Corsica is an ideal place to create unforgettable and long-lasting family holiday memories. A land of extravagant Mediterranean nature, fascinating history, and rich culture, it brims with adventure. Being a safe, child-friendly destination, the Island of Beauty is known as kids’ paradise where each day offers an exciting opportunity to have fun, learn, and make new friends.
In this article, I will guide you through some of the best activities available for the whole family in Corsica. The list includes a comprehensive selection of engaging attractions that cater to a range of preferences and age groups for the most joyful holiday.
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1. SEMI-SUBMARINE EXCURSION IN PORTO
Enjoy a semi-submarine visit to the seabed of Porto Bay. View and explore the fauna and flora inhabiting the magical Gulf dominated by Calanches de Piana. In season, the boat departs from the Porto marina every hour from 9 am to 7 pm. Two circuits are offered depending on weather conditions. If you are lucky you may even spot the dolphins.
Although this 45 minutes-long activity is especially well suited to small children who are not yet able to snorkel or dive, it will also entertain teenagers and adults.
Click here to check availability and book tickets in advance.
2. A CUPULATTA – TURTLE SANCTUARY NEAR AJACCIO
Visit Europe’s leading center for turtle and tortoise research, breeding, and conservation. The A Cupulatta sanctuary spreads over 2.5 hectares of natural Corsican habitats displaying over 170 species from around the world. From tiny newborns, terrapins, alligator or cherry turtles to giant Galapagos and Seychelles tortoises, you will be able to discover over 3000 specimens.
Founded in 1993, the park offers excellent conditions for the animals assuring their welfare and medical care. On-site, you will also find a snack bar and a tasteful gift shop. Tickets cost from €9-€12 (admission for children under 5 years of age is free). You may purchase skip-the-line tickets here.
A Cupulatta is located 17 km southeast of Ajaccio on the T20 road. The shaded car park in front of the sanctuary is complimentary. Alternatively, you may access the sanctuary by train running from Ajaccio to Carbuccia (from there it is only a 20 minutes-long walk), by bus connecting Ajaccio and Bastia, or take a taxi.
Learn more about how to get around Corsica.
3. RIVER HIKING IN THE FANGO VALLEY
Enjoy an exciting aquatic adventure hiking down the Fango River. Swimming, jumping, rock sliding, and splashing in the emerald pools of the torrent can entertain the entire family. With easy access and balmy water, the Fango Canyon is known as the perfect first river descent destination. Equipped with comfortable water shoes and sun protection, you may spend a whole day playing in this delightful torrent.
Located in Balagne, a beautiful region of northern Corsica, the valley may be reached via the D351 road from Galeria. The Tuarelli bridge is a great place to start your water hike. If you plan a longer outing, carry some water and snacks (use a waterproof sac to protect your belongings).
OTHER PLACES FOR FUN-FILLED WATER ESCAPADES
- Valleé de la Restonica – central Corsica
- Gorges d’Asco – central Corsica
- Rivière Figarella – north Corsica
- Canyon Pulishellu – south Corsica
- Piscines Naturelles de Cavu – south Corsica
IMPORTANT TIP- Out of all Corsican rivers, it is Fango that offers the warmest water temperature comfortable for younger children.
4. ICE CREAM TASTING
On a hot summer day, treat your family to some of the best ice cream on the island. Corsica is home to outstanding artisanal glaciers that craft delicious, original ice cream with locally sourced produce. With unique flavours and exceptionally creamy texture, the frozen treat is a great excuse to indulge in sweet pleasures.
THE BEST ICE CREAM IN CORSICA
- Chez Raugi – Bastia
The family of recognized artisans from Bastia have crafted their fabulous ice cream since 1937. Up till this day, they use the original traditional recipes passed on from father to son. The best flovours to try include Chocolat Royal and Canistrelli. Pizzas are equally delicious.
