Corsica is an island of many scenic contrasts, one that offers something new even to the experienced traveller who believes they have seen it all. Sprawling forests, imposing mountains, glistening beaches and busy townships seamlessly meld to make Corsica a Mediterranean destination with something for everyone.
An island shaped by different cultures
A French island closer in distance to Italy than France, Corsica is a territory bathed in history, with the two countries disputing its sovereignty over the centuries. Once Italian, now French, but with pockets of the population wanting independence from either, Corsica is a veritable melting pot of all threes' cultures, as can be seen as the mixture of Italian cafes, French museums – even some road signs are in three different languages. One thing that the island doesn't dispute, however, is its natural beauty.
Mountains of scenery
The mountains of Corsica have attracted walkers for years, which may be down to the fact that there are routes across them for ramblers of all fitness levels and experience, from peaceful strolls to full-on rock climbing, river-hopping adventures. Trails through the mountains, mainly in the north of the island, are well marked and the Sea and Mountains walk showcases some of the most sumptuous scenery Corsica has to offer. Perhaps being the finest all-around walk on the island, as well as the of the least-demanding, you'll traverse the jaw-dropping Tavignano Gorge over a rickety bridge, head to the coastline to visit the historic Revellata lighthouse, before moving back inland across the Corsican scrub to the rustic Notre Dame de la Serra.
Peaches of beaches
The Desert des de Agriates area of Corsica is a haven of unspoiled, secluded beaches, many of which are reachable only by boat. The finest example of these is the Plage de Seleccia – charter a vessel from the marina at St. Florent to reach the shimmering white sands of the beach, complemented by an azure sea of perfect clarity. Other nearby beaches include the Plage De Loto, an hour's walk along the coast from Seleccia. Both beaches, due to their remote location, have little in the way of amenities, so bring your own refreshments, sun protection and any other supplies you feel you may need.
Citadel
The man-made structures of Corsica are no less impressive than their natural counterparts. The citadel at the Corsican town of Calvi is a 13th century monument built under Italian rule, sitting atop a grassy hill that overlooks a resplendent bay and the distant Balagne mountains. The walk to the ancient building is no less charming, through winding, cobbled pathways and alleyways as old as the citadel itself.
By visiting Corsica, you'll experience one of the Mediterranean's most fascinating islands – a settlement shaped by its rich, multicultural history.
