Saleccia & Lodo beaches were voted the number 1 'Secret Beach in Europe' by SkyScanners. Saleccia can only be reached by boat or a 15km walk, hence why it is seldom busy. Lodo, a little further east is a smaller version of the same – fine, golden sand with a backdrop of the Corsican maquis.
The Désert des Agriates on the north west coast of Corsica has many stunning beaches but Plage de Saleccia 10km west of St. Florent has a kilometre of white sand and turquoise sea unaccessible by road and totally undeveloped "the only sounds are the chirring of cicadas in the groves of Corsican pine and the contented lowing of a handful of chestnut-coloured cattle that occasionally visit the beach's eastern end. Despite the difficulty of access, it gets busy in August but the beach is so long you can always find a peaceful spot. There is a ferry service to Plage du Lodu and from here you can continue to Plage de Saleccia a few kilometres west or hike along the coastal footpath (approx. one hour each way)." Neil Wilson for the Telegraph 'Best beaches on Corsica, France: Plage de Saleccia, near St-Florent'.
To visit these beaches, we would recommend staying at Hotel La Roya situated on the beach just 2km from the picturesque town and port of St Florent in the north east of Corsica. Family owned and run, the guest rooms have lovely views of the countryside or bay with the benefit of a Michelin star restaurant, immaculate grounds with pool and direct access to the beach. Prices with Just Corsica 01202 703500 www.justcorsica.co.uk from £559pp for 7 nights b&b (excluding flights and car hire).