Corsica: All Inclusive

Corsica has literally hundreds of beaches, probably the best in France and several among the best to be found anywhere in the world. Palombagia, Saint Giulia, Calvi, Loto, Saleccia and Saint Restitude beaches are among the beaches that continually get rave reviews. Loto and Saleccia beaches are great if you are looking for seclusion and peace as these beaches are accessed by boat. North of Calvi there are a string of numerous beaches so if one doesn’t suit just walk onto the next beach. All of the beaches in Corsica are clean and the waters are crystal clear and warm during the summer months. If you are holidaying with children you may want to find out which of the hundreds of beaches have life guards. Twenty five of the numerous beaches currently have life guards in Corsica. The coastline of Corsica provides ideal conditions for diving and windsurfing amongst other water sports because of the clean waters and Mediterranean temperatures. The beaches in Corsica are rated very highly and because of this is one of the prominent reasons why Corsica attracts visitors worldwide.

There are some beautiful campsites in Corsica which means that you can enjoy the beautiful island but on a budget. Corsica is perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors and prefer a taste of the simple life. One campsite is ‘U Monte Cintu’ in Lozzi which is in the central area of the island. Here you will be in the heart of the stunning countryside with incredible sea and mountain views to enjoy. Staying at the site will cost around 5 Euros a night for adults and you will need to pay extra for things like electricity and car parking. Another camp site is ‘Camp La Pinede’ which offer chalet and mobile home accommodation. This site is in the centre of a one of Corsica’s many pinewood forests. They have great facilities including an onsite disco, riding area, children’s area and volley ball court. Here expect to pay around 10 Euros a night in peak season. Peak season is recognized as July through to the end of August. Most campsites have supermarkets and good shower facilities as well. Campsites tend to be in more rural areas so it’s great if you can hire a car or bike in order to get about.

In the way of a typical city break with bustling streets and endless amounts of varying entertainment Corsica doesn’t deliver. But what it doesn’t deliver in thousands of attractions and venues it delivers in scenery, character, culture and sun, sea and sand. Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, may be small but it packs quite a punch. With architecture taken from the Genoese, palm trees from North Africa and tasty local, traditional and fresh foods, this picturesque city on the west of the island certainly makes the most of its central Mediterranean location. For history and culture lovers pay a visit to the vast Maison Bonaparte where Napoleon was born. Also, wander around the old town and you’ll come across plenty of statues and monuments to Corsica’s most famous son. Another cultural centrepiece, Musée Fesch, displays works from Corsica’s Italian neighbours with canvases by Raphael, Titian, and Botticelli. Ajaccio has a great atmosphere with tables spilling out on to the waterside marina as fishermen bring in the day's catch. The island’s farmers keep restaurant well stocked with local foods such as sausages and olives. And if the city of Ajaccio gets too small hire a car and explore the rest of the beautiful island.

Corsica is a popular stop off for Mediterranean cruises. Unfortunately most cruises only stop off in Ajaccio, the capital, for a day. There are also regular sea lines that serve Ajaccio from France [Marseilles, Nices, Toulon] and from Italy [Genoa]. If staying on the island of Corsica there are a few options in terms of boat travel around the island. One very popular boat trip from Ajaccio is to the Isles Sanguinaires. The boat trips hug the steep cliffs and will take you through the most picturesque passages. This is a great way to see the most beautiful views of Corsica's west coast, from the extreme south and the cliffs of Bonifacio, to the Scandola Nature Reserve just outside Balagne and Calvi. The dolphins often lead the way when boating around the coast of Corsica so this is brilliant trip for people of all ages.

Corsica is brimming with culture. Their history is steeped in the arrival of many different cultures from across the Mediterranean to their island over the past few thousand years. The remains of Greek and Roamn cultures are still evident in Corsica on various parts of the island. There are fortresses and old monasteries to visit and the old villages still hold traditional values and the Corsican’s are very proud and protective or their island and history. The capital of Ajaccio is a good place to start for the culture, arts and history lovers. Pay a visit to the vast Maison Bonaparte where Napoleon was born. Also, wander around the old town and you’ll come across plenty of statues and monuments commemorating Corsica’s most famous son. Another cultural centrepiece, Musée Fesch, displays works from Corsica’s Italian neighbours with canvases by Raphael, Titian, and Botticelli. Corsica is also developing a modern craft industry reviving the traditional techniques. Some exceptional craftsmen make beautiful objects in alder, olive, beech or in briar, particularly pipes, toys, board games, sculptures and decorations. Corsican knives are very much sought after, in olive wood, beech or in oak with steel blades. This is probably the nicest and the most authentic object to take home as a souvenir of Corsica. The real Corsican knife is the shepherd’s knife which is called a "curnicciolu". Pottery is also common with handmade ceramics, porcelain and earthenware in radiant colours and which are decorated by using traditional techniques.

