Corsica

Explore Corsica

Snow-capped Mount Cinto stands 2,700-metre-high, while the clear turquoise sea and white beaches are some of the cleanest and most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Ancient towns perch on hilltops and cling to seaside cliffs, and the memory of the island’s most famous son still inflames Corsican pride. Though politically a part of France, Corsica is its own country as regards landscapes, culture and history.

Getting here and around

Located in Ajaccio, the Napoleon Bonaparte Airport (yes, the Emperor of the French was actually Corsican) has direct flights to many European hubs. Bastia Airport, on the east coast of the island, has fewer connections, but it’s also an option. If you are coming by private jet, you can also fly into two smaller airports, Figari and Calvi. Prefer arriving by boat? There are ferries from France and Italy. Once you are in Corsica, you can get around on a bike, but only if you are in good shape — the island is all rocky hills, and cycling is demanding. If you are not in the mood for so much exertion, rent a car and drive yourself, or have a chauffeur do it. Helicopter flights are scenic, and a yacht charter is a must — the Corsican coastline is one of our top favourites.

Climate & seasons

As you probably expect, Corsica has a Mediterranean climate, which means summers are hot and winters are moderate, dry and clear. But there are variations in the microclimates. Due to different altitudes, the weather is not quite the same on the mountains, the valleys and the coastlines. Plus, the north is hotter than the south, and the east, wetter than the west. The peak tourist season is July and August, so if you want to avoid crowds, consider going in April, May, June, September or October. Some people feel 25°C is not really beach weather yet — but that’s for you to decide. Winter is an entirely different experience, with so much snow on the mountains that you can actually ski.

Where to go

There are only a few high-end hotels in Corsica — in this respect, the island is not a highly developed luxurious destination — and most of them are in and around the town of Porto Vecchio. So this is the base we recommend. From there, you can drive around and explore Corsica’s treasures. In the south, the town of Bonifacio perches on impressive seaside cliffs. Across all the island, ancient villages crown the hilltops — there are too many to mention, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. And everywhere, the coastline is remarkably beautiful.

What to do

Bask, swim and practice watersports in some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Take a scenic helicopter flight to admire the wild coastline and inland from above. If you are feeling active, challenge the rocky hills, and hike or bike up to mesmerizing viewpoints. Step on board a yacht, sail around white crags and discover hidden coves with crystalline water. Go canyoning and swimming in the island’s many rivers — there’s something magical about immersing yourself in the clear waters of a mountain stream, alone in nature. Eat at Michelin-starred restaurants, but discover also authentic Corsican dishes at local places. We can arrange for you to taste wine and meet the producers at local wineries — these are not as fancy as some maisons in Bordeaux and Burgundy, but they are truly Corsican. Speak with Corsicans and learn about their unique language and traditions. And of course, if you love history, follow in the footsteps of Napoleon, explore historical towns and visit the island’s museums.