CORSICA- WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO

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Corsica boasts an unparalleled variety of extraordinary landscapes- from spectacular mountain ranges and white sandy beaches to fragrant forests and emerald river pools. The unique blend of this astonishing scenic diversity paired with a rich cultural and culinary heritage paired with a staggering variety of activities make the ‘island of beauty’ a delightful destination to explore.

Before you set off on your next adventure, discover Corsica’s distinctive regions with their abundant wealth of attractions and choose destinations that best cater to your needs.

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NORTH CORSICA

Pristine white beaches dotting the rugged coastline, charming hilltop villages nestled against the majestic backdrop of the ‘Grande Barrière’ and old fishing ports cradled by silver olive growths contrasted by the splendor of Corsica’s northern capital, Bastia.

Less explored than the southern counterpart, the fabulously authentic Corsican North remains home to the island’s best-kept secrets and a popular choice among those wishing to indulge in the true Corsican experience.

PLACES TO VISIT

• Visit Bastia, Corsica’s northern capital and the island’s second-largest city founded by the Genoese in 1378, with the lively Place Saint Nicolas, nostalgic narrow streets of the Old Port, and an imposing citadel.
• Discover the chic marina of the fishing port of Saint Florent, a fashionable town set idyllically in the Nebbio Valley.
• Indulge in the sultry atmosphere of L’Ile Rousse, a charming resort founded in the 18^th century by Pascal Paoli.
• Explore Calvi, one of Corsica’s most attractive towns with a 6km white sandy beach and a medieval citadel crowning a rocky promontory.
• Enjoy a day trip to one of the picturesque hilltop villages of the Balagne region, with Calenzana, Montegrosso, Saint Antonino, Corbara, and Pigna to name just a few.
• Discover the majestic Foret de Bonifatu with luxurious Laricio pine trees and evergreen oaks with a dramatic backdrop of Corsica’s highest mountains.
• Admire one of the most beautiful churches in Corsica- Eglise San Michele de Murato, a Pisan-Romanesque jewel dating back to 1280.

THINGS TO DO

• Enjoy the famous scenic drive around Cap Corse, the northernmost peninsula of the island. The highlights include the black beach in Nonza, the charming port of Centuri, or the relaxing Macinaggio.
• Taste Patrimonio quality wines, some of the best on the island. Muscat du Cap Corse, sweet and delicate, will complement beautifully Corsica’s best-loved dessert, delicious Fiadone.
• Enjoy a Désert des Agriates hike to explore some of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches– the wild Ostriconi or the idyllic Saleccia.
• Or if you don’t like walking- rent a quad bike or a 4×4 car to explore the fragrant maquis of the Désert des Agriates.
• Hop on the boat in Calvi to explore the spectacular Nature Reserve of Scandola and the otherworldly village of Girolata.
• Enjoy a family fun-filled day canyoning down the emerald pools of the Fango River.
• Try a local specialty, the famous Ghjermana olive oil.

WEST COAST

With its extraordinary red cliffs of Scandola- a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, emerald waters of remote beaches embraced by dense forests, and the magical atmosphere of Corsica’s capital- Ajaccio, the island’s dramatic west coast offers a truly unforgettable holiday experience.

This emblematic region of Corsica is particularly popular among sports enthusiasts looking for a wide variety of attractions. From diving, kayaking, or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters of rocky inlets to climbing some of the most celebrated summits, every traveler is guaranteed an exciting adventure.

PLACES TO VISIT

• Discover Porto, a small port town known for its unforgettable sunsets illuminating the crimson-red rocks of the rugged coast.
• Stroll along the narrow streets of one of France’s most beautiful villages- Piana. Perched 438m above sea level and breathtakingly picturesque, Piana is perfectly located for the exploration of the west coast’s scenic highlights.
• Explore the charming village of Cargèse known for having given asylum to Greek refugees in 1676. Its two churches- Orthodox and catholic- face each other in a reminder of the historic union of two cultures.
• Visit Corsica’s capital and the largest town on the island- Ajaccio. Lively and elegant, the birthplace of Napoleon will charm you with numerous historical sites as well as chic café terraces, stylish restaurants, and quirky shops.
• Enjoy a relaxing day at some of the best beaches on the island. The most beautiful spots include the beaches of Arone, Bussaglia, Menasina, Cupabia, Mare E Sole, and Cala d’Orzu.
• Visit Europe’s leading centre for turtle research ‘A Cupulatta’. Enjoy over 170 different species from 5 continents.
• At Vico, visit the convent Saint Francis founded in 1481 by Giovan Paolo di Leca.