Corsica is a beautiful island and its main pull for visitors is the untouched and undeveloped nature of the island. However, Corsicans have tried to accommodate for those who are physically disabled in order to help everyone enjoy what Corsica has to offer. Many of the hotels, restaurants and resorts in Corsica have special adjustments for disabled tourists. In most of the Corsican parks steep areas are difficult to maneuver around so they have made efforts to make easier access routes that are suitable for those who use wheelchairs even without any assistance. Moreover in restaurants and hotels, the sinks are placed in such a height that can be used by wheelchair users. In the more modern hotels and lodges the kitchen and toilets are also designed with wheelchair users in mind. Although all of the hotels and restaurants are not built with so much detailed planning, Corsica still is a very welcoming place for disabled visitors and they take as much care as possible to ensure that there visitors are enjoying their trip.

Corsica is a low-stress destination if you are travelling with children. With a flight time of less than two hours and good weather lasting from May until October, there are many reasons why Corsica is great for families. The beaches in Corsica are very attractive with hundreds to choose from. The fine white sands and warm, crystal clear waters are great for families. Twenty five of Corsica’s beaches have life guards so it may be good to get a beach guide. The wide variety of scenery, from deserted, as well as bustling, beaches to mountain villages and forests, makes the island appealing to all ages. It’s a good idea to hire a car as public transport isn’t too frequent and it will make life a lot easier. The roads in Corsica are often better than those in the UK. You will be able to pack in a variety of land and water activities in Corsica. From snorkelling in the warm waters to cycle rides and exploring the nature reserves Corsica has lots to offer. On a drive or train ride up to the mountains you will come across the island’s wild cows, sheep, goats and even wild boar. Although hotels in Corsica always welcome children, the majority of families opt for self-catering because of space and flexibility. Private villas offer plenty of space for families to relax, and many villas have pools. Note that some hotels will charge for a cot. Babysitting in hotels is quite rare so if you do want this option check before booking. Eating out with the family in Corsica is can be a great experience. To keep costs down you will see well priced set menus where children are very positively welcomed. Corsicans love children, and while eating out isn't cheap, a good children's menu is no more expensive than in the UK. As Corsica is closely linked with Italy there’ll be good pizzas and pasta dishes on the menu as well as Steak Haché (Burger Steak).

Hen holidays in Corsica will provide you with a quiet and cultural hen experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities such as diving, snorkelling, and sailing, windsurfing, cycling and walking. If you want a party filled hen holiday Corsica probably isn’t the best choice but the island does have some great eateries and small bars. If you want a relaxing hen holiday to top up your tan on stunning beaches and see some of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe then Corsica is perfect. Holiday villas sleeping up to 10 people can be found on various regions of the island with their own pool and fantastic views. For a girly holiday that doesn’t leave you with a hangover and lack of sleep Corsica is a beautiful option.

Stag holidays in Corsica will be a fairly quiet affair but if this is what you require then there’s not many places more beautiful than Corsica. Corsica has great activities for groups of guys such as golfing, diving, sailing, cycling and fishing. The 18 hole course in Corsica is located on a breathtaking site at the southern tip of Corsica overlooking the Mediterranean. The golf course is the set in an attractive residential and resort community, which features sleek, modern glass and wood villas. The course is recognised as one of Europe's best golf courses, this 18-hole course really does have something special to offer with its scenic views. This course regularly gets in to the top 100 of Golf World's best courses. There are good restaurants on the island and stunning landscapes to explore. However, if you are looking to go out clubbing you will struggle to find many places.

