Rippling with epic mountains covered in vivid green pine and chestnut forests, interspersed with fragrant maquis scrubland and fresh pastures, Corsica is nothing if not dramatic. Add those sunny, sandy beaches and a rich history that dates back some 3,000 years, and we have everything we need for a perfect, fun-filled vacation of intrigue and wonder.
Located approximately 250 kilometers off the southern coast of France, this Mediterranean destination is actually closer to Italy than it is to its parent state, yet it retains a very French charm. While the beaches are the main destination for most visitors, where they can enjoy windsurfing, swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, and sun bathing, many will want to head inland and explore the towns of Corsica, many of which are very attractive, where all that French culture and beautiful Mediterranean weather makes strolling and sightseeing a thoroughly enjoyable activity.
One of the things to love about Corsica is indeed its sunny climate. Corsica experiences hot and dry summers, and remarkably cool winters, making a visit appealing all year round. Summer months from July to August are the most popular times to visit, so planning and booking ahead during these times is essential.
Corsica is actually such a big place that one visit usually isn’t enough. One of the main attractions is Bonifacio, one of the oldest towns on the island, situated at its southern tip. Bonifacio has great views, wonderful dining, incredible architecture and charming cobblestone streets. The capital of Corsica, Ajaccio is also a must see destination. Here, travelers can find a rich selection of monuments, museums, beaches, shops, and great restaurants.
The best beaches in Corsica can be found around Calvi, which is the island’s most well-known seaside resort along its northern coast. Calvi holds quite a distinction in that it’s also the place where Christopher Columbus was born, something that attracts hundreds of curious visitors keen to learn more about the man who discovered the New World.
As a popular resort, Calvi’s beaches often get packed with tourists during the summer months, and things can get quite noisy at times. Luckily, Costa Serena, which is one of the most beautiful, secluded beaches of Corsica, isn’t so far away. With long sandy beaches, sparkling blue waters, very few tourists and absolutely no sign of touristic development, Costa Serena is the perfect place to get away from it all.
Major attractions: Calvi, Ajaccio, Bonifacio, Bastia, Costa Serena, Cargese, Porto-Vecchio, Santo Pietro di Tenda
Budget for one week: €1,000
Taxes and gratuity: Tipping is recommended
Official language: French
Area: 3,350 sq mi
Population: 302,000
Electricity:
- Voltage: 220-240 Volts (U.S./Canada are 110-120 Volts)
- Primary Socket Type: Europlug, Schuko
- Multi-voltage appliances (laptops, etc.): Plug adapter
- 110-120V electronics: Plug adapter + step-down transformer
- Hair dryers, curling irons, etc.: Plug adapter + voltage converter
Images courtesy: © Beboy - Fotolia.com, Jean-Pol GRANDMONT, Jean-Pol GRANDMONT
