Known as the ‘scented isle’, the French island of Corsica lies just west of Italy in the Mediterranean Sea. A Corsica holiday rewards visitors with rugged landscapes dominated by snow-capped granite peaks and covered in fragrant and colourful vegetation.
Corsica has a unique blend of old world French and Italian culture and is studded with exceptional vineyards, quaint fishing villages and attractive towns. Corsica’s 1,000 kilometres of scenic coastline and warm climate, means it is a popular destination for families and holidaymakers looking to relax on pretty beaches near crystal-clear waters. There are plenty of outdoor activities for the more energetic traveller. Corsica is a hiker and mountain biker's paradise with its many picturesque walking and cycling trails that suit all levels of competence.
Insider tip
By far the best way to get around Corsica is by car, but car hire and fuel can quickly add up over a holiday here. Planning is key plus a detailed road map is an indispensable companion, such as a Michelin guide book/map.
Events and festivals
Most of Corsica's festivals and events take place in the summertime, but there are still several winter and spring events. "Cinema weeks" showcase the films of various countries :Spanish, English, and Italian. Over 40 country fairs take place throughout the year (January and October excluded). Many of these fairs are organized by local artisans, crafters, and food producers, and feature such themes as cheese, wine, olives, crafts, wood products, animal husbandry, art, music, and the sea. In addition, there are lots of religious festivals and each village, and there are more than 300, celebrates its patron saint each year.
Popular things to do and see and unmissable experiences
There are plenty of places to visit in Corsica for families, couples and solo travellers alike. With an impressive array of beaches for sunbathing enthusiasts, historical sites for culture vultures and exciting activities such as kayaking and horse riding for those keen to get active, Corsica has all you need for an incredible holiday.
Ajaccio: Take a trip to the historic capital of Ajaccio, which sits on the West coast surrounded by wood covered mountains, a 15th century citadel and a port towards the sea on the Gulf of Ajaccio. This laid back town is filled with a large number of cafes, bars and restaurants, as well as monuments and dedications to Napoleon Bonaparte, who was born here. Visit the exciting and vibrant market .
Calanche de Piana and the Réserve Naturelle de Scandola [Scandola Nature Reserve]:This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on the central western coast of Corsica and boasts a huge unique rock mass on the coastline, with many grottos and sea pillars tucked away into cliffs and islets. The spectacular surroundings and wildlife include clear waters and varieties of sea birds, and the park can only be reached by boat.
Vizzavona: For a charming village surrounded by forests and wonderful restaurants, Vilzzavona is a fantastic stop for a taste of true Corsica. This pleasant mountain resort is a good base for those hiking the surrounding mountains and forests, including the massive Monte d’Oro which sits nearby and the well-known walking route, GR20 (see below).
Cap Corse: Located at the northern end of the island, this 40km long, 10km wide promontory is filled with beautiful coastline, lovely beaches, charming fishing villages and a ridge of mountains, which split it down the middle.
Beaches: visit Calvi, with its wide range of watersports, shallow waters and great amenities, Îles Lavezzi, part of the nature reserve off the coast of Bonifacio and Lozari, which has a large white sandy crescent with a nice café and plenty of watersports throughout the summer.
Climate
Mediterranean with summer temperatures from 21-28 degrees on average.
Other information
- Best time of year to travel: Flights operate from May to October
- Currency: Euro
- Flight time from UK: 2 Hrs 20 mins
