Below are excerpts from Hiram’s recent email:

“Firstly, thank you so much for your tips and advice! They were all put to good use. I rented a scooter at Hotel Kalliste, 51 Cours Napoléon. If you weren’t already aware of this, it seems to be the place in Ajaccio to rent. They were great – easy, straightfortward, no hassles– and the prices reasonable.

I took two days inland, hiking in Bocognano and to Lac de Melo, spending the night in Corte.

I was traveling alone so I pretty much did everything by myself, including the hiking. I rode the scooter to Bocognano, (from Ajaccio), spent a couple hours in the village center at a morning farmers’ market, then headed off to hike. After the hike, I scooted to Corte, found a reasonable hotel, asked for dinner recommendations and had a great dinner.

The next day, I scooted to the starting point of the Melo hike – which as you probably know is a beautiful 15km drive in and out – and hiked to Lac de Melo. Then drove back to Ajaccio. While in Ajaccio, I explored on bike and foot, and took the scooter to the beaches for whole days there”.

A Word of Caution

“I already knew how to ride a scooter and if you are going to ride anywhere out of the cities, you really need to know what you’re doing. Even so, the ride along N193 was challenging — especially so from Bocognano to Corte; Ajaccio to Bocognano was lovely –- and I always needed to be very safe and extra cautious, frequently taking hairpin turns very slow and letting plenty of motorists pass me. It was definitely worth the experience. The air and views were breathtaking. At the same time, having done it once, I wouldn’t do it again.

So, if there is a bottom line, people who already own/ride a motorcycle or scooter will feel safe as long as they already understand the challenge of the roads or have had similar experiences.

I rode into La Restonica valley all the way up to the final parking lot which is, I believe, where Bergeries de Grotelle is. I was lucky being on a scooter! By the time I got there, late morning, the lot was full of cars and they were already being parked along the road and in the more remote lots which made for a considerably longer hike for some!

The scooters come with two safety locking mechanisms and a cable for locking the front wheel, so locking up is no problem and I never felt that the bike was in jeopardy. Corsica felt very safe to me in that regard. And, as you know, there are many people riding motorcycles and scooters of all kinds”.

Corsican Hospitality

I asked Hiram: “Did you find Corsicans to be friendly and helpful? Where you able to communicate with some people in English or was it all in French or hand gestures ?”

His reply:

“While I couldn’t have lengthy conversations with people in French, or any conversation really, a lot was exchanged with a few words. I wasn’t stressed about not speaking French and I found most Corsicans quite willing to use the English they knew.

Overall, I found Corsicans to be friendly and helpful. Most of the travellers were French. I was only there for a brief time but I didn’t come across any Americans”.

Sometimes I wonder if my love and enthusiasm for Corsica makes me biased so I was glad to read these remarks from a first time visitor, who travelled all by himself and is not fluent in French.

His email concluded with: “Thank you again for being such a great resource and contributing to my beautiful week in Corsica”.

I am thankful for having these valuable insights to share with other readers.

Corsica Scooters

Scooters can be found in several places throughout the island and new ones keep coming up. To find a rental place just Google “Corsica moto” or “Corsica scooter” and you’ll see a list of locations. Some rental places provide bikes, scooters, motorcycles and quads.

Related Post

You can see photographs of the Lake Melo hike mentioned in this article on my recent post at the Corsica Blog: Hiking la Restonica

Photo credit: www.flickr.com/photos/comprock

The post Corsica on a Scooter appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

Photo by Celine Ragonnet

Lake Nino can only be reached on foot and camping near it is prohibited. For this reason, it is best to start hiking in the morning, reach the lake by noon and return to your starting point by early evening. The best time to do this hike is from May to mid October when there is less chance of ice, rain or snow and the days are long.

Getting There

There are several ways to reach Lac de Nino. To visit the lake in one day it is best to start from the Ski Station at Col de Vergio. This is a longer route but it is not too difficult to complete. This trail is part of the GR20 (clearly marked with red and white spots) and combines views of the sea, pine forests and wide open spaces, surrounded by the tallest mountains on the island. The next section explains this trail in more detail.

Easiest Route to Lac de Nino

If you have a car, start from Corte and drive to the town of Calacuccia. After Calacuccia, continue on D84, pass Albertacce, until you reach the Ski Station. Park your car and begin hiking south on the GR20.

