Corsica Water Quality in 2025: 91% of the Island’s Bathing Sites Meet EU Safety Standards
As Summer 2025 unfolds, Corsica’s beaches and rivers beckon, but with a promise backed by fresh data. The Agence Régionale de Santé (ARS) of Corsica reports that 91 % of the island’s 230 monitored bathing sites now comply with the European Directive 2006/7/EC. Yet freshwater spots remain the weak link, demanding extra vigilance from responsible travellers.
Corsica water quality: a mid-season snapshot for 2025
- Total sites under surveillance: 230 (173 coastal, 57 freshwater)
- 2024 sampling: over 1,800 tests (mid-June to mid-September)
- Pre-season 2025 checks (May 26–June 6):
- Freshwater: 56 sites conforming (43 “good,” 13 “moderate”), 1 non-compliant
- Coastal: all 173 sites conforming (172 “good,” 1 “moderate”)
These early-season figures reinforce last year’s strong performance and set the tone for a safe, enjoyable summer. While 90 % of coastal waters achieved “excellent” or “good” ratings, only 35 % of freshwater sites did the same in the 2021–2024 classification, trends that persist into 2025. Lower flows and higher temperatures in July and August can allow bacteria to proliferate in rivers and lakes.
Certain stretches remain closed through 2025 due to degraded quality or safety risks:
- South Corsica: key river sections (Taravo, Liamone), Genoese bridges at Sartene and Bastelica.
- North Corsica: Aleria Nautical Base (leisure use only), Bridge of Altiani, Marines de Sorbo, among others.
Locally posted yellow-and-red signs and ARS bulletins highlight these no-go zones.
A few things to remember to maintain Corsica’s water quality
- Respect signage: Rules evolve. Always scan updated warning signs.
- Dispose responsibly: Use on-site bins; never toss waste near water.
- Rinse ashore: Avoid soaps or oils in rivers and the sea.
- Limit river impact: Stay on marked trails; avoid stirring up sediments.
- Report on the spot: Spot unusual discolouration or odour? Alert local authorities immediately.
Looking Ahead to October 2025
The current classifications remain valid until October 2025, when post-season analyses will integrate summer’s final data. In the meantime, Corsica’s clear waters—backed by rigorous 2025 testing—offer a refreshing playground for eco-minded visitors.
