Bastia

Monday – Arrival in Bastia & First Island Vibes Link to heading

We arrive in Bastia and are immediately thrown into a little adventure: a short, narrow, steep, and winding drive to our Airbnb. But the reward is worth it – an incredible view framed by a sunset sky painted in shades of red, yellow, and orange. It’s like stepping straight into a postcard.

After a few minutes of silent awe (and a few obligatory photos, of course), our stomachs remind us it’s dinner time. We toss some fresh ravioli into the pot and slice up one of the massive peppers we scored in Livorno. A simple but perfect first meal on the island – a little celebration of arrival.

Tuesday – Road Trip with Ocean Views & Village Charm Link to heading

We could sleep in today – but of course we don’t. By 9am we’re already sitting on the terrace with coffee and croissants, soaking up the sun. Things could definitely be worse.

Then we hit the road: cruising along the legendary D80 from Bastia toward Macinaggio. Curves, cliffs, coastline – it’s basically one long scenic route. We stop often to take in the views or grab a quick coffee in Marine de Pietracorbara. Then it’s back on the road – more curves, more wow.

We aim for a restaurant in Macinaggio that caught our eye on Google Maps – but it’s closed. Plan B: park the car and stroll along the promenade. And just like that – we find an open spot! Noë goes for Cannelloni Bocciu, I opt for the catch-of-the-day fish filet. Très bien!

Energized, we continue toward Centuri. First, a quick detour up to Moulin Mattei – an old windmill with a view that literally takes your breath away. Then we roll down into the little fishing village. Not much going on here – in fact, pretty much the opposite. No coffee to be found. But the beach makes up for it: crystal-clear water, sunshine, and peace.

On the way back to Bastia, we make plenty of little stops for photos and scenic views before grabbing fresh bread and dessert from a boulangerie just outside the city.

Back at the Airbnb, it’s time to unwind and cuddle. Then comes apéro followed by a homemade broccoli curry. We end the night with some blog writing, more cuddles, and – of course – that well-earned dessert. Bon appétit et bonne nuit!

Wednesday – Diving into Chilly Bliss Link to heading

Another relaxed morning – this time with an alarm, but for a good reason. After a solid breakfast, it’s off to the harbor, because after over a year, it’s finally time: back into the deep blue! I’ve booked a dive with the Marine Diving Center.

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Once I arrive, I get suited up and briefed on the dive site. Then we’re off: a short ride over some choppy waves (okay, about five minutes), and then it’s overboard and slowly descending into the depths. At first I fumble with my buoyancy, but after a few minutes everything starts to feel familiar again. We head toward La Luise, the remains of an 18th-century shipwreck still visible on the seafloor. Life is buzzing down here – fish, nudibranchs, starfish, anemones – the full cast. Then we switch to a second spot, where the seagrass disappears and massive underwater boulders rise up just 5–8 meters below the surface. They’re teeming with life. I’m so amazed I almost forget how cold the water is.

Back at the dive center, a hot shower warms both body and soul. Time to find Noë – and some food. Right by the harbor, we treat ourselves to delicious burrata on toast. Mhmmm.

With full bellies, we stroll back to the car and crash into a (not-so-short) siesta at the Airbnb. The rest of the day is pure relaxation: reading, knitting, soaking in the view. Just being.