We can divide Corsica into 9 micro-regions....

Description

The island of beauty is full of surprises and wonders!

To do so, here is a short trip from micro-regions to micro-regions so that you can discover Corsica without missing a beat! 😊

1) The region of Bastia (Paese Bastiacciu)

In this small micro-region, it will be impossible for you not to visit Bastia, the second largest city in Corsica after Ajaccio. Immerse yourself in the heart of its old town to get lost in its picturesque alleys, a small effort will be necessary to reach the citadel which is a little high up, but you will not regret it! Indeed, the view of the port is breath taking!

Bastia is not the only essential point in this small region! The Corsican Cape (Cap Corse) is also a treasure of Mother Nature! Split coasts, Genoese towers and small intimate coves, a change of scenery guaranteed! We recommend a few stops, especially in Erbalunga, a small authentic village on the waterfront, guarded by its ruined Genoese tower.

But also Nonza, which is also a more than mandatory stop! Indeed, Nonza, a small-fortified village perched on a cliff, offers a panoramic view of the Gulf of Saint-Florent. We suggest you to go there in the evening, to enjoy the exceptional sunset!

2) Castagniccia

A chestnut territory par excellence, the Castagniccia brings together forests, hills and small walks ideal for families.

It is the wildest region of Corsica.

If you want a “nature” stay, Castagniccia is the ideal place.

Don’t forget backpacks and hiking boots! 😊

3) Eastern Plain

The Eastern Plain called “Piaghja Urientale” in Corsican, extends over 80 kilometres long. The landscape is very diverse, combining long beaches, mountain rivers and plains. This diversity will give you the opportunity to pursue many activities there!

The Eastern plain also has a very rich cultural heritage, notably in Aléria where the Corsican museum is located under the influence of Genoa, but also in the small village of Cervione, which has a 16th century Franciscan convent!

As for gastronomy, we suggest a stop at Diana’s pond, used for ranching oysters and mussels all year round (possibility of tasting on site).

4) The Extreme South / Alta Rocca

It is the most visited micro-region in Corsica and for very good reasons! This small territory is full of treasures offered by Mother Nature!

 

Among others, the Alta Rocca mountain range where you will find:

-The Aiguilles de Bavella, the starting point for many hikes!

-The Ospédale forest, ideal for a small picnic break with the family!

-The Piscia di Gallu waterfall, easily accessible in 40 minutes by a small path in the heart of the Ospédale forest.

-The Cavu Valley and its natural swimming pools.

The Extreme South is also the beaches, some of which are considered to be the most beautiful in Corsica! Such as the beaches of Santa-Ghjulia, Palombaggia, Tamaricciu, Rundinara and Sperone.

We recommend a short stop to visit Porto-Vecchio, especially its citadel and marina, which is very pleasant for a refreshing break on the terrace!

Bonifacio is an essential stopover, considered as the “picturesque capital of Corsica”, this small town will surprise you with its citadel perched on the side of majestic white limestone cliffs.

From the marina you will also be offered boat trips to discover the Lavezzi Islands Nature Reserve and also to admire the cliffs of Bonifacio and its sea caves.

Finally, the last treasure of the Extreme South: The Lion of Roccapina that can be seen from the roadside between Bonifacio and Sartène!

5)   Sartenais Valinco Taravo

You will hear, when one speaks of Sartène that this one is the “most Corsican of the Corsican cities”…

This city is nestled in the mountains at an altitude of 300 metres; it is the largest municipality in Corsica due to its size!

Classified as a city of Art and History, Sartène is home to several not to be missed monuments, such as the convents of Saint Côme and Saint Damien, the former Governors’ palace, which is now the town hall, and the church of Santa Maria Assunta, where the cross and the chain carried by the penitent of the Catenacciu are on display.

14 kilometres from Sartène is Propriano, a small seaside town renowned for its beautiful beaches.

Not far from there you will also find the Genoese tower of Campomoro accessible only by foot.

For history lovers, we offer you a mandatory visit to Filitosa, a prehistoric site that includes menhirs and dolmens!

6) The Region of Ajaccio

Ajaccio is the heart of the Ajaccio region. The largest city in Corsica, it houses a rich cultural and historical heritage such as the Napoleon Bonaparte House Museum or the Fesch Museum, which has a large collection of European art.

Ajaccio also stands out for its natural heritage with the Archipelago of the Sanguinaires Islands, located on the extreme tip of the city. It is advisable to go there in the evening at sunset to admire the orange-red colour of the islands.

If you want to stay in Ajaccio in winter, don’t forget your après-skis! Indeed, the region of Ajaccio has a ski resort, the “Val d’Ese” resort.

7) West Corsica

West Corsica has many must-see sites such as the creeks of Piana, which can be admired on foot, by car or by boat!  A feast for the eyes!

We also recommend a short stop in the village of Piana, classified as the 12th favourite village of the French!

8) Balagne

Balagne is above all Calvi, Ile Rousse, Galeria…

We also think of the very famous Nature Reserve of Scandola, which can be discovered mainly on board a boat…

Balagne is also home to the famous natural swimming pools of the Fango Valley, paradisiacal beaches such as Calvi beach lined with pines or the start of the famous GR20 hike from Calenzana.

9) The Central region of Corsica

The centre of Corsica is located in the heart of the Corsican Regional Natural Park. It is a territory to visit for its breath taking landscapes! Between lakes and mountains, hiking enthusiasts will be delighted!

Among the most famous hikes we offer you:

  • The hike to Lake Melu and Capitellu, starting from Corte (duration: 5h30 round trip)
  • The path to the Sant’Eliseu chapel from Santo Pietro di Venaco (duration: 4h30 round trip)
  • Hiking to the Oriente lake from Corte (duration 5h30 round trip)

 

The city of Corte is the capital of central Corsica; the visit of its citadel is essential! Especially in terms of the views it has to offer!

  • Environment : Corsica

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  • Trip

Why it’s nice !

  • 9 micro-regions
  • The richness of the landscapes
  • 9 small countries