CorsicaThe idyllic island in the Mediterranean Sea is particularly popular with holidaymakers who want to experience something different. Because between snow-white sandy beaches and secluded bays, artistic rock formations and majestic mountains stand out. In a survey of the top ten destinations in Europe, Falstaff TRAVEL readers voted Corsica a well-deserved second place. Quaint harbour towns alternate with national parks and breathtakingly beautiful hiking routes.

Currently, entry is possible with a negative PCR test.

Between relaxation and active holidays: this is the diversity of Corsica

Those who have already been to Corsica know that the landscape can change within seconds. Just a moment ago, you were driving along the glittering coast of the Mediterranean Sea and now you are in a brilliant mountain world that offers an impressive panoramic view of the island. On Corsica, people looking for relaxation as well as sportsmen will find the right offer to enjoy their holidays. For in addition to miles of sandy beaches, countless villages and landscapes with unique flair await in the interior. The island is famous, among other things, for the former French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, who was born in 1769 in Ajaccio, the capital of the Corse region. The largest city on the island is located on the west coast and exudes an urban ambience with its large squares, long boulevards and a distinct cultural scene.

On the southern tip of the island, just 15 kilometres from Sardinia, is the beautiful town of Bonifacio. It is known for its medieval old town, which sits 70 meters above the island on white limestone rocks. If you are lucky with the weather, you can even see all the way to Sardinia from the top. And the harbour town, which lies in the middle of a charming bay, is also particularly worth seeing.

We continue along the coast towards the east. Because Porto-Vecchio is waiting there. The region is so popular not only because of the numerous secluded bays, small shops and cafes, but also because of the breathtakingly beautiful sandy beaches. The most famous is Palombaggia beach, whose bay is surrounded by red rocks and lined with fragrant pine forests.

The other end of the island also has a region worth seeing: Cap Corse - also called the "index finger of Corsica". The beautiful peninsula in the north consists of idyllic villages, the famous Genoese towers and dream beaches interspersed with imposing cliffs. The popular harbour town Bastia is also located in Cap Corse. This is, just like Ajaccio, an important economic centre of the island. And also the small Saint Florent - a cute little harbour town, which is often called the Corsican St. Tropez, can be found in the north.

When you travel to Corsica, you should definitely also make a stop in the port city of Calvi. Even from a distance you can see the landmark, a citadel from the 15th century, as it rises out of the sea. But also the impressive fortress walls, as well as the Corsican coastal landscape are true highlights. A five-kilometre-long sandy beach and a quaint old town make the French charm perfect.

The interior of the island is perfect for those who want an active holiday. Hiking trails as far as the eye can see are lined with rosemary and thyme. The town of Corte, in the heart of Corsica, is also a popular starting point for adventurous explorations. The landscape consists of crystal clear mountain lakes, rivers, lush forests and the majestic high mountains. A real highlight are also the famous rock formations of the Calanche. The wild rocks shine in shades of red and brown and are the perfect photo motif to remember this amazing place forever.

Top addresses in Corsica

Corsica is where culinary highlights meet scenic sensations. These addresses are not to be missed.

Restaurant Le Pirate

Le port, 20222 Erbalunga, France
restaurantlepirate.com

In the north of the island, near Bastia, you'll find a true gourmet gem. The restaurant is located directly in a picturesque harbor and combines unusual flavors to a culinary moment of pleasure. The kitchen focuses on unique fish specialties and uses only products from the region.

Monte Cinto

corsica.com

A trip to the highest peak of the island is also worthwhile. Monte Cinto is 2706 metres high and, on a clear day, offers a spectacular view over the east and west coast of the island. The "king of the Corsican mountains" is especially popular with hikers who enjoy the diverse nature.

Corsica Regional Nature Park

34 Cours Paoli, 20250 Corte, France
pnr.corsica

The Regional Natural Park of Corsica covers about 350,000 hectares and is located inland, just near Corte. With its size, it covers about 40 % of the total island area and is home to over 800 different animal and plant species. Such as the famous Corsican wild boars, which already convinced the Gaul Obelix. The wild animals are mainly visible in October and November, when they go in search of chestnuts.

3 of the most beautiful hotels in Corsica

The French island has numerous luxury hotels to offer. We have narrowed down the selection for you to three.

Aethos Corsica

Lieu Dit Paganacce, 20232 Oletta, France
Tel: +33 4 95 38 39 39
aethoshotels.com

For the new Aethos Corsica, the traditional hotel "U Palazzu Serenu", which dates back to the 17th century, has been reinterpreted - without losing the prestigious heritage and special charm of the historic building. The nine suites are furnished with the utmost care and lovingly decorated with hand-picked original works of art. The view from the suites is of the sea and the northern bay of Saint Florent, the village of Oletta or the impressive mountains, depending on the location. The garden with a 20-metre pool forms the heart of the complex.

Hôtel U Capu Biancu

Lieu dit ricetti Domaine de Pozzoniello, 20169 Bonifacio, France
Tel: +33 4 95 73 05 58
ucapubiancu.com.

The hotel at the southern tip of Corsica convinces with a charming ambience and a dreamlike view of the sea. In addition to the private sandy beach, the 50,000-square-metre garden is also a highlight where you can relax perfectly. And also the swimming pool, as well as the spacious sun terrace form an oasis of tranquility. The hotel is also a great role model in terms of sustainability; because a resource-saving economy and fair treatment are on the daily program.

La Villa Calvi

Chemin Notre Dame de la Serra, 20260 Calvi, France
Tel: +33 4 95 65 10 10
hotel-lavilla.com

In beautiful Calvi, this exclusive hotel invites its guests to enjoy the dreamlike panoramic view and the stylish ambience. The rooms exude a very special charm, combining an exclusive interior with French flair. The quiet location promises privacy at the highest level, while enjoying the view of the turquoise sea of Calvi Bay, as well as the impressive citadel.

Picture Credits: Aethos Corsica, Hôtel U Capu Biancu, La Villa Calvi, Siggy Nowak / Pixabay, sylviacopol0 / Pixabay, Michel Bertolotti / Pixabay, J / Pixabay, Lars Nissen / Pixabay, Peter H on Pixabay, Fran. Wa. / Pixabay, Holger Gottschalk / Pixabay, David Mark / Pixabay, Kevin Schmid / Pixabay, Manosainz /Pixabay, Hendrik Cornelissen / Unsplash, Dusan Veverkolog / Unsplash