THINGS TO DO

• Enjoy a boat trip to the Nature Reserve of Scandola, a scenic highlight of the west coast and a global benchmark for biodiversity protection. Departures from Sagone, Cargese, Porto, and Ajaccio.
• Discover the mesmerizing archipelago of Iles Sanguinaires near Ajaccio. View the islands at sunset when the rocky heaven lights up in a medley of vivid colors. Hop on a boat to explore the virgin landscapes.
• Explore the UNESCO-protected spectacular Calanches de Piana, one of Corsica’s top scenic highlights. Enjoy an unforgettable drive through 300m high red crags at sunset or admire the eroded rock formations from the boat. For a more personal experience follow a 1h trail to the Chateau Fort winding through dramatic scenery exposed to sweeping views of the west coast.
• Climb the striking Capo d’Orto (1294m) dominating the Porto Gulf for some of the best views in Corsica.
• Harness your fear of heights during a beautiful scenic drive along the Spelunca Gorge. Every twist and turn of this spectacular route offers breathtaking vistas.
• Hike the glorious red granite cliffs of the Capu Rossu summit for awe-inspiring views of the emblematic west coast.
• Refresh yourself during a lovely walk to the idyllic spot of the Creno Lake covered by beautiful lotus flowers and surrounded by Laricio pine trees.
• Set off on a scenic walk from Ota to Evisa, attractive hill villages, enjoying a mid-hike break for a refreshing swim in crystalline waters of emerald river pools.
• Taste the delicious highest quality charcuterie of Cristinacce.
• Get away from the crowds and enjoy a kayak excursion at the peaceful spot of Tolla Lake at an altitude of 552m.

SOUTH CORSICA

Home to Porto-Vecchio, Corsica’s third-largest town, the island’s southernmost region offers a unique blend of pre-historic mystery and ancient traditions complemented by the majestic scenery of Alta Rocca rising above silver sand iconic beaches set in idyllic coastal locations.

With exciting hikes in fragrant Laricio pine forests, deep canyons of the Bavella massif, and boat excursions to the white cliffs of Bonifacio or the Lavezzi Islands, South Corsica will keep nature lovers occupied and entertained.

PLACES TO VISIT

• Discover the largest Genoese tower of Corsica located in the idyllic town of Campomoro with its dreamy golden beach and relaxing atmosphere.
• Experience the Corsican spirit at the authentic town of Sartene famous for its history of vendetta and piracy and a Museum of Corsican Prehistory.
• Visit the arresting Bonifacio, the most frequented of all Corsican towns perched on majestic white cliffs and saturated with medieval charm.
• Explore the picturesque old town of Porto Vecchio, a Genoese stronghold founded in 1539, before you relax at its lively marina.
• If you enjoy mountain hikes, climbing, or canyoning set up your base in Zonza, an unbearably photogenic town located at the foot of the magnificent massif of Bavella.
• Discover some of the most beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean set in idyllic locations. The most famous spots include the beach of Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, Sperone, Rondinara, and the stunning Roccapina.

THINGS TO DO

• Hop on the boat to explore the sea caves and inlets below the old town of Bonifacio or choose a longer excursion to the nature reserve of Lavezzi Islands for the best snorkeling experience.
• Roam wild scenery along a coastal hike between Campomoro and Tizzano. Accessible only on foot, this regional nature reserve is famous for its untamed vegetation and turquoise waters of secluded coves dotting the coastline with Cala di Conca and Cala d’Arana being some of the most attractive.
• Explore the mysterious Filitosa, a world-renowned prehistoric site and home to carved statue-menhirs, or a nearby Pianu di Levie with its Casteddu de Cucuruzzu dating back to 1400 BC.
• Enjoy a fun-filled day canyoning in the emerald waters of the Bavella massif canyons, some of the most beautiful spots on the island.
• Indulge your senses during the famous scenic drive Porto Vecchio- Bavella- Solenzara, the soaring granite needles of the massif cradled by glorious Laricio pine forests.
• Hike to the spectacular 60m high waterfall Piscia di Gallo located in the proximity of the serene Ospedale Lake.
• Enjoy a relaxing round of golf on the scenic Golf de Sperone overlooking the Mediterranean.
• Choose from numerous diving sites and discover Corsica’s truly diverse marine life.

EAST COAST

Although less visited than other regions of the island, Eastern Corsica offers an all-around holiday experience and a wide array of local attractions.

With a less rugged coastline, wide sandy beaches make a perfect destination for families with small children, and the fertile soils of the vast plains offer delicious high-quality local products. Fragrant oak forests of the Castagniccia region provide plentiful hike opportunities while the scenic slopes of Monte Renoso attract skiers in winter.

History enthusiasts exploring the past are spoiled for choice with numerous Baroque-style chapels and churches and a fantastic collection of pre-historic artifacts. Finally, if narrow windy roads are not your thing, enjoy the straight T10.

