Galeria is (normally) a very picturesque fishing village, 28km from Calvi. The road via the Col de Marsolino is one of my favourite in Corsica and if, occasionally, I regret the construction of the new apartment blocks that is taking place in Calvi – I drive to Galeria and am instantly reassured. This is an easy, 30 minute drive and the stunning scenery and distinct lack of civilisation is good for the soul! Yes, you may be held up for a few minutes by the local shepherdess ushering her troop of brebis across the road. This is an area where great cheese is produced, but you won’t come across much else.
So for this long Bank Holiday weekend Galeria hosted the first ever motorbike convention in Corsica and an atmosphere of slight disorganisation and good nature prevailed – parking was “typically Corsican”. As I arrived, I headed for a thick cloud of greyish smoke (mixed with the unctuous smell of burning rubber) and judging by the excitement of the commentator, there was obviously something happening within the smoke. As it cleared, I could see what it was all about. There was not much left of the rear tyre…
There were bikes of all shapes and sizes, numerous little stalls selling bike paraphernalia – yes, you could even buy freshly pressed olive oil – or maybe it goes into the bikes? Even the tiny chapel had been converted into a refreshment area.
The centre of the village is charming, the beach is pebbled – which means the water is crystal clear. There’s not a lot in Galeria, but there is a very good fish restaurant “Sole e Mare “ which is not far from the church so if you are staying in this area, it`s definitely worth the trip. I overheard the Mayor being interview by the local TV station and he declared the event had been an outstanding success with 1 million bikers visiting over the 3 days, so I guess this looks set to become an annual event.
GALERIA BIKER-BAY from MC VIDEO Max Chouraki on Vimeo.
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