Address – 2 bis Rue du Chanoine Colombani, 20200 Bastia
- José Salge – Saint Florent
Maison Salge, famous pastry makers from north Corsica produce, under the brand l’Isle aux desserts, superb sorbets and ice cream with signature flavours of Myrtle, Brocciu, Figue, or Honey. You may purchase their produce in a shop in the center of Saint Florent, directly at the factory, or even in the local supermarkets.
Address – Place de la Porta 20217 Saint-Florent or Zone Artisanale 20217 Saint-Florent
- Pierre Geronimi – Sagone
Pierre Geronimi elevated ice cream making to an art form acclaimed worldwide. In his establishment in Sagone, he serves the highest-quality produce made from original, fresh ingredients. Offering a wealth of unique flavours, he also creates savoury sorbet-based salads.
Address – Résidence De La Plage, Les Eucalyptus, 20118
- Rocca Serra – Bonifacio
In the port of Bonifacio, you may try the sublime homemade ice cream from Francois Rocca Serra. The famous confectioner with Italian roots offers a wide variety of authentic flavours such as Candid Chestnut, Nepita, or Corsican Mandarine, although the classic tastes are equally delectable. If you don’t like your ice cream too sweet, Rocca Serra is a great place to check out.
Address – 1 Rue Saint-Dominique 20169 Bonifacio or 17 Quai Jérôme Comparetti 20169 Bonifacio
- Glacier Neri – Ajaccio
The artisanal ice cream maker Glacier Neri is considered the best parlor in the capital city of Corsica. Faithful customers addicted to the mouth-watering guilty pleasure cannot reach a consensus on the best flavours but it is the outstanding Neri sorbets that seem to top the charts.
Address: 19-17 Bd Madame Mère, 20000 Ajaccio
5. ADVENTURE PARKS AND VIA FERRATA COURSES
The wild Corsican nature provides a magnificent backdrop to outdoor fun at Adventure Parks and Via Ferrata courses. This exciting activity suited to active families will allow you to explore some of the island’s most beautiful scenery while navigating rocky steps, cable bridges, and steel ladders. With various difficulty levels of the routes, both beginners and experienced climbers will be able to find the right course.
Careful preparation, safety, and professional supervision are required when taking on this exhilarating activity to ensure the most enjoyable, risk-free experience.
BEST PLACES FOR OUTDOOR FUN
- Bavella – Adventure Park and Via Ferrata
Located between Solenzara and Bavella, in the Laricio pine forest by the river, G Aventura provides Via Ferrata routes and tree climbing for adults as well as for children. Prices range from €8 for a baby park to €19 for an adult Via Ferrata. Find more information on the official website https://www.g-aventura.corsica/.
- Calvi – Adventure Park and Zipline Course
Nestled in the Calvi forest bordering the sea, the Altore Adventure Park offers activities accessible to children aged 5 and older. Prices start at €5 for the youngest ones going up to €20 for the Tyrolean route. Consult the website for more information https://www.altore.com/parcours-aventure.
IMPORTANT UPDATE – The park is temporarily closed and did not reopen for season 2023. Check availability on the official site.
- Asco – Adventure Park and Via Ferrata
The Adventure Course in Asco provides 7 exciting routes combining Via Ferrata with ladders, suspended bridges, and ropes in the magnificent surroundings of the wild river valley. The easiest activities are available for children aged 6 with prices ranging from €32-€49. Find detailed information at https://interracorsa.com/en/activites-corse/adventure-course/.
- Ajaccio – Vero Adventure Park
Corsica’s largest treetop adventure park exposed to panoramic views of the Ajaccio Gulf presents 17 courses of varied difficulty levels. Equipped with a continuous lifeline, the routes guarantee maximum safety standards for children aged 3 and older. Half a day’s fun at the park costs €14-€26. Check details at https://revesdecimes.fr/accrobranche-de-vero/.