(This trail is marked in lilac and red on the map below). About an hour from Vergio, the trail reaches Col de San Petru or Pedru. The trail then becomes less steep and the path traverses a forest, then reaches a small plateau before curving around the southern face of Capu Tozzu.

Map by CathenCorse.Uniterre.com

From Capu Tozzu the trail descends to the lake. The total trek is 15 km long (round trip) and takes about 8 hours to complete.

Shortest Route to Lac de Nino

As indicated in the map above, the most direct route (marked in black) starts from the forest house (Maison Forestiere) of Popaghia. This is also the steepest trail. Those who have climbed to lake Capitello will be familiar with the almost vertical, rocky climbs needed to reach Lac de Nino.

The photo below should give you an idea of what to expect.

This route takes about 5-6 hours to complete, round trip. Mountain boots are highly recommended.

Hike from Corte to Lac de Nino

For those who have more time and enjoy hiking, a third option is to begin from Corte hiking along the Tavignano Valley to the Refuge de la Sega. The sign post says it’s a 3 1/2 hour hike but that assumes no stopping for lunch, naps or for bathing in the fresh pools. It is best to plan on hiking for 6-7 hours each day.

Spend the night at the Sega refuge and the following day continue on to Lac de Nino which should take another 6-7 hours.

From there you can return on the same Tavignano trail to Corte. For a change of scenery, after the Refuge de la Sega follow the signs to Plateau d’Alzu and from Alzu descend to the main road on the Restonica Valley, route D263. (You’ll need to make prior transportation or taxi arrangements to return to Corte or rely on hitchhiking).

Cell Phone Coverage

In the Corsica mountains cell phone coverage can be sporadic or non-existent. Avoid wasting your battery and only turn on your phone when you are within sight of a village.

Related Posts

Corte – Corsica’s First Capital

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Horse Back riding near Bastia

Cavallu di Brando located north of Bastia (before you reach the town of Erbalunga) offers horse back riding for the whole family in a beautiful setting between mountain and sea.

Below are their rates:

- 1 hour ……………18 €

- 1/2 Day …………40 €

- Full Day …………70 €

For more information, check out their photos and location.

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Tour de France 2013

Hotel rooms are selling out fast for the June-July 2013 period during Tour de France 2013. If you plan to visit Corsica at that time, I suggest you make your reservations now. For hotels, check out Booking.com or Campingcorse.com for campsites.

For studios, apartments and other weekly rentals, Google “Office of tourism Corsica” and you’ll see several offices for the main areas (Ajaccio, Bonifacio, Porto Vecchio, Sartene etc.) where you’ll find a wide selection of private properties for rent.

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Corsica without a car

For detailed information on public transportation options check out the 3rd link from the top: “Corsica without a car” (“La Corse sans voiture”) on corsicabus.org.

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Ferry Service

If you’re trying to book a ferry from mainland France, the UK or some other port in western Europe, www.directferries.co.uk let’s you check rates and availability on multiple ferry operators for several routes in Europe, including service to Corsica and Sardinia.

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Mountain Bikes

Mountain bike (VTT) rental locations can be found on all the major cities on the island: Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, Algajola, Porto and Propriano. (VTT = Vélo Tout Terrain or all terrain bike).

To rent Mountain bikes see:

http://www.corsicamoto.com

http://www.corsicabikes.com

http://www.ttcmoto.fr

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Traveling with Pets

Corsica is a pet friendly destination and dogs are allowed in most hotels, campsites, beaches, cafes, hiking trails and even boat rides.

If you’re thinking of traveling with pets to Corsica check out this post and see photos of a hiker who traveled from Slovenia to Corsica with her four dogs!!

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I appreciate all the frequent emails from readers who encourage me to continue maintaining this site. Your comments and feedback are always welcome.

Happy Travels,
Liz,

The post Corsica Travel Tips appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

I’ve taken the liberty to post one of their photographs, from their trip to the Greek island of Crete, in this post.

Tatiana and Mauro are an inspiration for us all to engage in more challenging outdoor activities by proving these extreme adventures are not just for the very young. The best health insurance anyone can have is to engage in these types of body, mind and soul experiences.

