Corsica

Floating in the Mediterranean Sea between France and Italy, La Corse is famous for being place that gave the world Napoleon Bonaparte. The mountainous island is ruggedly beautiful, and has a variety of stunning ecological zones, from warm sandy beaches ringed by turquoise waters, to dramatic snow-capped mountains. Despite its abundant natural beauty, this island has remained relatively unspoilt, so you won’t feel like just another tourist while exploring this captivating region.

Stay
Chez Charles – Overlooking Calvi Bay, this charming hotel in the picturesque village of Lumio looks like it popped straight out of a black and white French movie. The rooms themselves are fairly stark and neutral, but with nature waiting outside, you won’t be spending much time in there anyway. If you’re not the outdoorsy type, then simply relax by the pool with a cocktail in hand, and enjoy the breathtaking views over the bay. Room rates start from about £60.

See
Bonifacio Haute Ville – The port of Bonifacio clings onto the tip of Corsica, and it’s old city, or Haute Ville (literally ‘high town’) is a spectacular sight to behold. Seen from the bay below, the old town almost seems to be suspended in mid-air. The buildings that rise up on top of sheer cliffs seem to be on the verge of sliding off into the sea. Inside, the citadel is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets and crumbling Genoese buildings, some of which look like they’ve been there for several centuries.

Eat
Restaurant Le ‘20123’ – You’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve gone back in time and re-appeared in a quaint Corsican village when you step through the doors of this restaurant. The story goes that the family who owns this restaurant originated from a little village south of Ajaccio (postcode 20123) and wanted to recreate their village in the city. So they did exactly that, by building an exact replica of the village in the restaurant!
As well as a large dose of kitsch, you’ll be served lots of hearty, traditional Corsican fare. Expect thick spicy bouillabaise, boar stew, and tender young goat served with sauce.