Discover educational farms in Corsica: activities for the whole family New

Want to get off the beaten track and change your traditional beach days in Corsica? Head to the educational farms. Here, there's no lazing around, but a real immersion in everyday rural island life. Children marvel at the animals, parents savor the authenticity of the place, and the whole family enjoys local products.


 Immerse yourself in Corsica's rural heritage

Agricultural Corsica reveals a more authentic side of the island. Educational farms bring ancient traditions back to life without resorting to artificial staging. Visitors discover the daily work of Corsican farmers, in harmony with this unique natural environment.

In Porto-Vecchio (Portivechju), the Padula farm covers three hectares and is bursting with life. Created in 2009 by Laëtitia Mannoni, the farm offers animal-assisted therapy. In the seven parks, children can feed ponies, geese, goats, and guinea pigs, an experience full of simplicity, far from the hustle and bustle of the coast.

Further west, the Olva nature park near Sartène covers 22 hectares. Donkeys trot freely and goats climb rocks. This is nothing like a zoo: the animals live in complete freedom, without barriers or constraints.

 Photo of a woman stroking a goat ©ADOBE STOCK Photo of a woman stroking a goat ©ADOBE STOCK

 Animal encounters for young and old

Animals fascinate children. In this respect, Corsican farms do not disappoint. Families can discover animals typical of local agriculture, as well as a few exotic surprises.

At the  Isula di i Sogni, in the Aregno plain near Algajola, diversity is the order of the day. No fewer than 34 enclosures and as many different species welcome visitors. Each animal has its own little presentation. Children can enter some of the enclosures to get closer to the animals. The little ones often spend hours with the goats, fascinated by their playful behavior.

At  the Padula farm , you can meet “Dino” the turkey, “Léon and Noël” the blue peacocks, and even “René” the wild boar. Children love the idea of giving names to the residents. Many still talk about René months after their visit.

The highlight of the show? Pony rides at Olva Park. A few minutes on the back of a pony and you'll have memories that will last a lifetime. The instructors are patient, even with little ones who panic at the last minute.

Photo of two little girls feeding grain to chickens ©adobe stock Photo of two little girls feeding grain to chickens ©adobe stock

Learning through experience: when education becomes a game

Learning happens naturally, through touching, observing, and asking questions. The farmers share their passion, and the information remains accessible even to the youngest visitors. At the; Olva  natural park, the botanical trail is a real discovery. Before the visit, many people know nothing about the uses of cork oak. The information sheets are clear and help visitors understand why the Corsican maquis smells so good. Children can play at being explorers by identifying Corsican plants.

In Padula, the three-hour workshop on Corsican bees is well worth a visit. Watching a beehive in action fascinates young and old alike. The guide explains how these little creatures make the famous Corsican PDO honey. The tasting that follows is a hit with everyone!

 

Fun activities in the great outdoors

 

After learning lots of new things, children can let off steam in the playgrounds integrated into the farm's natural surroundings.

The Padula farm offers traditional wooden games under the trees. Balance bikes are available for younger children to explore the grounds at their own pace. The playground with a slide, rope bridge, fireman's pole, and climbing net is also very popular.

At Isula di i Sogni, the sensory trail invites children to touch, smell, and listen to nature. The musical garden is a hit with families, as are the trampoline and swings. 

 

From farm to plate: Corsican produce in all its glory

 

It's impossible to talk about farms in Corsica without mentioning the food. With their many local products, visits often whet the appetite! Agriculture and local produce are closely linked on the Isle of Beauty.

Most educational farms offer products to take away, such as honey, farmhouse cheeses and homemade jams. In Padula, the “coin-coin gourmand” serves pancakes and cold drinks after the guided tour. There's nothing like a sweet treat after frolicking with the goats!

It's impossible to talk about farms in Corsica without mentioning the food. With their many local products, visits often whet the appetite! Agriculture and local produce are closely linked on the Isle of Beauty.  Most educational farms offer products to take away, such as honey, farmhouse cheeses and homemade jams. In Padula, the “coin-coin gourmand” serves pancakes and cold drinks after the guided tour. There's nothing like a sweet treat after frolicking with the goats! ©adobe stock It's impossible to talk about farms in Corsica without mentioning the food. With their many local products, visits often whet the appetite! Agriculture and local produce are closely linked on the Isle of Beauty. Most educational farms offer products to take away, such as honey, farmhouse cheeses and homemade jams. In Padula, the “coin-coin gourmand” serves pancakes and cold drinks after the guided tour. There's nothing like a sweet treat after frolicking with the goats! ©adobe stock

Want to extend the experience? Head to the farmhouse inn at the Domaine de Piscia  near Figari in southern Corsica. Christine, the owner, concocts traditional dishes using produce from her farm, including fresh eggs, organic wine, veal with olives, and roast kid. Every bite tells the story of this respectful form of agriculture that is the pride of the island.

 

The “educational farm visit + meal at the farmhouse inn” package is a perfect day out for families. Children learn where the food on their plates comes from, and everyone gets to enjoy high-quality local produce. A complete immersion in rural Corsica!

Please note: Prepare for your visit to an educational farm

Closed shoes are essential. In these natural surroundings, a baby carrier is much more practical than a stroller. Check the opening hours before you go—they are subject to change depending on the season and weather. Reservations are often required, especially for guided tours such as those in Padula (10:30 a.m., duration 1.5 hours, Tuesday to Saturday). Prices are affordable: €5 to €12 per person.

 

Corsican educational farms offer an authentic break during an island trip. Between cuddling animals, discovering nature, rural games, and local delicacies, these farms offer a complete family experience. Children leave enchanted and parents rediscover a lively and welcoming form of agriculture.