L'Île-Rousse, Coastal commune in Haute-Corse, France.
L'Île-Rousse is a port town on the northwestern coast of Corsica with three sandy beaches and a harbor surrounded by red porphyry islands. The settlement spreads along the shoreline, combining beach and port areas that define its character.
The town was founded in 1758 by Pascal Paoli as a trading port to create an alternative to Genoese-controlled harbors in the region. This establishment was part of his effort to make Corsican commerce more independent.
The main square with its century-old plane trees serves as a gathering place where locals play petanque and meet for community life. The space reflects how the town maintains its social bonds through everyday activities and shared traditions.
The town is reachable by regular ferries from mainland France or through the nearby Calvi-Sainte Catherine Airport, about half an hour away by road. Arriving by ferry offers views of the coastline, while the airport provides another convenient access point.
A footpath to the La Pietra lighthouse crosses Napoleon Beach and climbs to a summit overlooking the entire Balagne coastline. This route connects beach access with panoramic views in a single walk.
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