Villanova overlooks the Gulf of Lava and is defined by its stone houses. Together with the paths to the coast and the prehistoric Castellu della Moneta, this makes for a destination where village character, landscape and history each offer something different. Explore the village and its surroundings on foot, or take the steep path to a Bronze Age site.
Stone houses and distinctive village features
The stone houses shape Villanova’s appearance. Another striking feature is the church with its separate bell tower: the tower stands apart from the church building, making it a distinct architectural landmark. If you are interested in the village’s built environment, these are specific features to look out for on a walk through Villanova.
The view is also part of the village’s character: Villanova overlooks the Gulf of Lava. This draws the eye beyond the village towards the coast. Part of the Capo di Feno Natura 2000 site, a Special Area of Conservation identified by code FR 9402012, is also within the municipal area. The distinction matters: the site extends across part of the municipality, not the entire municipal area.
Walking routes with different destinations
Several paths lead from Villanova towards the coast and are suitable for walks. One specific option is the 6.0-kilometre hike from Villanova to Capo di Feno beach. Check trail conditions locally before setting out. The Sentier de Bomba offers a different kind of route: it is a circular walk that reaches the Villanova plain. The beach route and the circular walk thus differ both in their destination and in their course.
When choosing between these options, the stated route details are more useful than a general assessment of the hikes. The route to the beach has a specified length; the Sentier de Bomba is described as a circular walk that reaches the plain. Other walking paths also lead to the coast. You can therefore choose a route based on your desired destination without combining them into a single route.
Castellu della Moneta and Villanova’s history
A steep, well-marked path through dense maquis scrub leads to Castellu della Moneta. At the summit, the path reaches a circular prehistoric castellu dating to the Bronze Age. The ascent and the structure go together: the path through the maquis is itself part of the approach to a clearly identified historical destination. Take the steepness into account when planning your visit.
Another chapter in the village’s history dates to the Resistance. At that time, the submarine Casabianca brought weapons ashore in Villanova. The castellu and this episode from the Resistance are distinct historical reference points: one is a prehistoric structure at the summit, the other an action in the village during the Resistance.
Art, a July event and Corsican cuisine
Artists in Villanova welcome visitors by appointment. If you are planning a visit, arrange a time in advance. Another cultural event is I Stanilali di Villanova, which takes place in July. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the specific dates for your chosen period.
For a meal, there is the village restaurant Chez Marc. It serves authentic, home-style Corsican cuisine and accepts reservations. Arrange your reservation before your trip so you can plan your visit accordingly.
Getting around and planning
Villanova has an on-demand transport service. Book your ride by 4 p.m. on the day before travel at the latest, either through the Muvistrada app or by calling the Muvitarra office. As booking requirements and coverage can change, check both before travelling. This lets you consider the service as a practical planning option without assuming that a particular area is covered.
Villanova offers several different reasons to visit: village architecture, views over the Gulf of Lava, coastal paths and a prehistoric site. The right choice depends on what you want to focus on during your stay. If you want to hike, you can choose between the beach route, the Sentier de Bomba and the steep path to the castellu; if you are interested in culture, there are also historical sites, artist visits by appointment and the July event.
Discover more destinations: Guitera-les-Bains, Levie, Ocana, Eccica-Suarella, Cognocoli-Monticchi, Quenza, Lecci, Ucciani.
View the regional travel guide: Corse-Du-Sud.
