Porto: Golf, Coast and Nature

Porto lies at the end of the Gulf of Porto, which is listed as a World Heritage Site. There are several themes to choose from for your stay: boat trips to natural and coastal destinations, marine life at the aquarium, a historic fortification and the sixth stage of the GT20. If you are looking for hotels in Porto, you can start by considering which of these themes you would like your stay to focus on. Would you rather spend your time on the water, or are you more interested in coastal scenery and history? This question gives your planning a practical starting point.

Boat Trips and Boating Options

Boat trips to the Scandola Nature Reserve and the village of Girolata depart from Porto several times a day. Other trips go to the Calanques de Piana and the caves of Capo Rosso. Boat trip availability may vary by season, so check departures for your travel dates. There are also moorings for boats at the harbour.

If you are planning a day trip with a rental boat, Porto Bateau Location offers rigid inflatable boats and boats that can be hired with or without a licence. Engine power ranges from 6 to 135 hp. Destinations listed for day trips include the Gulf of Porto, Girolata and the Scandola Nature Reserve. This service may also be seasonal, so check availability in advance. The harbour has a slipway, fresh water, 220-watt electricity, and berths on a fixed pontoon and a mooring line. Confirm operating details before you arrive.

Club de PLONGEE PORTO offers introductory dives. As this service is seasonal, you should confirm availability for your travel dates. This gives you a choice of different ways to focus a stay on the sea: guided boat trips, a rental boat or an introductory dive.

History and Marine Life

The Tour de Porto was built in the 16th century and completely restored in the 1990s. Inside, a permanent exhibition explores the fortifications along Corsica’s coast. The tower is accessible on two levels; a staircase cut into the rock leads inside. Take seasonal opening hours into account when planning your visit.

The Aquarium de la Poudrière showcases Corsican marine fauna and flora, with a particular focus on the Scandola Nature Reserve. It features more than 150 species, all caught in the Gulf of Porto. A visit offers a different perspective on marine life from the boat trips: instead of exploring destinations along the coast, you can learn about the animal and plant life of the Corsican sea and its special connection to the Scandola Nature Reserve.

Pebble Beach and the GT20 Stage

Porto Beach is lined with a eucalyptus forest and made up of multicoloured pebbles. It is accessible to people with reduced mobility; check the access information again before travelling. The beach and the tree-lined stretch of shore offer another aspect of the coastal landscape, distinct from the boating options.

The sixth stage of the GT20 runs from Galeria to Portu (Porto). It is about 51 kilometres long, with 722 metres of elevation gain. The stage ends with a view of the Gulf of Porto; along the way, the route passes through landscapes overlooking the Scandola Nature Reserve. This makes the route distinct from the boat trips: the boating options focus on destinations such as Girolata and the Calanques de Piana, while the GT20 stage offers views of Scandola and the gulf. If you are choosing between these options, the listed destinations, approximate distance and elevation gain can help you make a more informed decision.

For the wider travel overview: Ota.