Corsica has been the island of choice for many of the world's rich and famous couples. Prince Rainier of Monaco brought his bride, Princess Grace, to Calvi for their honeymoon as did Richard Burton when he married Elizabeth Taylor. With a Sunday departure from the UK, Corsica is an beautiful and ideal destination for a honeymoon holiday. Some holiday companies will have offers to upgrade your villa, apartment or holiday accommodation so you can have a romantic honeymoon package. For quiet locations to and a romantic retreat there are stunning hillside locations. The views all over the island of Corsica are breath taking whether you’re looking out over bays, mountains or rugged coastlines. There are quiet, secluded beaches to soak up the sun and bathe in the warm Mediterranean waters. There are great towns and villages to wander around and beautiful restaurants offering traditional Corsican food. If you get tired of relaxing there are plenty of activities to get stuck in to. The waters of Corsica are perfect for diving because of the clear waters and incredible under water landscape. Windsurfing is popular in the south because of the winds and cycling is a great way to explore the island.

Corsica is a fantastic holiday destination for couples. Corsica has beautiful, picturesque locations, stunning beaches and characteristic villages. There are hundreds of options when it comes to accommodation. Studios are a great idea for couples as well as villas, apartments, hotels and bed and breakfasts. For those that love the outdoors there are also campsites in the more rural areas. Bastia is a great place to stay for good local restaurants. The harbour is the 'in' place to spend your evenings, after a nice meal the Quai des Martyrs de la Liberation is a great place to have a nice stroll and see the best views of the harbour. There are some great beaches in the area as well. Corsica has a deep culture that the islanders are very proud of and Porto-vecchio is a great place to get involved in this. It is largely the renowned beaches and coastline to the south of the town that are the big attraction, but the town itself also merits investigation. The marina is very attractive, with lovely cafes and restaurants overlooking the harbour, and the old town next to the Place de la Republique has some beautiful ancient buildings. During the summer evenings especially, the streets of the old town come to life with music and entertainment and it’s here that you’ll feel the Italian influence the most. There are some fun activities to get involved in also such as cycling, windsurfing, snorkelling and visiting the roman and Greek ruins on the island. There is a brilliant train experience to be had on the Trinicellu, or ‘Little Train’. This is a narrow gauge railway that runs along the coast between Calvi and Bastia. The journey takes about 50 minutes between Calvi and Ile Rousse, the two main resorts in the Balagne, and is an experience not to be missed. The service also runs between Ponte Lecchia and Ajaccio. This route passes through some of the most incredible scenery on the island. The limited schedule means that it's not practical to do a round trip in a day. However, a great thing to do as a couple is to stay overnight in Bastia or Ajaccio. The area between Corndte and Bocognano is regarded as one of the most impressive sections on the railway, Corte and Bocognano. The route ranks as one of the most scenic railways in the world. Corsica is a beautiful island to explore with your partner and you will find some of the most beautiful places in Europe on this island as well as beautiful places to stay.

If you have a passion for golf then on the island of Corsica the spectacular Golf de Spérone is a must. The course is located on a breathtaking site at the southern tip of Corsica overlooking the Mediterranean. The golf course is the centrepiece of an attractive residential and resort community, which features sleek, modern glass and wood villas. The surrounding area is the medieval fortress town of Bonifacio. Recognised as one of Europe's best golf courses, this 18-hole course really does have something special to offer with its scenic views. This course regularly gets in to the top 100 of Golf World's best. The course combines 12 inland holes with gorse and heather with six stunning holes along the coast and seaside cliffs. This is a spectacular setting to enjoy the game. From the course it’s possible to see glittering views of the Mediterranean, the Lavezzi Islands and even the distant peaks of Sardinia. Spérone is a test for the best golfers with its wide fairways and the most challenging section of the course is when playing off the back of the hilly areas or when the wind blows. If your handicap is not yet single figures, the course owners suggest that you play off the forward tees and simply admire the design and scenery. Golf lessons are available, equipment can be rented and the Spérone hilltop clubhouse is also reputed for being a great pre or post game treat. Corsica has only one 18 hole course but there are 9-hole golf courses, and Golf de Spérone can be perfectly combined with another 18 hole at the Pevero Golf Club inSardinia. Situated on the Costa Smeralda, at the northern tip of the island, Pevero is a short ferry crossing across the Bonifacio Strait which separates Corsica from Sardinia. Golfing in Corsica can be combined with other sports such as diving, snorkelling, cycling or tennis. Or if golf is strenuous enough simply enjoy the stunning beaches and countryside.

