it is hidden behind a big rock, over on the left. The restaurant Les Galets has opened at the left-hand end of the beach, and it's just past the restaurant that the rocks begin. You can already find shelter from the sun there. But to reach the area where swimsuits are no longer the norm, you need to carry on a little further, behind a huge rock.
On this little beach — what the regulars call the nudies' beach — you can swim and sunbathe with no swimsuit lines. And just like on the main stretch of beach, you'll find shade in the shelter of the rocks when the sun gets too strong.
The beach has no particular official authorisation, but the spot is known to everyone in the area.
See Bussaglia on Google MapsAlong the Porto
One last tip — less a beach than a local secret. The Porto, the river that runs through the village, stretches for several kilometres. It's so vast that it's very easy to find a quiet spot off on your own.
The trick: set off from an already quiet crossing point, over by the campsite and the old footbridge, then head upstream. People naturally wander down the river as they stroll — so by going up it, you'll always be more at peace.
Your base camp in the Gulf of Porto
Hôtel Le Vaïta welcomes you in the heart of the Gulf of Porto, just minutes from the area's beaches and coves. 26 air-conditioned rooms, best rate guaranteed when booking direct.