L'Île-Rousse, meaning “Red Island,” lies on Corsica’s northwestern coast. Its lively main square, Place Paoli, is shaded by plane trees and surrounded by cafés where locals play pétanque in the afternoon. The old town, built with straight, intersecting streets in a simple grid pattern, is full of small shops and markets. This friendly seaside town keeps its local spirit while welcoming visitors from around the world.