Corsica: visiting the island of beauty
The largest of the French islands is also the most beautiful. From the moment you arrive, you can’t help but be captivated by its stunning landscapes, rugged coasts, dramatic reliefs, and artistic cities: the perfect setting for an active holiday where cultural discoveries also have their place.
Arriving in Corsica: Ajaccio, Bonifacio, and Bastia
Most arrivals in Corsica are by plane, via Ajaccio’s terminal: emotions are guaranteed with one of Europe’s most spectacular runways, above a gulf with steep coasts. These first glimpses of the Isle of Beauty, through the airplane window, provide an excellent introduction for anyone wanting to visit Corsica. You can reach Ajaccio, with its old town, local market displaying Corsican sausages, hams, and cheeses, its promenades, and its art museum. Bastia offers another entry point to the island, usually by ferry from southern France or Italy. Alternatively, you might come from Sardinia to dock at the port of Bonifacio. In this case, you’ll have the opportunity to admire from the boat the eagle’s nest site of the citadel and the famous straits.
Visiting Corsica: the main routes
The best way to visit Corsica, whether inland or along the coast, is to rent a car. The winding roads, with their views of the coasts, the inland mountains, or the villages of Balagne, greatly contribute to the charm of a holiday in Corsica. From Bastia and its old town, set out to conquer the wild landscapes of Cap Corse or explore the Agriates desert. Continue to Calvi with its citadel before exploring the chestnut forests of Balagne, one of the island’s most authentic regions. Do not miss Corte, the homeland of Corsican culture, the austere landscapes of Monte Cinto, or the Bavella needles.
Active and cultural holidays in Corsica
Thrill-seekers will be delighted by the deep tones of Corsican music. You don’t need to be a fan of traditional music to be moved by this singing, which you might hear at a festival or during the Holy Week celebrations. But Corsica is above all a paradise for hikers with the mythical GR 20 trail crossing it from north to south. The Restonica gorges, the Bavella needles, or the Vizzavona forest offer other exceptional routes. Another way to visit Corsica, in short. Nautical enthusiasts will be thrilled with some of the world’s most beautiful coasts, including the Gulf of Girolata and the Calanques of Piana. Those who come to enjoy the delights of the sea will find happiness at Ile Rousse in the Gulf of Propriano or Porto Vecchio and its surroundings, particularly the superb beach of Palombaggia.
