Shopping ideas on the Corsican coast

The good-luck bracelets by « Zia Antonia » (External link) in Bastia (External link) are the perfect gift for friends or a treat for yourself, just because you are worth it. Dreamed up and created in Corsica, they have their origins in the most ancient local beliefs and traditions. They bring good luck and, what is more, they look just great on skin that has been bronzed by the Bastia sun!!!

A good day always starts with a good coffee, even when you are on holiday! The « Le bon café » in l’Ile-Rousse (External link) has been roasting coffee beans since 1928. First of all, the smell of the roasting beans entices you in and then the half open sacks offer up a feast for your eyes. In an old style ambiance and with an antique facade, it offers a wide range of different flavours to satisfy all discerning coffee lovers.

Do you feel like taking home a souvenir that is authentic, but not tacky? Head over to « Empires » (External link) in Ajaccio (External link) , a brand that is 100 % local and which revisits the style of the empire through its range of fashion accessories and decorative items. The collections on sale at this concept store bring together a bit of history with a rock and roll vibe, and a touch of girliness. It is sure to drive you wild!

In the Golfe du Valinco, you have to make a stop at the (External link) « legnu nustrale » (External link) artisan workshop in Fozzano. Jeff keeps alive the family traditions and invites you to discover his original creations carved from the wood of the maquis scrub: briar pipes, pens, perfume atomisers as well as jewellery made of olivewood, box wood or juniper.

In order to keep a connection with Corsica all year round you must remember to take with you the aromas of the maquis scrub, and plant some myrtle, mastic or helichrysum on your patio at home. Visit the Porto-Vecchio (External link) nursery « Les Aromatiques de l’Ile de Beauté » (External link) and join horticulturalist Stéphane Rogliano, a specialist grower of the wild and aromatic plants of Corsica.

Bastia