Corsica is a great island for a sailing adventure and to sail along the beautiful and untouched coastline is a popular activity. The panorama of Corsica is stunning and dramatic and is best appreciated from the waters. There are secluded bays, hidden coves and stunning rock coastlines. Boat hire and sailing trips are available from a number of locations around the coast of Corsica. One very popular boat trip sets sail from Ajaccio to the Isles Sanguinaires. Also not to miss is the illustrious prehistoric site at Filitosa, 40 kilometres south of Ajaccio. A boat trip as a passenger is a relaxing introduction to the best of the coastline. Pleasure boats that operate as ferries depart from St Florent to the amazing beaches of the Désert des Agriates and glass-bottomed boats run from Porto and Calvi to the Scandola marine nature reserve. The reserve is very difficult to get to from land and at the reserve you will get to see some great land and marine nature. The constant presence of the wind attracts windsurfers to Corsica, and the strong winds around the straits of Bonifacio are some of the best in the Mediterranean for expert windsurfing. The larger bays in the west and southeast of Corsica are the main centres for windsurfing as well as dinghy or small catamaran sailing. You can usually hire equipment, from an hour upwards, from fully licensed sailing clubs and many centres offer tuition. Please be aware that without the appropriate licence, you will only be able to rent a motorboat with an engine up to 6cv.

The clean waters of Corsica are due to the virtual absence of pollution. Corsica's coastal waters rank among the cleanest and clearest in the Mediterranean. For divers, the marine landscape mirrors the island's mountainous interior, with sheer drops and rock formations as well as a seabed rich in flora and fauna to explore. Corsica is a water lover's haven and is recognised as one of the best places to dive in Europe. The clear diving conditions and temperatures of the water easily pass for tropical. Corsica's inlets and beaches are plentiful and the island possesses 30 diving centres dotted along its 1000km coastline. Great diving in Corsica can be found all around the island. The Revellata peninsula near Calvi is where you can dive to the wreck of a WWII bomber. There is a marine reserve at Bonifacio and the 'cathédrales' off the coast at Porto Pollo in the Valinco are another great site. The spectacularly rugged landscape on the dry side of the shoreline continues underwater in the form of yet more mountains and canyons, sharp peaks and rocky masses. Underwater there are incredible carpets of yellow flowering anemone, red coral and gorgonian. Underwater inhabitants on the island include grouper, brown meagre and numerous other species and creatures. There are also a number of easily accessible wrecks to explore. Corsica's superb underwater kingdom has been impressively well preserved, thanks to the careful management of two internationally renowned marine nature reserves.

Hiking is one of the main attractions of the island Corsica. For serious hikers the GR20 is a must. This is possible from June to September. The hike crosses Corsica from northwest to southeast. It is 170 kilometres long with an average altitude of between 1000m and 2000m. The hike starts in Calenzana in the Balagne region and finishes in Conca near Porto Vecchio. The path follows the mountain ridge that cuts across Corsica and attracts around 10,000 hiking enthusiasts every year. This renowned trail has a route through a diverse array of landscape including forests, granite moonscapes, interesting craters, glacial lakes, torrents, peat bogs, maquis and snow-capped peaks. For hikers this experience is not to be missed.

However, people of all fitness levels can njoy the stunning scenery of Corsica and there are numerous shorter options available all across the island. Whether you wish to make your own tracks and go at your own pace, or go as part of a group, there are plenty of hiking companies that can assist with your plans. Corsica can be greatly appreciated on foot and there is plenty of variety to suit walkers and hikers of all levels. There are many footpaths that have been created to start from the sea and head to the mountains and those that travel coast to coast. The main walking season is between mid-May and early July and in September. Corsica’s landscape is varied and beautiful. Much of Corsica's forests have a whole host of fauna and flora, mountainous surroundings and wild coast are made more accessible courtesy of way marked trails, maintained by the Parc Regional. Some trails only take an hour, while others take several days so depending on your enthusiasm and fitness there are so many options. There are also plenty of comfortable dormitory accommodations exclusively to walkers. Walking maps are available in newsagents and local tourist offices.