- Tolla Lake – Via Ferrata
Overlooking the jewel-hued lake with its impressive dam, Via Ferrata de Tolla will allow you to experience dizzying sensations on its rocky course furnished with cables and bars. This 3-hour long activity is accessible for children from 11 years with prices starting at €22-€45, depending on the chosen formula. To rent necessary equipment and hire a guide consult the official site https://revesdecimes.fr/via-ferrata-de-tolla/.
6. DONKEY RIDES IN THE MOUNTAINS
Hiking with donkeys is a fabulous family activity that allows you to discover Corsica’s beautiful scenery, exercise, and enjoy contact with gentle, cuddly animals. Children unequivocally love donkey rides and the island provides an enchanting backdrop to this joyful adventure.
BEST PLACES TO WALK WITH DONKEYS
- Niolo – Donkey Rides
In the heart of Corsica, the mountainous region of Niolo seduces with some of the most majestic views on the island. At the foot of the highest summits, you may set out on a half-a-day or a day-long family trek along old trails crossing mountain streams, forests, and valleys. The most challenging is the hike to Lake Nino, a sublime place where wild horses run free amid Tibet-like scenery. Depending on the itinerary the prices range from €40-€95. Find more detais at https://www.randonnee-ane-corse.com/en/accueil-1.
- Lake Creno – Hike with a Donkey
The water-lily-covered high-altitude Lac de Creno nestled at 1310 meters above sea level is a glorious hiking destination for the whole family. Starting in the picturesque village of Soccia 70 km northeast of Ajaccio, the trail covers 6.40 km (round trip). Free of technical difficulties, it leads to a sublime spot perfect for relaxing picnics. At the car park, you may hire a donkey to accompany you along the way or carry the youngest children. Learn more about this beautiful adventure.
- Fiuminale – Donkey Rides to a Ghost Village
In the mountains of Castagniccia on Corsica’s east coast, a 2.7 km long trail leads to an eerie abandoned village of Fiuminale. Shaded by ancient woods it crosses numerous times a humming stream before reaching the remote hamlet. At the trailhead near Pont de l’Enfer, you may hire a donkey either for a half-a-day excursion or for the full day (€68). Learn more about the hike to Fiuminale.
7. WATERSPORTS
Crystal clear water, powder-soft sand, rocky coves, and dramatic cliffs- Corsica’s 1000 km-long coastline grants a range of marine landscapes ready to satisfy all tastes and preferences. Families with small children will appreciate the beaches around Porto-Vecchio where gently shelving white shores disappear in turquoise waters of the balmy Mediterranean Sea. Ajaccio Bay’s southern coast and the northern territory of Balagne are equally kid-safe but lovers of adventure and snorkeling should head to the island’s rugged west coast or Cap Corse.
Corsican seaside resorts are blessed with excellent watersports infrastructure yet they manage to maintain their discreet charm. At the beach, you will have an opportunity to practice a wide range of aquatic activities including paddling, surfing, jet-skiing, or kayaking. Waterfront bars and restaurants serve light meals and refreshing drinks. However, access to freshwater beach showers is very rare in Corsica.
Consult the list of Corsica’s best beaches to find the perfect spot for your family holiday.
8. HORSE RIDING
With over 1000 km of scenic paths and vast stretches of windswept beaches, Corsica is a wonderful place to enjoy horse riding. Each region of the island boasts an equestrian center where visitors may choose from a variety of itineraries and circuits for beginners or experienced riders. A 2-hour-long excursion costs around €60-€90 but you may also hire a horse for a full day. Guided tours, pony rides with picnics, obstacle training, and equestrian games are only some of the numerous activities included in the offer.
