Unlock Adventure: 8 Incredible Things To Do In Corsica
Home to an array of unforgettable experiences, from tours of ancient ruins to mouthwatering culinary awakenings, there’s plenty of things to do in Corsica.
Nature enthusiasts, history buffs and food lovers will all find something to enjoy in Corsica. Nestled between the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea and rugged mountain landscapes, Corsica has been coined the “pearl of the Mediterranean” thanks to its combination of stunning natural beauty, rich history, adventurous activities, and delectable cuisine.
A stunning island where adventure meets relaxation, it is a fantastic destination for travelers interested in all things outdoors. Around every corner you’ll witness a captivating natural wonder, like enchanting blue waters, breathtaking beaches and deep alpine forests. With so much beauty to behold and adventures waiting, we’ve shortlisted 8 incredible things to include in your Corsica itinerary…
1. Meet Artisans In Remote Villages
Levie is a remote village located in the southern part of Corsica, nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Alta Rocca region. This area is known for its rugged mountains and dense forests while the village itself retains traditional Corsican charm with narrow cobblestone streets and old stone houses.
Here, artisanal cutlery holds a significant place in the local culture and craftsmanship. Corsican cutlery, often crafted by skilled artisans known as “couteliers,” is renowned for its quality, durability, and unique designs.
During your tour, we recommend meeting artisans of cutlery and learning about the forgery of different art pieces.
While in Sartène, a picturesque town often referred to as the “most Corsican of Corsican towns” due to its strong cultural identity, rugged beauty, and rich history, you can learn about traditional crafts of the region with a local pottery artisan.
2. Visit Scandola Nature Reserve
Scandola Nature Reserve is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site on the western coast of Corsica. Known for its red cliffs, some 900 meters high, intriguing grottos and coves, and rich biodiversity, Scandola Nature Reserve is a must-see for nature lovers. The flora and fauna here features flowering marine plants and rare bird species, such as Ash Puffins.
Take a private boat to the reserve to admire the remarkable landscapes and wildlife. While you can’t top or swim by the reserve, we recommend embarking on a short hike in Giroleta, charming port village, to enjoy expansive views of the reserve.
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3. Walk Through The Cucuruzzu Ruins
Cucuruzzu is a pre-historical, archaeological site discovered in 1963 and located near the village of Levie. The fascinating site provides valuable insights into Corsica’s early human habitation and prehistoric civilization and is a great activity for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
Its secluded location amidst dense vegetation adds to the site’s mystique and allure, making it a fantastic place to witness on foot. Walk along a marked trail that slopes gently into a valley to reach a fortress with fantastic views of the mountains.
While exploring the ruins with your personal guide, admire the stacked stone walls and learn about the birth of the Corsican civilization.
4. Stay On A 5,000 Acre Seafront Estate
There’s a beautiful selection of luxurious hotels, lodges and accommodations in Corsica. One of our preferred accommodations is located in the Sartene region: Domaine de Murtoli.
Domaine de Murtoli is a group of 20 chic cottages beach-fringed in a 5,000-acre private estate in the south-west corner of the Mediterranean island. As well as boasting pastoral lands, agricultural fields, and an extensive vegetable garden, River Ortolo runs through the estate and towering mountains surround it.
The authentic shepherds’ houses and landlord mansions have been refurbished into luxury cottages, most with private heated pools and ocean views.
During your stay, you can enjoy a tailor-made itinerary of exciting activities, such as horseback riding, fishing on a private traditional fishing boat, and walking tours around the property’s epic grounds. There’s also a 6 mile-long private beach and two gourmet restaurants to enjoy at leisure.
5. Take A Private Helicopter To Calvi
It is possible to take a private helicopter from Domaine de Murtoli to Calvi, enjoying spectacular aerial views of this stunning island.
As you journey through the skies, admire Corsica’s diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to mountainous terrain. The highlights of your private helicopter tour will include panoramic views of Domaine de Murtoli’s picturesque landscapes, vineyards and olive groves; Corsica’s rolling hills and verdant valleys interspersed with rivers and streams; 155 mile coastline with turquoise waters, sandy beaches and charming villages dotting the shoreline; and the rugged mountain ranges with rocky peaks, deep valleys, and alpine meadows.
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6. Beach Hop Along The Southern Coast
Corsica is home to pristine beaches, including Rondinara which has been voted one of the top three most beautiful beaches in Europe.
If you are looking to relax in the sun and enjoy water-based activities in Corsica’s azure sea, embark on a private boating excursion along the southern coast. We recommend visiting Plage de Palombaggia, Bay of Santa Giulia, Bay of Rondinara and the bay of Porto Novo, stopping to swim and snorkel along the way.
Head to the Islands of Lavezzi, a group of small, uninhabited granite islands located 7 miles southeast of Bonifacio, and enjoy its beautiful shell sand beaches and crystalline waters.
The island has been a classified nature reserve since 1982 and is home to several rare species of wildflower, such as yellow-horned poppies and white sea daffodils.
7. Admire The Cliffs Of Bonifacio
Bonifacio is a captivating coastal town located on the southern tip of Corsica renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and picturesque setting atop white limestone cliffs.
The extraordinary coastline of Bonifacio is known for the dramatic sights of the citadel and the upper town. During a private boat excursion, witness the town’s buildings overhanging the magnificent chalky cliffs which look like they are about to topple into the sea.
We recommend having lunch in the bustling marina of Bonifacio before embarking on a tour of its citadel and famous caves, such as the famous Cave of Sdragonatu. The Cave of Sdragonatu is entered through a narrow and low passage and boasts a gloriously colored seabed, as well as a hole in the roof shaped like a map of Corsica.
8. Dine At Casadelmar
Casadelmar is a 2 Michelin starred restaurant located in Porto Vecchio. Run by Italian chef, Fabio Bragagnolo, this gourmet restaurant prepares simple and contemporary Mediterranean cuisine and is known as being one of the best restaurants on the island.
The restaurant emphasizes the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both flavorful and visually stunning and is a must-visit when in Corsica.
The Best Things To Do In Corsica
Our curated list of things to do in Corsica is about witnessing the highlights while being able to immerse yourself in the soul of the island. These activities capture the essence of this enchanting destination, allowing you to connect with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture.
For more information on things to do in Corsica and to start planning your bespoke tour, contact one of our Travel Experts today.
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