Locations en Corse

Palombaggia and Santa Giulia in the south, horseshoe-shaped Rondinara, Saleccia reachable by boat from Saint-Florent, and Loto in the Désert des Agriates are among the finest beaches in the Mediterranean. The water is crystal-clear turquoise and the seabed is pristine. Plan ahead — car parks fill up by 9am in July and August.

Absolutely. The old town perched on 70-metre limestone cliffs above the Strait of Bonifacio is one of the most dramatic sights in France. The medieval lanes, the King of Aragon's staircase carved into the rock, and views across to Sardinia create an incomparable setting. Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Yes, the Scandola Reserve — UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983 — is accessible only by boat from Porto or Calvi (half-day excursions). This marine and terrestrial reserve of red granite hosts exceptional underwater life (grouper, corb, dolphins) and osprey colonies. Combining the Calanques de Piana, the roadless village of Girolata, and Scandola in a single boat trip makes for one of the most beautiful excursions in the Mediterranean.

The Republic of Genoa controlled Corsica for over three centuries (1284-1768), leaving behind a network of coastal watchtowers — more than 85 survive today — plus citadels at Calvi, Bastia, and Bonifacio. These fortifications defended the island against Barbary raids. Their distinctive round silhouette has become an emblem of the Corsican coastline.

Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Ajaccio on 15 August 1769, a year after Corsica was ceded to France by Genoa. The city celebrates him fervently: his birthplace is open to visitors, the Fesch Museum houses one of France's largest Italian painting collections, and statues mark every corner. Each 15 August, Napoleonic festivals fill the streets with costumed historical re-enactments.

The Musée de la Corse, housed in the citadel of Corte — former capital of the independent Corsican Republic under Pascal Paoli (1755-1769) — is the reference museum for the island's history, ethnography, and identity. It traces Paoli's brief democratic experiment (one of history's earliest modern constitutions), Corsican resistance, pastoral traditions, and the Corsican language. The citadel itself, perched on a rocky spur, commands sweeping views over the Restonica gorge.

The GR20 is one of Europe's most demanding long-distance trails, crossing Corsica from north (Calenzana) to south (Conca) over 16 stages of ridges and glacial lakes. It is strictly for experienced hikers. From a coastal campsite, excellent day alternatives exist: the Calanques de Piana (UNESCO), Monte San Petrone, and the Bavella needles are all reachable in a day.

The Calanques de Piana — UNESCO-listed — are dramatic red granite formations carved by erosion between Porto and Piana. The D81 road crosses them with panoramic viewpoints. The best way to experience them is by boat from Porto (regular excursions), which accesses sea caves and arches unreachable by road. Early morning light on the orange rocks is breathtaking.

Yes, Corsica is one of the Mediterranean's finest diving destinations. The seabed is exceptional: intact posidonia meadows, grouper, barracuda, dolphins, and loggerhead sea turtles. The Lavezzi Islands (nature reserve at the southern tip) and the waters around Propriano and Porto-Vecchio rank among the best spots. Dive centres offer beginner baptisms and PADI courses from most coastal resorts. Sea kayaking is also ideal for exploring coves and marine caves from coastal campsites.

Ferry from Marseille, Nice, Toulon, Genoa, or Livorno (Corsica Ferries, Corsica Linea, La Méridionale) (5–12 hours depending on route), or fly from Paris, Lyon, or Marseille to Ajaccio, Bastia, or Calvi. June and September are ideal: warm sea (24–26°C), smaller crowds, lower prices. July–August is beautiful but very busy — book your ferry and campsite months in advance.

Corsican charcuterie (lonzu, coppa, figatellu) is a must — made from semi-wild pigs raised under oak trees. Also look out for PDO Haute-Corse olive oil, honey (chestnut, maquis, citrus), brocciu cheese (Corsica's only PDO cheese), fig jam, and candied citron. Corsican wines — Patrimonio, Ajaccio, Figari — are well worth discovering at the source.

Yes — it's essential for July–August. Ferry crossings (Marseille, Nice, Toulon) and campsites fill up from January–February for high season; booking 4–6 months ahead is the norm. Outside peak season (May–June, September–October), availability typically appears 4–6 weeks in advance. Remember that environmental protection in Corsica carries legal force: campfires are strictly prohibited, parking outside designated areas is prosecuted, and picking protected maquis plants is an offence.

Yes — Corsica is one of the most expensive destinations on the French coastline, and that's part of its appeal. Expect to pay €80–150/night for a mobile home in high season (July–August), plus the ferry (€50–120 per person return from Marseille or Nice). The smart move: go in June or September, when campsite rates drop 30–40% and crossings can cost half the peak-season price. Compared to Corsican hotels (€200–400/night beachside), a mobile home is still by far the most affordable option. On the island, village markets and buying direct from local producers (charcuterie, cheeses, wines) help keep the food budget in check.