Cycling is not an easy option in Corsica because of its mountainous terrain. However, if you love cycling and you’re an experienced cyclists you will find the challenging climbs and winding routes enjoyable. For those with determination and stamina, the views from some of the coastal roads and mountain tracks are breathtaking and well worth the hard work. Because of the rough terrain, mountain bikes are preferable over other types of bicycles Bikes can be hired in Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, Porto and Propriano. The best time for cycling is between May and June and September and October, when the weather is slightly cooler and the roads quieter. To escape the traffic completely there are numerous footpaths and woodland trails. There are also 1,900 kilometres of bridleways which will allow you to discover the island's natural beauty. The best of the bridleways are near Forêt de l'Ospédale, Bavella and the Coscione Plateau in the south. There is also a coastal path between St Florent and L'Ile Rousse which provides cyclists with views of some of the island's most outstanding scenery. The Mare e Monti Sud hiking path which runs between Propriano and Porticcio is one of the island's best opportunities for cycling as are the tracks of coastal Sartenais. To hire a bike you will be looking to pay anywhere between 50 to 150 Euros depending on the bike you require. Children’s bikes are usually around 30 to 40 Euros.

Shopping in Corsica tends to revolve more around food than clothes so if you want to do some retail I wouldn’t set your sights too high. Corsicans enjoy the simple life and high fashion is not a priority. So if you want a shopping holiday for traditional and local food and drink you will find great quality goods. But as far as fashion goes Corsica has few shops to keep you occupied. However, craft markets and local produce markets are brilliant in Corsica. Local specialities are available in the épiceries, boulangeries and charcuteries in Corsica and for the opportunity to find out more about the products visit the centres of production such as the alpine bergeries and vineyards. Corsica offers a great variety of gastronomic delights including maquis, which is flavoured honey, as well as a wide range of chestnut-based products, charcuterie and cheeses. The best place to sample and purchase local produce is at the lively colourful markets in the main towns. L’Ile Rousse has a local market every morning in the covered market place until 12pm. The stalls sell fresh fish and seafood, local charcuterie, cheeses, wines, honey and locally grown fruit and vegetables. In Propriano there is a daily indoor market every morning on Rue Pandolfi where you can buy locally grown fruit and vegetables. Ajaccio, the capital, is worth visiting for its daily market on Place César-Caminchi. This is one of the largest fresh produce markets on the island and although not cheap, the quality is undeniably great. You can get fresh cut flowers, fruit and vegetables and delicacies such as fig jam, honey, wild boar sauces and ewe's milk cheeses. In the market in Bastia you will come across stalls that sell vegetables, fish, Corsican specialities and even clothes. There are souvenir shops in the main resorts but if you are looking for something traditionally Corsican then head to the handicraft shops or craftsmen's workshops where efforts to revive the ancient arts of knife-making, pottery, stoneware, basket-weaving and glass-blowing are becoming more and more popular. The shops in the old towns haven’t changed much over the last hundred years as Corsicans love to keep their traditions and want to maintain their traditional way of life.

Corsica has around 7,000 hectares of land devoted to wine production and each year the island produces about 40 million litres of wine.. There are three main grape varieties on Corsica: ciaccarellu, niellucciu and vermentinu which give the wine from different regions of the island distinctive flavours. However, don’t expect too many wine tasting events on the island. To taste Corsica’s best head to the restaurants, bars and markets and enjoy the wine with your food.

Taking a holiday to Corsica over the winter period can provide visitors with a low-cost luxury holiday. Corsica is a popular Mediterranean destination all year round and it is a key feature in winter sun cruise holidays because of its warmer than average climate. Air fares to the island, like package cruise tours, are reasonably priced at this time of year. Corsica has even been named as one of the bargain holiday destinations for Brits looking for some winter sun over the Christmas and New Year period by the Western Mail from Cardiff. Corsica has also recently been named as one of the world's best islands by the National Geographic Traveller magazine. However, the island will be a lot quieter in the winter season as not many activity centres will be open so you will be left with fewer options in terms of walking and cycling tours. But you will be able to get maps from tourist information centres and newsagents so you can do your own planning for walks and cycle rides.