PLACES TO VISIT

• Explore the fascinating artifacts at the Museum of Archaeology Jerome Carcopino in Aleria, the Roman capital of Corsica dating back to the 6^th century BC, now a lively coastal town.
• Relax at the beautiful Pinia beach at Ghisonaccia lined with aromatic maritime pine trees, a great spot for a refreshing picnic.
• Enjoy a day out in the picturesque port town of Solenzara with its white sandy beach and lively restaurants.
• Discover Ghisoni, a lovely 16th-century mountain village infused with Corsica’s authentic charm.
• Enjoy a stroll along the peaceful banks of Urbinu Lake– relaxing wetlands supporting a variety of flora and fauna species.
• Discover the breathtaking 100m high waterfall Cascade de Buja in San Gavino di Fiumorbo.
• Visit the captivating Baroque Eglise de Saint-Jean-Baptiste in La Porta, Castagniccia.

THINGS TO DO

• For mesmerizing vistas hike to the summit of Monte San Petrone, the highest peak in the Castagniccia region with an altitude of 1767m.
• In winter head for a day of sea-view skiing in the spectacular resort of Renoso.
• Climb one of the highest mountains in Corsica- Monte Renoso. At 2352m the summit offers a stupendous panorama over southern Corsica.
• Enjoy a high-altitude picnic at one of Corsica’s most beautiful alpine lakes – Lac de Bastani.
• Try local fruit of the highest quality produced on the fertile soils of the Eastern Plain- choose from kiwi, clementines, peaches, or delicious nectarines.
• Dine on fabulously fresh oysters farmed since antiquity at the Pond of Diane.
• For relaxing forest walks head to Alesani, Orezza, and Ampugnani, three ‘pieves’ nestled in the shade of sweet chestnut trees. The scenic hike to the abandoned village of Fiuminale is a great family-friendly attraction.
• Taste famous chestnut base specialties such as polenta or local cakes.
• Adrenaline junkies will enjoy a spectacular Via Ferrata ‘U Calanconi’ in the little village of Chisa.

CENTRAL CORSICA

This immensely beautiful area set in the heart of the Regional Nature Reserve of Corsica is a perfect destination for nature lovers in search of an active holiday.

Dramatic gorges of Restonica and Tavignano, remote valleys dominated by Corsica’s highest peaks, Monte Cinto and Monte Rotondo, and dense pine forests offer hundreds of scenic hike opportunities, including the celebrated long-distance GR20. Emerald pools of wild mountain rivers and fresh waters of high-altitude lakes are contrasted by saturated with history narrow streets of Corsica’s former capital- Corte.

Manifesting authentic insular identity and rich cultural heritage, Corsica’s unspoilt interior should not be missed.

PLACES TO VISIT

• Discover the emerald pools of the Cascades des Anglais of the Agnone River near Vizzavona.
• Enjoy the refreshing shade of the Vizzavona forest, a sea of glorious Laricio pines, and a great walking spot.
• Admire the famous Gustave Eiffel Viaduct located at the foot of Monte Rotondo near  Venaco village.
• Visit Maison de Pascal Paoli museum in Morosaglia– the birthplace of Corsica’s revered hero where fascinating memorabilia tell a compelling story of his life.
• Explore the historic capital of Corsica- Corte. With its imposing citadel perched on top of grey granite rock and windy cobbled streets, Corte preserves its authentic feel while remaining lively and young due to its vast student population.
• Have a fun-filled day at the Village des Tortues at Moltifao where ancient species of tortoise have been preserved.

THINGS TO DO

• For a spectacular panorama extending from east to west climb Monte Cinto, Corsica’s highest mountain with an altitude of 2706m.
• Hike to a high-altitude Lac de Nino, a magical place where wild horses graze in an idyllic setting of lush green pozzines with the backdrop of snowy peaks.
• Experience snowshoe trekking in the alpine scenery of the beautiful Asco Valley.
• Enjoy an invigorating hike to mountain lakes Melo and Capitello accessible from the Restonica Valley.
• Refresh yourself swimming in emerald-green pools of the Restonica River meandering through dense Laricio pine forests with steep granite peaks guarding the valley.
• Don’t miss a thrilling scenic drive in the wild and rocky Gorge Scala di Santa Regina in the Niolo region.
• Taste local specialties- strong ewe’s cheese produced by Corsican shepherds, AOC honey from Ascu, and freshly caught river trout.
• Get your adrenaline top up at Corsica’s most exciting Via Ferrata ‘A Manicella’ in the Asco Valley.
• Follow the medieval mule track at the Tavignano Valley, Corsica’s deepest and the most exciting gorge, accessible from Corte.
• The famous long-distance trail GR20 crosses Corsica diagonally from north to south challenging the fittest and bravest to conquer the terrain.

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