Pietracorbara, Corsica, sits on the east coast of Cap Corse, about 12 miles (20 km) north of Bastia. With its golden sandy beach and Monte Stello rising in the background, it is one of the prettiest and quietest spots on the “index finger of Corsica”, and far more relaxed than the better-known destinations farther south.
We visited Pietracorbara in September 2026 and stayed at Camping La Pietra on the edge of the village. From there we walked to the beach and also set out for a hike into the hinterland. Here we share our most important tips for the beach, hiking and camping in Pietracorbara. For more, check out our complete Cap Corse route.
Last updated: September 2026.
Facts about Pietracorbara
Best time to visit: May to September
Location: Cap Corse, east coast, about 12 mi (20 km) from Bastia
Beach: about 0.3 mi (450 m) of sand, family-friendly
More info: Corsica Itinerary: 2-Week Road Trip
Highlights
Sandy beach with shallow water
Genoese Tower Tour de l’Osse
Hike up Monte Stello
Camping La Pietra near the sea
In a rush? Here is our hotel tip:
An alternative to the campground, right in Pietracorbara
Pietracorbara Beach
With its fine, golden sand and shallow, clear water, Pietracorbara Beach is one of the prettiest beaches on the east coast of Cap Corse. The bay is about 0.3 miles (450 m) long and has good parking right along the road, plus several beach restaurants where you can stop for a bite after your swim.
Even in midsummer it is much quieter here than at the better-known beaches around Calvi or Ajaccio, which makes it especially popular with families with small children. We were there ourselves and thought it was really beautiful, and from the beach you also get a great view of the mountains in the background.
Tip: The beach is also pleasant outside peak season in spring and fall, when you often have it almost to yourself.
Genoese Tower Tour de l’Osse
Between the Marine de Pietracorbara and the neighboring village of Porticciolo, right above the coastal road, stands the Genoese Tower Tour de l’Osse, built in 1599 to protect against pirate raids. It was restored between 1978 and 1980, is well preserved today and is one of the most popular photo spots in the area.
The tower is easy to see from the road and only a few minutes’ walk away.
Hike Up Monte Stello
If you’re looking for something more challenging, start in Pozzo, a small village above Pietracorbara, for the hike up Monte Stello. At 1,307 m (4,288 ft), it is the second-highest peak on Cap Corse after Cima di e Follicie and offers wide views from the summit over the entire peninsula all the way to the mainland. Plan on about 6 hours for the loop, with around 1,110 m (3,640 ft) of elevation gain and loss.
There is hardly any shade on the trail, so the hike is best in spring or fall. In summer, start very early so you reach the summit by around 10 a.m. We did not hike this route ourselves; our hike was the Sentier de l’Eau Vive further down. You can find more details on the trail here on AllTrails.
Tip: Bring plenty of water for the Monte Stello hike, as there is nowhere to stop for refreshments along the way.
Sentier de l’Eau Vive Hiking Trail
This trail starts in a small village in the hinterland called Orneto. You can park for free at the church (Google Maps) and then walk through the village and on through a forest.
In places the hike feels like an abandoned corner of the island and is anything but touristy, but it makes a welcome change from the beach routine in Corsica. You can see the route on Komoot (start at point 5).
Camping La Pietra in Pietracorbara, Corsica
During our stay we camped at Camping La Pietra, the largest and best-equipped campground on the east coast of Cap Corse, and we loved it. The 4-star campground is only about 600 m (2,000 ft) from the beach and has more than 120 marked pitches, separated by hedges and mostly shaded thanks to the many different tree species. There is also a large meadow without marked pitches where you can park wherever you like.
The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, and from the campground your gaze keeps drifting to the mountains in the background. Facilities include a large pool with a very gradual, shallow entry that makes it perfect for small children to play in, plus a small supermarket and a restaurant where we ate really well, as well as an entertainment program in peak season.
Handy: At the reception desk you can order fresh baguette, bread and croissants the day before for the next morning. The campground is open from March to November, and in peak season it’s worth reserving early, since it books up quickly in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pietracorbara
How long is Pietracorbara Beach?
The sandy beach is about 0.3 miles (450 m) long, has shallow water and is considered especially family-friendly.
Where does the Monte Stello hike start?
The trailhead is in the small village of Pozzo above Pietracorbara, and the loop takes about 6 hours.
When was the Genoese Tower Tour de l’Osse built?
The tower was built in 1599 and restored between 1978 and 1980. Today it is one of the most popular photo spots in the area.
How far is Camping La Pietra from the beach?
Camping La Pietra is about 600 m (2,000 ft) from Pietracorbara Beach, and a footpath leads to the water. You only have to cross the main road.
When is the best time to visit Pietracorbara, Corsica?
May to September for the beach and swimming. For the Monte Stello hike, spring and fall are better because of the heat and lack of shade.