A Little Dose of Inspiration from their Blog

“…to sail again, after several years of absence, on the turbulent and demanding sea of this beautiful island …”

“…plus de naviguer à nouveau, après plusieurs années d’absence, sur la mer agitée et exigeante de cette belle île …”

“…per navigare ancora, dopo diversi anni di assenza, sul mare turbolento ed impegnativo di questa splendida isola…”

How To Participate

Some of these kayakers will be needing assistance with ground transportation while in Corsica. If you would like to meet them and offer some assistance you will be inspired and they will be thankful.

Certains de ces athlètes auront besoin d’aide pour le transport terrestre tout en Corse. Si vous souhaitez les rencontrer et offrir une certaine aide que vous serez inspirés et ils seront reconnaissants.

Alcuni di questi atleti avranno bisogno di assistenza con il trasporto via terra, mentre in Corsica. Se volete incontrarli e offrire qualche aiuto si sarà ispirato e saranno grati.

You can contact them and follow along their daring voyage by visiting their site: http://corsicakayaktour2012.blogspot.it

Stay Inspired!

I’m posting my reply in this post hoping it may help other travellers:

“Unfortunately, I don’t know of a place that offers sea kayaks for hire where you can pick up the equipment and return it seven days later. However, Corse Aventure offers week-long sea kayak trips. They are great at coordinating logistics (luggage handling, meals, accommodations, transfers to and from airport) and their prices are reasonable”.

Another option is to visit the official Corsica Tourist Office site and search for sea kayaking. They offer a free downloadable brochure on all Corsica water sports.

Two good places for kayaking in Corsica are the Gulf of Girolata (Scandola Reserve) and the South of Corsica, anywhere from Roccapina to the beaches located between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio.

Hope this helps.

If you’ve enjoyed sea kayaking in Corsica please share a brief comment below with your tips. Thank you!

Related post

Kayaking in Corsica

The post Sea Kayaking Adventure appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

This post provides some tips for a pleasant holiday in Corsica with your pet.

Traveling with Dogs

Air France and their partner airlines are pet friendly and passengers carrying small pets can even bring them (in their carriers) inside the passenger cabin.

For those traveling by ferry, I recommend choosing an operator like Corsica Ferries. Below is their official pet travel policy, as of this writing:

Pets are allowed on board our ferries. Cats and other small animals have to be kept in a suitable cage during the trip. There is no fee. You have to buy a ticket for dogs (19 €). Dogs on board have to be on a lead and wear a muzzle. You can walk freely on board with your dog except for the restaurants.

This policy seems very reasonable and humane. Unfortunately, not all ferry operators follow the same guidelines for passengers traveling with dogs and depending on the ferry operator and the route, “your pet may have to remain in the car for the duration of the crossing, with no passenger access”. (Apart from the stress an animal in this situation may experience, I would not recommend leaving a dog inside a parked car for 8-12 hours, particularly during high Summer temperatures).

Travel time from Italy to Corsica

From Livorno to Bastia – 2 hours
From Sardinia to Bonifacio – 1 hour
From Genoa to Bastia – 6 ½ hours

Travel time from mainland France to Corsica

From Marseille to Bastia or Ajaccio – 11 to 12 hours.
From Nice to Calvi or Bastia – on the high speed NGV 3 to 4 hours on a regular boat 7 hours
From Toulon to Ajaccio – 6 hours

Hiking in Corsica with a Dog

I sometimes get emails from readers asking if dogs are allowed on hikes. To answer this question I am sharing this beautiful photo album of a lady who took her four dogs to Lac de Nino, deep in the interior of the island.  She’s my hero.

Pet Friendly Accommodations

Thanks to a new online service, www.officialpethotels.com, now you can easily search for pet friendly accommodations in Corsica and worldwide. They are partnered with booking.com and offer the same rates as the ones listed in booking.com.

When searching online for other types of accommodations such as holiday residences and campsites, look for a pets welcome logo or specify “pets allowed” in your search criteria.

Once you Arrive

Some Corsicans seem to view their dogs as a regular member of their family run business. In many areas of the island, it is not uncommon to find medium to large sized dogs, walking freely through stores, cafes and even hotel lobbies.

These “working” dogs are used to mingling with tourists and are usually well behaved, however one never knows if a small yapping dog or a child may startle them. For this reason, if you bring a small dog with you, try to keep it on a leash or inside a carrying case, at least until you know the larger dog poses no threat to your pet, or to your child.

