Corsica
Destinations in Corsica
Attractions in Corsica
Discover the region
'Île de Beauté'
Corsica is surrounded by Italy to the east, Sardinia to the south and mainland France to the northwest. The fourth largest Mediterranean island fascinates with its high mountains, secluded bays, rugged cliffs and wide sandy beaches. The contrast between the lively tourist centres of Bastia and Ajaccio with their unique old towns and cultural treasures and the tranquillity of the mountains, up to 2000 m high, is what makes the island so appealing. It is often aptly called the 'Island of Beauty'.
Photo: Hendrik Cornelissen, unsplash.com
Across the island on foot
As Corsica is the most mountainous island in the Mediterranean, it is often called the 'mountains in the sea'. Over 70 peaks here are higher than 2000 m. Monte Cinto is the highest mountain in Corsica at 2,706 m.
Visitors young and old will find the right route on the island's 2000 km network of hiking trails. After all, Corsica has a lot in its repertoire: everything from day hikes to crossing the island to the famous GR20 long-distance hiking trail. If you're looking for a change from the beach or the city, you've come to the right place.
Scenic hiking trails cross the lonely mountain world. In the north of the island, for example, an easy hike leads to two peaks, the Cima a Forca and the Punta Liatoghju. From here you have a beautiful view of the sea and the sandy beach at the foot of Punta Liatoghju, where you can cool off in the water after your efforts.
But the south of Corsica is also worth a hike: from Bonifacio you hike to the lighthouse 5 km away on the rugged chalk cliffs at the southernmost tip of Corsica. From here you also have the best view of Sardinia, 12 km away.
Explore the island by bike
You can get around quickly on two wheels and visit many spots on the island in one day. Cyclists of all kinds get their money's worth on Corsica: along the coasts, through the dense pine forests or up the hills of the island - from easy to difficult, short to long: there is something for every cyclist.
The long-distance cycle route GT 20 leads from the north of the island to the south and can be mastered in 13 daily stages. The route is suitable for ambitious road cyclists, mountain bikers and e-bikers. For the latter, there are dedicated charging stations along the stages. This way, you can explore the whole diversity of the island at your own pace.
The GT 20 "Grande Traversée" is a cycle touring route of 600 km, 12 stages and 9500 metres of ascent, which crosses Corsica from north to south.
Fun in the water in Corsica
Varied bays and turquoise waters make the island a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Divers, surfers and water-skiers have almost unlimited possibilities. The west coast impresses with beautiful beaches and good wind conditions. There are some steep cliffs here, where caution is always advised.
In the interior, there are many rivers and mountain lakes to explore. The raging water makes its way through wild gorges and over large rocks - a real paradise for white-water sports enthusiasts.
Nothing stands in the way of a leisurely day with the whole family on one of the rivers. At many quiet spots, adventurous children climb around on the big rocks and discover all sorts of things. Later, both children and adults can cool off in the water pools.
Pack your swimming gear and take a big picnic basket full of delicious Corsican food with you and enjoy the wonderful sun on the waters in and around Corsica.
Sightseeing in and around Ajaccio
The capital Ajaccio is located on the west coast of Corsica. For those interested in history, a visit to Napoleon's birthplace on Letizia Square is unmissable. But also in the city itself you will discover numerous fountains, parks and monuments commemorating the former emperor.
While the city offers a lot of urban flair with its spacious boulevards and squares, as well as the numerous cafés and restaurants and cultural sights, you can experience unique natural beauty in the surroundings of Ajaccio with its coasts, forests and gorges.
The city's location on the slopes of the Gulf of Ajaccio offers a magnificent view of the small archipelago of Îles Sanguinaires. Four rugged little islands of dark red porphyry rock stand like sentinels at the entrance to the Gulf of Ajaccio. At dusk, their blood-red colour stands out even more and, with a bit of luck, you can see the sun disappear behind the archipelago.
Culture and cuisine
Corsica's unique cultural history is documented by the menhirs of Filitosa, relics of the megalithic culture dating back to 3000 BC. The historic old towns of Ajaccio, Bastia or Sartène with their monuments and lively markets invite culture enthusiasts to linger.
Numerous gourmet restaurants reflect the culinary richness of Corsica and make the island the top address for gourmets.