WHERE TO PRACTICE HORSE-RIDING
- Sagone – Ranch Corse https://www.ranchcorse.com/
- Cap Corse – Cavallu di Brando https://cavallu-di-brando.corse.me/
- Ostriconi – Arbo Valley https://www.arbovalley.com/
- Porto Vecchio – Ranch Villata https://www.ranchvillata.fr/
- Serra di Ferro – Fior di Lezza https://www.fiordilezza.net/
9. KAYAKING ON LAKE TOLLA
Lake Tolla near Ajaccio is a true haven of peace and wild nature. Its emerald-coloured still waters provide a restful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the coast. A nautical center located on the shore offers a variety of water equipment for hire. Kayaks, pedalos, canoes, stand-up paddles, and small fishing boats are available by the hour or by half a day. Two lake bars serve light meals and cool drinks. The Centre Nautique de Tolla is open from June to September. Prices may be consulted online https://www.centre-nautique-de-tolla.fr/.
OTHER GREAT PLACES TO PRACTICE FAMILY PADDLING
- Fango River Delta – Galeria
Discover the rich fauna and flora of the exceptional UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve. In the soothing silence broken only by birds, you will have a chance to watch pond turtles lounging on river banks. On-site, you can rent kayaks or family canoes for €8 per person for an hour of paddling. Tours are available from June to the end of September.
- Tavignano River Delta – Aleria
Explore wild landscapes of the lower Tavignano River on a kayaking excursion organized by the Aleria Nautical Club. Open throughout the year, the water sports center provides kayaks, canoes, and Stand Up Paddles. Larger groups may book accompanied day-long water hikes for €30-€45 per person.
10. CANYONING IN THE CORSICAN RIVERS
Canyoning is an exciting multi-sport escapade that unites water and land recreation in a fun-filled outdoor adventure. During a river or a canyon descent, you will experience all kinds of physical activity such as climbing, swimming, hiking, and jumping, an exhilarating blend of carefree entertainment perfect to share with family and friends.
Corsica abounds in beautiful riverside locations ideal for practicing this playful sport. Many agencies organizing water hikes include in their offer canyoning trips adapted to children as young as 6. Such adventures usually take half a day (including destination access and gear preparation) and cost from €45-€50 per person. When choosing the right location and formula for your activity check the requirements for footwear and clothing. Good general health and the ability to swim are imperative.
BEST CANYONING LOCATIONS FOR FAMILIES
- Canyon Verghellu – Venaco – Vivario, by the Eiffel Bridge
- Canyon Zoicu – Soccia
- Canyon Gravona – Ajaccio
- Canyon Richiusa – Bocognano
- Canyon Baracci – Propriano
- Canyon Pulischellu – Bavella
CANYONING PROVIDERS
- Canyon Corse – https://www.canyon-corse.com/
- Corse Aventure – https://corse-aventure.com/canyoning-corse/
- Reves de Cimes – https://revesdecimes.fr/canyoning-en-corse/
- In Terra Corsa – https://interracorsa.com/en/activite/kid-canyon-rando-aqua/
- Corsica Madness – https://www.corsicamadness.fr/
- Corsica Canyon – https://www.canyoncorse.com/en/
- Corsica Natura – https://www.corsicanatura-activites.fr/canyoning-en-corse-corsica-natura–bocognano-60
11. FAMILY BOAT EXCURSIONS
In Corsica, families may enjoy the most thrilling boat excursions and tours to famous natural landmarks which are often accessible only from the sea. Marine cruise operators based in the island’s principal port towns propose a diverse selection of scenic trips to interesting off-shore destinations aboard comfortable vessels or speedy 12-seater semi-ridges. Often the tour includes snorkeling in an exotic location, live music, or Corsican food tasting. With such variety, everyone can find their perfect sea adventure.
BEST BOAT TOUR DESTINATIONS
SCANDOLA NATURE RESERVE
- Boat trip from Porto. A 3 to 4-hour-long boat journey to the iconic coast with a 30-minute stop in the village of Girolata. The boat is equipped with comfortable shaded areas whereas the information leaflet is available in French, English, and Italian.
- Day cruise from Cargese. 7-hour-long trip aboard a comfortable boat with shaded areas, toilets, and a bar. Includes a visit to the most iconic places of the reserve with a 2-hour stop in Girolatta and a break for swimming.
