Corsica may not be your first choice when you imagine a vacation in the Mediterranean, but it is a real gem. The island, which is a part of France, is like a miniature continent, with different regions offering a variety of landscapes and a plethora of experiences. Both hikers and beach lovers can fulfil their needs here, enjoying “the island of beauty”, as the French themselves call it.
The island is located 170 kilometres southwest of the mainland of France and is the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean. Politically, Corsica is a region of France with its own parliament. The pastel-coloured capital of the island is called Ajaccio and is located on the western coast. Throughout history, Romans, Greeks and Moores, among others, have passed through, resulting in a melting pot of influences where the Italian in dominating. Corsica remained Italian up until the 18th century, which is primarily noticeable in the cuisine – olive oil, charcuteries, cheeses – rustic and delicious food is what is on the menu on the island of beauty.
On Corsica, you will find cosy cities with narrow alleys like in Lady and the Tramp, mountain villages only reachable through serpentine roads lined with fig trees and large yachts at anchor in the harbours. We can guarantee that the photo opportunities will be a lot. The beaches are uncountable with great variety – white sandy beaches, tiny lagoons with turquoise blue water and barren black beaches. The island is decorated by forested mountains, with the highest peaks sometimes being snow covered until June.
In the northeastern part of Corsica, you will find Bastia – a genuine city, founded in the 14th century. Today, it houses approximately 50,000 inhabitants as well as the island’s largest harbour with regular ferry traffic to Nice, Marseille and Genoa among others. Bastia offers a delightful mix of old, slightly run down alleys, unique shopping opportunities, lovely beaches and culinary experiences.
The airport is located 22 kilometres southeast of Bastia, and it is easy to travel from the airport to Bastia with the airport shuttle (9 Euros one way) or by taxi (45 – 65 Euros depending on the time of day). An affordable way of reaching the larger cities during your stay is by bus, while a rented car provides the most freedom.
The main tourist site in Bastia and the surrounding area is the Musée d’Histoire, located in the palace, Palais des Gouverneurs. Here, you will find out about the history and traditions of the city. The largest church on the island, Saint Jean-Baptiste, is located by the old harbour and sports a grand facade complete with two towers, and often serves as a landmark to those navigating in Bastia. Another worthwhile visit is the local market – not particularly big but offering the opportunity to feel like a local Bastian, among vegetables, baguettes, hams and cheeses. If you have invested in a rented car, you should take the opportunity to drive north to the naze of Cap Corse. However, be prepared to experience curvy and serpentine roads going up and down, but it has a view making it worth the effort.
One of the prettiest beaches on the island, Plage de l’Arinella, can be found south of Bastia, with ample opportunity to snorkel around the rocky bays. The best sandy beaches are located just south of the city centre, and despite summer temperatures reaching above 30 centigrade, the light breeze makes sure that the heat isn’t overwhelming.
An ice cream break is mandatory on the way back from the beach. Bastia is famous for its delicious ice cream which has developed into somewhat of an art form. There is everything from classic tastes like vanilla and strawberry to more exotic ones like feta cheese and chestnut.
And why not have your evening meal at the harbour? The view is spectacular which makes the food even tastier.
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