Why Corsica? To be honest with you it was a bit random. Me and my partner were in desperate need for an easy holiday, no long drives to airports, no long flights, preferably warm and just easy. I also wanted to go to a place I hadn’t been before which was narrowing our holiday destination down even further but I have to say I’m quite happy with the decision we made 🙂
Corsica, a French island in the Mediterranean Sea, close to Italy. Napoleon was born there. The well-known G20 hiking route. Wines. National specialities. Very friendly people. What else? A lovely island that offers plenty of different holiday activities (or beaches, cafes and bars for the less active ones).
I’ve been to Italy and France before and without wanting to offend anyone, Corsica feels more Italian than French. Or let’s say it’s neither of them, it’s simply Corsican.
Two things you should be aware of. Unless you are Corsican don’t trust in any time indications no matter whether you walk or drive. Although I had to smile when I read ‘the average speed is 50km/h’, I have to say it’s pretty accurate for most roads apart from the bigger roads and the small part of motorway around Bastia. Also, be careful we have seen two abandoned accident cars and a motorcycle accident in one week.
Even if you do any walks or hiking routes, calculate at least the maximum suggested time. We do a lot of (long) walks but usually needed more time or the maximum time suggested. Maybe it was the heat, maybe because we are not used to mountains. Did I say heat? Take plenty of water with you – we emptied 10 1,5l bottles of water in 5 days and that is plus all non water drinks.
So, what have we done? What is it that you might want to do if you are visiting Corsica?
Day 1 – Arrival Bastia and exploration of our final destination Macinaggio
Day 2 – Sentier des Douaniers (Macinaggio – Santa Maria)
Day 3 – Cascades de Purcaraccia
Day 6 – Boat trip and Sentier de Douaniers ( Macinaggio – Barcaggio – Macinaggio)