Visit Nebbio in Corsica

Nebbio is the name given to the region inland from Saint-Florent, to the east of the Balagne region of Corsica and to the west of Cap Corse. The central part of the region around the 'Conca d'Oro' is a low-lying plain, while to the east rise the high mountains including Mont Stellu and Mont Astu.

The region is characterised by its attractive villages and vineyards, its olive trees and its rolling pastures, and also by its (so far) lack of attention to tourism.

Some of the most highly regarded wine in Corsica is produced in the region, and several of the local caves will tempt you with their wine-tasting.

The main towns in the region are at Murato and Oletta, with a sprinkling of other attractive villages set in the surrounding countryside.

One particular highlight of a tour around the Nebbio is the roman-style church of St Michele de Murato - a small church with a tall square tower, it has been built in different colour stone to create an extraordinary patterned design - truly not like any church I've seen before (although apparently a similar style can be seen in Sardinia). The church is alos ornately decorated with carvings and statues.  The location of the church is also notable with views across the surrounding mountains, and out to sea beyond Saint-Florent.

The three menhirs now lined along the wall at Pieve are also interesting to see - carved 3000 years ago into human representations, they now stand imposingly in an attractive setting (they were found in the surrounding mountains and are known as the Murtola statue (found in the Aliso Valley; the Murellu statue (found on Mont Revincu) and the Buccentone statue.

Other notable highlights of a visit include the views from the Col de Saint Stefano out across the countryside and beyond to the Mediterranean, and the descent of the impressive gorge 'the Defile de Lancone'.

Nonza, the Nebbio, Corsica (photo copyright)