10x colourful Corsica

Pearly white beaches, clear blue waters, cosy villages and rugged landscapes: welcome to Corsica, or Île de Beauté! This island may seem small, but you won't get bored easily. Take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea or head out to discover all the island's hidden gems. Curious? We take you along the 10 most special places on colourful Corsica.

1.    Limestone cliffs near Bonifacio

High above the white limestone cliffs of southern Corsica, you will find charming Bonifacio. The town rises above the Mediterranean Sea, giving you stunning views. With the famous Escalier du Roi d'Aragon, a steep carved staircase, you can move down to see the rocky outcrops and azure waters up close. 
During the day, Bonifacio, like Corsica's other towns, is convivial and quiet. The warm temperatures slow down the pace, but once the sun goes down, a bustling city emerges. Start your exploration at the port and walk between the narrow streets to the fortifications, into the old town. Here you can dine in one of the many restaurants. Sample Corsican cuisine, with a delicious hint of Italian influences.

2.    The rock formations of Calanches de Piana

The red-coloured granite rock formations of Calanches de Piana are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. Located on the west coast, you can spot the rocks both by car, from a boat and on foot. From the towns of Porto to Piana, you can drive past the rock formations while viewing the breathtaking landscapes along the coast. But the hiking trails also offer a sporting challenge.
Tip: ride this route when the sun goes down. The glow of the sun creates a special light spectacle.

3. The untouched Scandola nature reserve

Also on the UNESCO World Heritage List is the Scandola nature reserve. This protected area on Corsica's rugged west coast can only be reached by boat. Volcanic cliffs, unusual bays and impressive rock formations add colour to the landscape. It's like arriving at an undiscovered place. If you are lucky, you will encounter various birds - and maybe even dolphins - during your boat trip. Thanks to strict visitation rules, this area is still pristine and pure.

4.    The history of Bonaparte in Ajaccio

Ajaccio is the capital of Corsica and has a rich history. The city is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, one of the most famous historical figures in French history. Bonaparte was born in 1769, when Corsica was part of France. Today, the city still holds many reminders of Napoleon, such as the Musée National de la Maison Bonaparte. Through portraits, paintings and furniture, Napoleon's life comes to life. Also at Place de Gaulle, Napoleon is honoured with a statue showing him on horseback towering over his four brothers.

5.    The Cap Corse peninsula

On the northern side of Corsica lies Cap Corse, a peninsula with winding coastal roads running through varied landscapes, from rugged heights to lower bays. Drive past quaint fishing villages, hidden coves and Genoese towers; the island's ancient defence towers. These defences were built by villagers to protect the island from pirate attacks. Today, they are the symbol of the island and although not all Genoese towers are Genoese in origin, their construction, simplicity and architecture classify them as such. 
Visit the villages of Centuri and Nonza to experience authentic Corsica, or take one of several hiking trails, and go on an adventure through the pristine landscape. In the town of Bastia, you can buy fruit and vegetables at weekend market ‘Place du Marché’ and view masterpieces by local artists.

6.    Into the mountains: the Col de Bavella

The Col de Bavella is a spectacular mountain pass and part of the rugged landscape of southern Corsica. At an altitude of over 1,200 metres, hikers can enjoy pointed peaks and sweeping views.
The Col de Bavella is part of the GR20 route, one of Corsica's most beautiful hiking routes. You will have views of the towering rocks rising above the Aiguilles de Bavella. Do you like adventure, nature and a sporting challenge? Then the Col de Bavella is the place for you.

7.    The cultural capital Corte

In the heart of Corsica, right in the Parc Natural Régional de Corse, you will find the historic city of Corte. Located 450 metres above sea level, this city is also called the cultural capital of the island and used to be the capital of Corsica. It is the only city on the island to host a university. Due to Corte's difficult location, the status of capital passed to Ajaccio, but despite this, the city still has allure.
In Corte, you can see much of Corsican culture and traditions. Narrow streets, impressive mansions and the old centre show the authentic side of the city. Nowadays, with the arrival of students, you can also find trendy restaurants, terraces and cafés. The city is known for its citadel, a fortification towering over the city. In the city, you have great views of the mountains and valleys, such as the surrounding Restonica valley. It is therefore an ideal starting point for your hike through the natural park.

8.    Prehistoric discoveries in Filitosa

You will discover prehistoric finds in Filitosa, set among hills and landscapes full of olive trees. This unique historical site on the island is home to discoveries dating back to the period between 6000 and 3500 BC.
In this special place, you will find 32 menhirs, which stand out for their impressive length (up to 2 metres) and unusual carvings. For instance, faces can be seen on some menhirs and helmets and swords have been carved. The reason why these works were created remains a mystery to this day.
The fact that the site and sculptures are still so intact has earned Filitosa a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

9.    The tropical beaches of the Lavezzi islands

Bright blue waters and pearly white beaches, it's like being in the Caribbean when you sail past the Lavezzi Islands. This tropical paradise off the southern coast of Corsica, south of Bonifacio, is a place of unusual islands and inflected bays. 
The Lavezzi Islands are a protected nature reserve accessible only by boat. There is no construction on the islands, so the place retains its unspoilt charm. The underwater world in particular invites you to snorkel and dive. 
On the islands, you can relax and enjoy the tropical atmospheres. Whether you take a dip in the blue sea, stroll among the rock formations or soak up the sun on your beach towel, you can do it all on the Lavezzi Islands.

10.    Tasteful Porto-Vecchio

You will also find stretched sandy beaches and crystal clear waters in Porto-Vecchio. This charming city exudes luxury and is full of natural beauty and history. Built on a hill, Porto-Vecchio has narrow streets, cosy squares and terraces and is a favourite spot among tourists. Here you can taste many dishes of Corsican cuisine, such as local meats, fish and seafood, Brocciu cheese or the local wines. You're also in the right place for desserts; Corsica's menu includes cake with dried fruit, chestnut cakes and Fiadone (cake with Brocciu cheese and lemon). 
Walk the promenade of the bustling marina or discover the city's rich history inside the citadel. Port-Vecchio is the place to be for relaxation and adventure.

Curious about the clear blue waters, vast coastlines and cuisine of this sunny island? Book your holiday home in colourful Corsica with Basic Travel today.