Pieve d’Olmia

Zilia is renowned for the mineral water that bears its name. Sourced from the slopes of Montegrossu, Zilia water is now known throughout Corsica. Long before that, the locals were already drinking from the spring in the village of A Dirza, which was renowned for its health benefits. The village is also renowned for its gourmet specialities. It was here that the ‘cuggiulelle’ were first created – a traditional biscuit given a modern twist based on an old family recipe.

Situated on the road leading to Calinzana – Calenzana – the Domaine Alzipratu has been cultivating vines for three generations on the hillsides of Balagne and produces wines under the AOP Corse-Calvi appellation. Certified as an “organic farm”, the estate benefits from a contrasting climate: the warmth of the Mediterranean climate and the humidity of the mountains.

Around Cassanu and Lunghignanu, olive trees have also long been a feature of the hillsides. Retaining walls, old mule tracks and orchards thus shape the landscape. Cassanusurprises visitors with its star-shaped layout, whilst the old mill in Lunghignanu, U Fragnu, remains a gastronomic stop-off point showcasing the flavours of the olive.