Areas were Dogs are not Permitted

Dogs are not allowed in any of the mountain refuges of the Natural Park and in most museums. Animals are not allowed in the Lavezzi islands either since they are a part of a nature reserve.

Conclusion

With a bit of planning, your Corsica holiday will be a pleasant experience for you and your pet, particularly if you avoid the hot and crowded Summer months.

Note: Corsica Journeys is not an affiliate of officialpethotels.com.

Related topics

Corsica by Ferry
Flights to Corsica

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There will be three stages in Corsica before heading to the mainland:

From Porto-Vecchio, the race will head south to the cliffs of Bonifacio, then continue moving north towards Bastia. This first stage will provide a nice warm-up for the riders mostly over mostly flat terrain on a straight highway along RN 196.

The second stage will begin in Bastia and stop in Ajaccio crossing through Corte in the heart of the island, and the final stage from Ajaccio to Calvi, will pass through the Calanques the Piana near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Scandola. This last stage may prove to be the most challenging of the three.

About 4,000 people are expected to arrive on board 1,600 vehicles for this event. Over the coming weeks, I’ll provide additional information on the many sights and places to stay along the course.

Photo: Jean-Pierre Belzit

Tour de France Stages

For dates, locations and additional information see Grand start 2013.

Tim Marsh, avid cyclist, surfer and snowboarder, travels to France every year from Australia to ride the Tour and is looking forward to visiting Corsica for the first time next year. He has written a must-read guide to help other aspiring cyclists navigate through all the logistical hurdles that a trip of this nature entails.

These days, just dealing with the ever changing airline luggage regulations is enough to make traveling overseas with more than a carry-on suitcase an ordeal. Tim’s guide will save you time, money and headaches so you can focus on having an enjoyable experience.

Get your copy of Cycling through France from this link and you’ll also receive a free copy of my guide Cycling through Corsica where you’ll find information on:

• Popular Cycling Routes
• Pros and Cons of Guided and Self-Guided Tours
• Independent Travel
• Getting to Corsica
• Hotels
• Campsites
• Gadgets and Gear
• Staying Connected
• Outdoor Gear
• Business Hours
• Language
• Getting around the island
• Information on Climbs
• Bike Hire Locations and
• Biking Tour Operators (that don’t charge an arm and a leg).

Bike man Tim is an online entrepreneur and the publisher of VeloNomad.

Related post: Cycling Through France – Special Offer

The post Tour de France 2013 appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

There are numerous blogs, photographs and travelogues on the GR20 but these beautifully narrated videos are by far the best ones I’ve seen on the topic.

This film shows sights most visitors to the island never get to see up close: exuberant forests, rocky peaks, waterfalls, vast green meadows and glacial lakes.

(Duration: 55 minutes)

Thank you Michele for sharing this experience!

To view a larger version of the films visit GR20 Corsica. Enjoy!

The post Explore and experience the GR20 appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

The cost of dining on these boats is comparable to what you would pay at a typical café or restaurant. Traveling by sea is much more relaxing than flying, with the added benefit of not having to worry about luggage volume or weight restrictions.

You can take a ferry from Bastia to Livorno, Italy for instance (about 30€ for a one way ticket) and visit Pisa, Cinque Terre, Tuscany and Florence in just a few days. (Prices may vary with season).

I have traveled in and out of Corsica on Corsica Ferries (www.corsica-ferries.co.uk) but there are other ferry operators servicing Corsica.

For more information on traveling by ferry see: Corsica by Sea

Driving through Tuscany

Accommodations

On several occasions, we were able to book apartment hotels with full kitchenettes which helped save on meals. The food in Europe is so delicious and wholesome that part of the pleasure of traveling for me is buying and preparing food and being able to sample a variety of wines and food products.

New Ports of Call

For the time being, I am taking a break from this blog, (mainly to go through the thousands of photos and notes I have collected on my most recent travels), but I’m sure I’ll continue to visit Corsica and write about it at some point in the future.

In the meantime, I appreciate the encouraging comments and messages I’ve received from some of my readers since my last blog post. Please feel free to drop by and continue sharing your unique experiences on Corsica and nearby Mediterranean destinations.

Until next time, happy travels!

“Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

Mark Twain

The post From Corsica to Tuscany appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

It would take several blog posts to cover the details on this journey but from London, my friend and I took a bus to Dover where we boarded a ferry to Calais. Then we stopped in Paris, spent three days in Caen, visiting the landing beaches of Normandy (Juno and Omaha) and Mont St. Michel, and from there we continued to La Rochelle and Carcassonne.

We averaged about 400km a day which gave us just enough time for sightseeing, refueling, eating and checking in and out of hotels. The final leg of the trip was a ferry ride from Toulon to Bastia, Corsica which was very enjoyable.

Internet Access

Except for a couple McDonald’s I found on the road (with weak Wi-Fi signals) I didn’t find a single cyber-café in Normandy. (That’s not to say there aren’t any I just couldn’t find one).

One of the hotels where we stayed had Internet access but not during Easter weekend, since the whole staff took off for the holiday and the computer room was locked. The few times I had Internet access I used for checking emails and for booking reservations.

Hotel Reservations

I’ve found www.Booking.com an essential tool for traveling through Europe. They have a good selection of conveniently located properties and we’ve been able to find average daily room rates of 50 Euros (double occupancy in April). We booked multiple reservations through them without any problems.

Resources

www.nationalexpress.com – London to Paris (bus and ferry)
www.directferries.com – Toulon to Bastia
www.booking.com – Hotels in France
www.autoeurope.com – Car rental

Source: Image of Normandy Beaches

The post The Long Road to Corsica appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

I would like to go to Corsica on April 17th. All I can find about the weather is “averages.” I know that the weather is changeable, but what kind of sunshine can I expect? Sun with 18 C° degrees is a lot different than cloudy all day with 18 C° degrees. Does the rain come in part of the day or are there long gray days? I’m OK with a bit of rain, but if it’s going to be drizzly, maybe not.

Also, I noticed quite a reduction in the number of rental places available, what about restaurants and boat excursion companies – reduced schedule or not operating at all?

Thank you.

During the month of April, you may experience mixed weather, with rain or drizzle one day, followed by one or two days of sunny and clear skies.

The water temperature may be a bit cold for some visitors but there is a lot to do and see in Corsica besides the beaches: visit mountain villages, enjoy hikes along the ocean or inland, horse back riding, kayaking, cycling, rock climbing, wine tasting and dining. Ultimately, it all depends on your personal taste and what you enjoy doing.

Many establishments are open in April, there are less crowds and hotel rates are affordable, all pluses worth considering when booking a trip to Corsica.

Average room rate in April: 50-55 Euros a night
Average weekly apt in April: 300-350 Euros /week (vs. 600+ Euros in the Summer months)

If you want perfect weather with daily blue skies then May, June, or September are the best months. July is OK weather wise but hotel rates go up. The weather in August is hot and humid, the island is crowded with tourists and hotel rates are at peak levels (if you can find a hotel room).

If you want to see snow covered mountains like these, April is a great time to visit.

Photo: View of Monte Cinto (2,707 meters) from Lake Calacuccia in the center of Corsica near Corte.

The post Corsica in April appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

Murtoli, a rustic farmhouse on a secluded cove on the southern coast that can only be reached by sea or helicopter and Fiore di Vazze, a restored stone shepherd’s hut, overlooking the Gulf of Valinco with a pool fed by a natural spring.

Murtoli © Camille Moirenc

Fiore di Vazze © Serenity Holidays Ltd

Both places are definitely charming but for me, La Tour de Micalona with its stone walls, low ceilings, small fireplace and a shower dug into the rock is a true love’s nest.

Micalona is the only restored Genoese tower on the island where visitors can stay and enjoy 360 degree ocean and countryside views.

“The property is not overlooked so one can enjoy the plunge pool as nature intended with stunning views over the sea” writes a former guest.

Tour de Micalona © Jean-Pierre Amet

Regardless of where you choose to stay, there are innumerable sensual pleasures to enjoy on any budget in Corsica: the constant scent of wild rosemary, myrtle, juniper, lavender and other herbs that fills the air, exquisite food, incredible wines and a bewildering variety of landscapes.

The post Corsica’s Sexiest Summer Villas appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

Planning Ahead

If possible, avoid the months of July and August when room rates are at their peak and finding suitable accommodations may be difficult. Instead, try to visit during mid season, (April-June, September-October) for the most pleasant weather and affordable room rates.

