Why Corsica could be your surprising summer escape

Times

19-05-2025

With its fusion of Mediterranean cuisines, perfect beaches and historic towns – including Napoleon's birthplace – the French island is ripe for discovery Clear waters and shady pines make Palombaggia one of Corsica's must-see beaches
Pearl-white sands lapped by turquoise seas, dramatic mountain and coastal scenery, and a host of historic sites dating back 8,000 years, all garnished with fine food and super hotels and holiday villas: it's no surprise the French call Corsica L 'Î le de Beauté (the Isle of Beauty).
Although it is somewhat of an undiscovered gem for many British tourists, Corsica offers sun, culture and adventure without the crowds, and its 200 beaches are some of the Mediterranean's best.
Whether it's Ostriconi's exquisite sunsets, Calvi's fashionable urban vibe in the north, or Rondinara's perfect scallop of grains and Palombaggia's pink-grey rocks and tall pines in the south, divine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters are a given.
Prefer a cooling dip inland? The island is blessed with stunning natural pools. They might lie within Les Piscines Naturelle de Cava's sculptural volcanic stone, Fango Valley's waterfalls and colourful rocks, and on the Solenzara River beneath photogenic peaks. All promise a rejuvenating diversion from the summer heat. The shallow waters at Santa Giulia beach make it a perfect spot for snorkelling
Corsica is also laced with wonderful hiking trails linking mountains and the Mediterranean – most famously the 180km GR20, but there are also shorter, equally spectacular routes. Walk to stunning Lake Nino, ascend 2,706m Monte Cinto – the island's highest point – or cross the Col de Bavella above red granite pinnacles. You could also explore Scandola Nature Reserve's mesmerising rocks and jagged peaks with sweeping bay views, visit epic glacier-moulded Restonica and Tavignano gorges or the Lavezzi Archipelago's secluded beaches and coves.
Corsica's natural wonders are just the start. Its prolific historical sights include the capital Ajaccio, Napoleon's birthplace, with pastel-hued streets and gracious squares; medieval Bonifacio, rising seamlessly from vertiginous limestone cliffs; and Calvi's magnificent citadel. Genoese towers and forts abound, alongside prehistoric ruins that include Filitosa's tombs and standing stones.
However, these are not the only man-made wonders. Corsica's food is a thing of beauty. Not just fish fresh off the boat but also local dishes featuring wild boar, slow-cooked lamb and chestnut-flour cheesecake. There are superb cafés and restaurants, with 43 Michelin Guide entrants, including two-star Casadelmar's Corsican-Italian menu. Corsican cuisine is an undoubted highlight of any trip to the island
To fully appreciate this glorious island, book with the best. Corsican Places has years of experience, experts with first-hand knowledge of the destination for tailored advice and an English-speaking team on the ground. They're all essential ingredients in Corsican Places' ATOL–protected packages that include flights, car hire and transfers.
Its extensive range of accommodation runs from adult-only apartments to hotels and family villas. In the northwest, Algajola's ancient fishing village is home to the intimate family-run Hôtel Santa Vittoria, with 15 rooms and a beautiful dining terrace with views across the sea and beach. Further south, the exclusive five-star Grand Hôtel Cala Rossa ups the ante in a private park overlooking the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio. Perfect for couples and honeymooners, its serene spa's therapies use wild botanicals and homegrown produce, and its celebrated restaurant serves seasonally inspired dishes. Poolside at La Citaj, a beautifully refurbished period villa near St-Florent that sleeps eight
Corsican Places also offers superb family villas, pool towels and welcome pack that provides everything from wine and beer to snacks. Contemporary four-person Villa Kallisté has crisp modern interiors and French windows opening onto a large south-facing terrace and a pool overlooking the rugged southeast coastline. Beaches are just a short drive away, along with Propriano's bustling quayside.
Alternatively, enjoy the tranquil eight-person Villa Rasello, which is superbly elevated in the southern hills, with an open-plan living area and kitchen ideal for families, and looking over a large private pool to the mountains. Its terrace is perfect for alfresco dining, while a few miles' drive takes you to Monacia d'Aullene with its traditional Corsican restaurant.
Book your summer villa holiday before the end of May for Corsican Places' special offer where kids and school-age teenagers fly free from London Stansted to Calvi between May 18 and October 5, and from London Gatwick to Figari between June 29 and August 24.
Accommodation includes stunning family villas such as the eight-person La Citaj near St-Florent, where seven nights, including flights and car hire costs from £699pp. A superbly refurbished period home, La Citaj features exposed stonework, fireplaces and a large pool offering views towards the magnificent Cathédrale du Nebbio.
Alternatively, the four-person Casa di L'Olivu is a rustic stone property in southern Corsica costing from £699pp for seven nights, including car hire and flights. Set between olive trees and vineyards, its open-plan living/dining area and two bedrooms are decorated in tasteful neutral tones. Bonifacio and Porto Vecchio are within a short drive.
Corsican Places also offers great deals on adult-only accommodation. A Merula near Calvi is bookable from £799pp for seven nights, including flights and transfers. Set in immaculate grounds, the 25 two-person residences with kitchenettes are individually styled and overlook the gardens and shared pool from their balconies or terraces. Multiple bars and restaurants are close by. Nearby, Le Home's two-person apartments offer another adult-only break within tranquil grounds, from £699pp including flights. The view across the Gulf of St Florent from Corsican Places villa L'Ancre Bleue