Beach Resort Guide
Corsica
Corsica Beach Resort Guide
Introduction
The fourth largest island in the Mediterranean, Corsica is famous for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. In addition to seeing the former abode of the military mastermind, any trip to this vine-clad island rewards visitors with sun-kissed beaches and rugged mountains, as well as verdant pastures and dense forest. At the height of summer, warm Mediterranean waters, balmy evenings and beaches, from which a host of watersports can be enjoyed, are the main attraction. Some of Europe's least polluted seas see scuba-divers make a beeline for the island, with adventure activities like rock climbing and canyoning satisfying adrenaline junkies.
Who goes there?
Corsica is popular with European holidaymakers from all walks of life, with accommodation options to suit all budgets from camping and bed and breakfast to luxury hotels. The island is also popular with French tourists. The birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte attracts those who want to combine a traditional sunshine holiday with more cerebral pursuits.
Where in the world?
A southern European island, Corsica is located around 170km (105 miles) south of France, 90km (56 miles) west of Italy and just 12km (7 miles) north of Sardinia. It is blessed with a mountainous interior and an indented coastline, which is kissed by clear and warm Mediterranean waters.
When to go?
June to September are the best months to visit Corsica for a beach holiday. At this time of year, daytime temperatures peak at around 28°C (82°F) and nights are pleasantly warm. The summer is also the driest season on the island. In July and August, Corsica is very busy with holidaymakers.
Beach
Corsica is blessed with everything from small rocky coves and beaches strewn with multi-coloured pebbles to those replete with fine white sand. Bustling resort beaches complete with watersport centres are balanced out by tranquil, almost deserted spots. Choosing where to soak up the sunshine, or where to take a dip in the bath-temperature waters is a matter of personal preference. Beaches consistently rated as some of the island's best (and some of the finest in Europe) include Barcaggio, Ostriconi, Palombaggia and Saint Giulia.
Beyond the beach
Visit the island's premier tourist town of Bonifacio, with its iconic citadel. Be sure to descend the 187 steps of the Escalier du Roi d'Aragon (King of Aragon Steps), which flow down the town's sheer limestone cliff face. For a truly mesmerising view of the historic settlement, take a boat cruise down the Strait of Bonifacio. Another spectacular cruise is an organised excursion from Porto or Calvi to the UNESCO World Heritage Reserve Naturelle de Scandola - an impressive porphyritic rock mass and a haven for seabirds, dolphins and seals.
Family fun
The combination of historic towns, first-class museums and sandy beaches means that Corsica has something for every family member. Children can throw themselves down the slides at the island's water parks and take part in many of the water and adventure sports on offer like sailing, rafting, horse riding and (depending on their age) diving, hiking and mountain biking. Many of the island's hotels also have families firmly in mind, with child-friendly restaurants, swimming pools, tennis courts and kids' clubs. Local restaurants are generally happy for children to dine with their parents.
Retail therapy
Souvenir shops and outlets selling Corsican handicrafts and island wine are commonplace in the resorts. Main towns like Bastia and L'lle Rousse have markets where you can pick up fresh produce and seafood. Ajaccio, the island's capital, has the biggest range of shops. Here it is possible to buy everything from cameras and organic food to outdoor clothing and children's toys. The small boutiques that line Rue Napoleon and its flea market are the highlights.
A night on the town
Corsica is not an island renowned for its thumping nightlife; instead, a night out tends to revolve around a good meal. Bars are on hand though for a quite pre- or post-dinner drink. One of the trendiest nightspots is Chez Tao (La Citadelle) (www.cheztao.com) in Calvi. Open until 0500, five days a week, this hip piano bar is the place to come and be cool. Even in Ajaccio, the nocturnal activities tend to be on the mellow side: La Boca Loca (Rue de la Porta) tempts with live music, tapas and cocktails.
Eating out
Corsicans love their food, so a good meal accompanied by a local wine tends to be the focal point of a night out. Its geographic location means that island cuisine blends French and Italian influences. With dining the main event when it comes to nightlife, standards in most restaurants are high. Corsican starters might take the form of cured meats, while desserts are often milk or cheese-based like Fiadone (cheese torte). Main courses make the most of local livestock like lamb, chicken and veal. If fish is your thing then langoustines, red mullet and sea bream are highly recommended.
Getting around
If you're not in a hurry, catching the bus can be a good option. Be warned, though, services are infrequent, slow and unreliable, with few buses running on Sundays or public holidays. Corsica has a narrow gauge railway, which runs between Bastia and Calvi via Ponte Leccia, with frequency depending on season. Taxis operate on the island and it is possible to hire cars, motorcycles and scooters.
Exploring further afield
Break away from the beaches and head to the inland town of Corte (situated approximately 40km (25 miles) east of Bastia). A 15th-century citadel lies at the heart of this charming old town, from where you can lap up dramatic views of the mountains and surrounding countryside. Learn about the island's rich culture and traditions at the Museum of Corsica, or while away the hours, hopping between the cafes that line Cours Paoli. Alternatively take advantage of its mountain locale and do some serious hiking.
Splashing out
Check into hotel Le Maquis (www.lemaquis.com). This small luxurious property is stunningly located on the Gulf of Ajaccio and backed by mountains. Swimming pools, tennis courts, attractive gardens, massages and a sandy beach are just some of the things to ease you through your stay. Watersports, boat cruises and 4-wheel drive tours can also be arranged. Fine food is served up from L'Arbousier restaurant, whose outdoor terrace makes the most of the hotel's romantic setting.
Flying in
Ajaccio Campo Del Oro Airport (AJA)
Bastia Poretta Airport (BIA)
Bastia Poretta Airport (BIA)
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