Expect to pay about €89 a night for a 3 star hotel during mid season. Hotel rates usually include taxes and VAT. Lower rates can be found in two star hotels, which usually lack air conditioner, (not a big problem if you avoid traveling during the hot summer months).

Inland Corsica

Venture into the interior of the island and enjoy the crisp mountain air and abundant streams and waterfalls.

You don’t have to travel far to see ancient villages with cobblestone streets and old chapels. Traditional villages like Calenzana, Montemaggiore and Zilia are only a minutes away by car from the seaside resort of Calvi and offer spectacular views of the coastal plain and the bay of Calvi below.

In these inland locations, away from the touristy, beach resorts visitors can often find inexpensive lodging and meals.

See Corsica Day Trips for more sightseeing suggestions.

Getting to Corsica

You can fly to Corsica from most European cities or catch a ferry from several harbors in Italy and France. Corsica is serviced by four airports located in Calvi, Bastia, Ajaccio and Figari, near Bonifacio.

Corsica By Sea

Traveling by ferry from mainland France or Italy provides a convenient and inexpensive way to visit Corsica. If you’re traveling through Italy, Corsica Ferries offers several links to the island with departures from Civitavecchia (in the summer), Livorno and Savona all year round. The island of Sardinia is only 7.5 miles (12km) from Corsica by ferry.

Driving in Corsica

I highly recommend renting a car to explore the island. If you are traveling from North America or Australia, Auto Europe will most likely offer you the best deal in car rentals.

Accommodations

Corsica offers a wide range of accommodations from campsites to four star hotels and a variety of choices in weekly rentals including holiday villas, apartments, B&Bs and rural farms.

Inexpensive Meals

If you stay in an apartment or holiday villa you can save money on meals.

For breakfast and lunch, stock up on delicious food and enjoy outdoor picnics. A baguette, some fresh cheese, prosciutto slices, locally grown fruits and a few chocolate croissants can last you until dinner time.

In Corsica, some of the most exquisite delicacies are found in fresh, open markets and small shops. Traditional Corsican charcuterie is prepared with the meat of free-roaming pigs that feed on acorns, chestnuts and maquis, a wild, aromatic bush endemic to the island.

Corsican wines are one of the island’s best kept secrets. Despite its small size, Corsica has eight AOC wine regions producing wines that continue to garner recognition in Europe.

Gites-de-france.com Family accommodations, B&Bs, self-catering

The post Corsica Budget Travel Tips appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

Nestled in the heart of Corsica, fifteen minutes south of Corte on route N193, is Casa Agostino Giafferri, a Bed and Breakfast located in the village of Poggio di Venaco.

The property overlooks the Bozio mountains, a remote area located between the Tavignano Valley and la Castagniccia, and it is a place where artists, researchers, designers, and business people frequently gather.

Casa Giafferri is equipped with meeting facilities, a projection room, a concert hall and Internet access. Annette Luciani, the owner, lived in the U.S. for 20 years and speaks English.

Photo by: Kelly Summers

If you want to enjoy delicious homemade food, let Mme. Luciani delight you with her traditional Corsican dishes, made with fresh, home grown fruits and vegetables.

Photo by: Kelly Summers

The Corsican cédrat (shown in this picture) is a citrus fruit used to make an after-dinner liqueur and to garnish meats, salads and desserts. Corsican cédrats or citrons are unique for their superior size and taste due to the richness of the soil and their geographical location on the island, where nearby hills protect them from cold winds.

The Town of Venaco

When driving between Ajaccio and Corte, one of my favorite places to stop for lunch is Restaurant de la Place, located in the town square, off of the main road, for its hearty meals and affordable prices.

Venaco has easy access to hiking trails, a horse riding stable and local artisan shops. The town can be reached by train and it is a favorite with hikers in the Summer.

Room rates are reasonable, (80 Euros a night with breakfast included).

Languages: French, English, Italian.

Location

Local Attractions

La Restonica – Outdoor Paradise in the Heart Corsica

www.mattandkellysummers.blogspot.com is the personal blog of Kelly Summers where she currently writes about her stay in Corsica. The cute girl in the photo is her daughter Sadie, standing next to her dad, Matt Summers.

