Zonza, Quenza, Levie
Most villages have managed to preserve their rich heritage, and along the shaded mountain roads, you will encounter traditional sheepfolds, olive oil mills, beautiful fountains, Genoese bridges, Romanesque churches, old washhouses, bread ovens, chapels, and convents.
Zonza
In the heart of Corsica's natural park, the well-preserved village of Zonza has become a must-visit destination for nature lovers over the years.
This picturesque mountain village, nestled in the heart of Alta Rocca, is home to fewer than 3,000 inhabitants in winter. Despite the summer crowds, it has retained its peaceful charm, making it a delightful place to explore on foot.
Visitors can discover the Santa Maria Assunta Church, a neo-Gothic structure built in the 19th century, as well as the Museum of the Resistance, which offers insight into the period between 1936 and 1943, when Italy laid claim to Corsica. A small museum with a big history.
Quenza
At the foot of the Cuscionu plateau, this charming little village offers its peaceful way of life to visitors who take the time to stop by.
Beyond its fortified houses, true heritage gems, you will discover the Saint George Church, built in the 16th century, with its sacred art treasures, as well as the Santa Maria Romanesque chapel.
At the village entrance, a Tuscan-style château awaits, surrounded by a park dedicated to contemporary art.
Levie
Formerly the capital of Alta Rocca, this is a must-visit stop with its prehistoric sites of Capula and Cucuruzzu, best explored on a hike through a magnificent forest of centuries-old chestnut trees. The audio guide, available at the start of the trail, blends Corsican songs with insightful commentary, adding a magical touch to the experience.
Once immersed in this prehistoric setting, a visit to the Museum of History and Archaeology is essential to explore the remnants of civilizations that have thrived in this region for over 10,000 years. The museum houses an impressive collection of original artifacts.
For knife-making enthusiasts, the Lotus workshop, located in the heart of the village in an old mill, offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditions of artistic blacksmithing.
