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Often referred to as ‘Ile de Beauté’; the island of beauty, by the French, Corsica is a stunning island full of surprises. Rocky and mountainous by reputation, it is also gloriously green, with two-thirds of this other ‘emerald isle’ given to national parks. So, as you might imagine, walking is a favourite pastime here, from relaxing strolls for nature lovers to one of Europe’s most difficult but spectacular walks, where awesome views will strike you dumb (but not literally), all on the doorstep of your fabulous Corsican campsite. Athough officially a region of France, Corsica has an extraordinary and carefully preserved history, and its own language and culture. Whilst camping in Corsica, don’t miss a visit to Ajaccio, the cosmopolitan capital, lined with designer shops and restaurants galore, it is also home to the birthplace of Napolean – now a museum, and the Musée Fesch, which has the largest Italian art collection outside of the Louvre.
Corsican? Course I can… The Corsican’s approach to looking after their island’s natural resources ensures a pristine environment for exploring. The landscape’s flora, fauna and forests will delight your senses. The snow-capped peaks in Spring will melt your heart. And away from Mother Nature you can actively participate in some serious sunbathing, sightseeing, shopping and serendipity.
Officially a region of France, Corsica has its own carefully preserved history and culture. From coastal citadels to wonderful Baroque churches and the mighty Menhirs, made comically famous by Asterisk and Obelisk. Yes, the Romans came here too.
The island’s cuisine is as tasteful as its history. Typical local delicacies are salamis and cheeses, but the locals go nuts for Prisuttu, a cured ham from pigs fed on acorns and chestnuts. Corsican wines are excellent when enjoyed young, but there’s no age limit to who should imbibe.
Corsica’s cosmopolitan capital has designer shops and restaurants galore. Visit the house where Napoleon was born, now a museum. And after Bonaparte, there’s proper art at Museum Fesch with the largest Italian art collection outside of the Louvre.
One of Corsica’s most chic locations, the old town dates back to the 9th century, with winding streets and historic buildings. In contrast, there’s a busy marina with luxury yachts for you to gnash your teeth at and sophisticated bars to help you calm down.
An important prehistoric site where excavations have unearthed Bronze Age, Roman and Neolithic artefacts. The menhirs, with carved human faces, armour and weapons, no longer stand but have been broken up and replaced by circular stone structures know as torri.
A picturesque town with crystal clear turquoise waters and white sands, popular for its wealth of outdoor activities including hiking, quad biking and rock climbing. After all that activity, you’ll be grateful for its many chic bars and restaurants.
Much of Corsica is a protected area, and Scandola Nature Reserve forms part of this. Secluded coves, sandy beaches, red cliffs and dramatic headlands make up breathtaking sites whether visited on land or viewed from a boat.
