We left Propriano at 8 am and arrived in Calvi at 12 noon.On the way Paul spots lots of feeding fish on the surface, so we have a troll along the way, with no luck. The wind is blowing 25-30 knots and we have to berth stern to, on the Calvi dock. However, there is plenty of room although many boats are here.
The approach to Calvi features a large 15 th century Genoese citadel. This Citadel has seen many major assaults during the centuries, fending off everyone from Franco- Turkish raiders to an Anglo-Corsican army. The notable siege was 1794. The revolutionary forces supported by the British. In the battle Captain Horatio Nelsen lost his right eye.
It is suggested not to restrict yourself to the Corsican coast, but venture inland to 'Balag'.
Calvi is an attractive harbour-side town. Small retail streets leading up to the fortress. After exploring the small town, we visit the tourist office to find about hiring a car to visit inland and play golf.
Tuesday. After a swim and breakfast, we hire a small car and head off to play on a nine hole course which we believed was in the town of 'Spelonato', supposedly 25 Kms away. Our trip takes us into the mountains with very narrow and winding roads. We had our information completely wrong, as Splelonato is in fact an ancient hill top town.The countryside we have driven through is spectacular. Rugged mountain ranges, fertile valley's, with several beautiful old towns. It was worth the trip.
After almost 2 hours of travel, we eventually find the hidden golf course, signage was virtually non existent. The course looks like a farmers paddock. It is pretty rough and ready, but we enjoy walking in the very charming countryside and enjoying the fresh air.
Back on board that evening it starts raining heavily. For the first time on the trip we have to bring out the umbrellas to walk to the restaurant for dinner. The weather is definitely changing. Although we were going to make another stop in a beautiful bay in the north end of Corsica, Paul has decided to head for Nice, as the weather is getting worse. This will be a 10 hour trip. So, we leave Corsica early the next day and head for Nice, France.
JB and Mick