Islands

Corsica appears as a stunning mountain rising out of the sea that captivates visitors long before they set foot on the island. Because of its high elevations and spectacular scenery, Corsica attracts a large number of hikers and rock climbers every year and it is one of Europe’s top hiking destinations. But you don’t need to be a mountain climber to enjoy the pleasures of this Mediterranean island.

The following are top seven tourist attractions in Corsica.

Calvi

Calvi

This popular seaside resort is located on Corsica’s northern coast just 180km south of the French Riviera, or seven hours from Nice by ferry. According to local legend, Calvi is also the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Calvi offers a busy nightlife, a palm-shaded promenade lined with restaurants and cafés, fine beaches and a convenient base for exploring the hillside towns of La Balagne and the Scandola Nature Reserve.

Sant’Antonino

Panoramic view from Sant’Antonino

Continuing along Corsica’s northern coast is the seaside village of Algajola, and from there the road zig zags up the mountains to Sant’Antonino, an eagle’s nest perched on a rocky hilltop that overlooks the ocean and the Balagne region, a place once known as the “Garden of Corsica” for its olive trees, fruit orchards and fertile soil. Sant’Antonino is a unique maze of hidden alleys and cobbled streets with 360 degrees views of the sea and the spacious valleys below. This village is perfect for a day trip and only about 15 minutes from Calvi by car.

Scandola Nature Reserve and Girolata

Girolata © Rune Johnsson

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Scandola Nature Reserve is located on the Gulf of Porto and Girolata, on the north western coast of Corsica, and accessible only by boat. The striking rock formations in Scandola were carved out by volcanic activity, wind and sea. This area is notorious for its dramatic cliffs, jagged rocks, grottos and coves.

One of the landmarks on the reserve is Girolata, an isolated hamlet with about two dozen permanent residents, a Genoese tower and a small fortress. From June to September there are daily boat tours to Scandola and Girolata leaving from Ajaccio, Cargèse, Porto and Calvi.

Costa Serena

Secluded beach in the Costa Serena

The oriental coast, located between Bastia and Porto-Vecchio, is famous for its almost deserted long sandy beaches, acres of farmland, fantastic holiday villages and campsites. Visitors can explore the Bavella Mountains from Solenzara or survey ancient Roman ruins in the town of Aleria and then drive to the interior of the island along the Tavignano River to Corte.

Corte and the Restonica Valley

Early morning hike on the Restonica Valley

The old town of Corte, located in the heart of Corsica, offers a wide range of accommodations, shops and restaurants. The citadel of Corte houses a museum of Corsican history and provides panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. The town is strategically located between the Restonica and the Tavignano rivers which flow alongside many hiking trails.

The Restonica Valley is an inland paradise with plenty to do and see for the whole family and conveniently located just a few minutes by car from Corte. Visitors will find numerous places to walk, picnic or bathe in one of the many pools and streams fed by its clean, rushing waters.

Ajaccio

Place Foch in Ajaccio

Corsica’s capital has something for everyone: outdoor cafés, restaurants, bakeries, gourmet shops, museums, numerous monuments and beautiful beaches.

The Ajaccio fresh market opens daily and is a popular gathering place for the locals. Whether shopping for food or souvenirs, the stores in Ajaccio offer some of the best deals on the island. Ajaccio is also a starting point for boat excursions to Scandola.

Bonifacio

Bonifacio

The old town of Bonifacio, located on the southernmost tip of Corsica, has a lively marina that attracts luxury yachts, sailboats and small fishing boats.

Visitors will find spectacular views along the coast, plenty of opportunities for boating and windsurfing, fine dining and unique architecture along cobbled streets, in an area small enough to be explored on foot. The island of Sardinia is only an hour away by ferry from Bonifacio.

Not to miss: A one hour boat trip to the marine caves and inlets around Bonifacio.

This guest post was written by Liz Palazzi. Liz is the editor of Corsica Journeys, a travel blog about her favorite island filled with tips and insights for independent and frugal travelers.

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