- Boat tour from Calvi. A scenic 4-hour trip to the most iconic landscapes in Corsica. You will explore the fascinating rocky chaos of Scandola, visit the picturesque village of Girolata, and admire the red-coloured cliffs of the Calanches.
- Day trip from Ajaccio. A full-day tour to the Scandola Reserve with a 2h stopover in the village of Girolata aboard a comfortable vessel. Other scenic attractions include Capo Rosso and the Calanches. Learn more and book here.
ILES LAVEZZI
- Boat trip from Bonifacio. Explore the Bonifacio National Park on a 3-hour-long speedboat tour to some of the most scenic corners of Corsica. Soak up views of the Genoese tower of Capicciolu, the Lavezzi Archipelago with its stunning beaches, and the Bay of Fazzio. Go for a dip in crystal-clear waters and discover the marine life.
- Boat tour from Ajaccio. Visit Bonifacio, swim in the pristine waters of Iles Lavezzi, sample local wines and meats, and admire magnificent views of southern Corsica. During this full-day trip, you will also stop at the exquisite cove of Roccapina.
BONIFACIO CLIFFS
- Boat trip from Bonifacio. Admire beautiful coastal landscapes around Bonifacio on a relaxing 1.5-hour-long boat tour departing from the Piantarella beach. Learn about the area’s history, culture, and main landmarks from your on-board tour guide.
DESERT DES AGRIATES
- Boat trip from Ile Rousse. Hop aboard a boat in the port of Ile Rousse to visit the famous beaches of the Agriates- Saleccia and Lotu. During your break, you can snorkel in the aquamarine water and admire the sublime scenery of Corsica’s northern coast.
- Sailing Cruise from Saint Florent. Put your feet up under sails and enjoy magnificent views of the Corsican shores. At each stop of your tour, you will have an opportunity to snorkel in the transparent waters of the sea soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
ILES SANGUINAIRES
- Boat trip from Ajaccio or Porticcio. Discover the natural beauty of the Gulf of Ajaccio and the Sanguinaires archipelago on a comfortable 3-hour boat tour departing from Ajaccio or Porticcio. Enjoy a stopover on Mezza Mare, the main island in the archipelago. Snorkel in the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean.
- Sunset boat trip from Ajaccio. Enjoy a 3-4-hour long sea adventure to Iles Sanguinaires from Ajaccio at sunset. Indulge in local wines and Corsican gastronomic specialties listening to live music.
IMPORTANT TIP : small speedboats are not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, heart problems, or other serious medical conditions. In case of any of the above, choose a larger craft when booking your sea excursion.
12. HISTORY AT THE CORSICAN MUSEUMS
Travel back in time on a fascinating tour of the Corsican archeological treasures displayed at world-famous historic sites. During this fun yet educational activity children may discover the remains of ancient settlements, mysterious megalithic sculptures, prehistoric art, and everyday objects used by the ancestors. The Corsican museums are often situated in open-space natural locations where kids are free to actively explore the bygone eras igniting their curiosity and imagination.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY MUSEUMS IN CORSICA
Set in the beautiful scenery of Taravo Valley the celebrated UNESCO inscribed megalithic site Filitosa unveils the origins of Corsica’s unique heritage. Carved statue-menhirs and an archeological museum complex with ancient artifacts may be explored for a standard fee of €9 while children under 6 years of age are free of charge. On-site, you will find a gift shop and a restaurant.
The Genoese Fort of Matra houses an exhibition of Roman, Etruscan, Bronze, and Iron Age artifacts while in the adjacent excavation site, you will explore the remnants of a Roman settlement. The pre-Roman necropolis reveals Augustus’s triumphal arch, the praetorium, the balneum, the foundations of the temple, and shops. Entry tickets to the Aleria Museum cost €4 with free access for children under 10.
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