The post Charming Bed & Breakfast in the Heart of Corsica appeared first on Corsica Journeys.

Horse-backriding provides an authentic outdoor experience without having to hike or carry a backpack.

Travelers can try horse riding for a day (90€ per person), or join a four day (450€ per person) or a seven day excursion (800€ per person) and discover a hidden side of Corsica few tourists get to see. (Prices may vary. I’ve listed these here just to give you an idea). These rates are usually all inclusive.

Horseback riding trips are available in various skill levels so that even beginners can enjoy the experience. In addition to safety, the company of an experienced tour guide is essential to discover the best spots on the island.

What to Bring

If you’re going to ride for several days at a minimum you should come prepared with a hat, sunblock and appropriate clothing. Wear pants to protect your skin from constant friction instead of shorts but do not wear heavy jeans.

Always carry a good supply of water, about 1-2 liters per person. Even though there are numerous mountain springs on the island, you don’t want to come off the horse every time you need a drink.

The tour company will give you a detailed list of what to bring, depending on the duration and difficulty of the itinerary.

A Changing Scenery

Travelers can find opportunities for riding in almost every corner of Corsica.

In Cap Corse, there is a trail between Sisco and Luri and further north from Macinaggio to the West coast of the peninsula.

La Balagne offers trails in the heart of the forest of Tartaigne and Bonifatu over part of the Tra mare e monti (between sea and mountain) hiking trail.

The Desert of Agriates, near St. Florent, is one of the best spots for horse backriding over secluded beaches.

In the center of the island, near Corte, the farm inn L’Albadu, offers rides and simple accommodations.

One can ride along the sea from Propriano on the Gulf of Valinco all the way to the village of Bonifacio, in the extreme south, while galloping along deserted, sandy beaches.

The area of Alta-Rocca offers the chance to ride over snow covered peaks until the beginning of Spring. From the foret de l’Ospedale to Porto-Vecchio, riders can enjoy mountain scenery while slowly descending to the sea through pine forests and maquis covered hills.

Equestrian Centers in Corsica

There are more than 35 equestrian centers in Corsica and many of them are within reach of the main tourist areas. Most of these centers do not have a web site though. The best way to find them is to inquire at the local tourist offices.

When driving, look for the words cheval (horse) and centre équestre.

These are just some of the companies that offer guided tours in Corsica:

www.randonnee-equestre-corse.com

www.randochevalcorse.fr

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Below is a quick preview of what you’ll find in Corsica.

• Charming fishing ports and marinas, inviting outdoor cafés, fresh markets, ancient mountain villages, warm, friendly people.
• Hiking trails to match all fitness levels and diverse scenery from gentle coastal paths to the most grueling trail in all of Europe, the GR20, a 14 day hike that traverses Corsica from North to South through the highest summits on the island.



© Celine Ragonnet

• Unspoiled beauty combined with the safety and infrastructure of a developed nation. Corsica is virtually crime-free, safe for single woman traveling solo and families with children.
• The taste of Pietra beer, brewed from chestnut flour, Orezza natural mineral water, Italian gelati stands, delicious cheese and fine liquours made from local herbs and wild fruits.
• Innumerable attractions within a short driving distance. You can start the day on a secluded beach, drive to the mountains and enjoy alpine scenery and authentic Corsican food in a mountain village, then head back to the coast through narrow, twisted highways overlooking the ocean and end the day in a harbour, on an open-air café.



• Water everywhere. Rivers, natural mountain springs, waterfalls, long stretches of beach.
• The sky is bluer and cleaner in Corsica. More than one third of the island is a natural park.
• Rich history. Due to its strategic location on the Med, Corsica has been invaded and occupied over the centuries by Etruscans, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, Moors, Catalonians, Germanic tribes, Saracens, Pisans, Genoese and finally the French.

The music of Corsica reflects this mix of ethnic influences, the long lamenting sounds remind us of Spanish flamenco quejios (laments) and Middle Eastern sounds.

Corsican Music

Corsican music is mostly performed by men. Their songs praise the beauty of the island, lament the loss of freedom and national identity and reflect an intense love for the homeland. This music appeals to many audiences, even if they can’t comprehend the lyrics, I believe because it’s filled with intense emotion.

I’ve included a small sample of the rich and unique sounds of Corsica below.

I don’t know the Corsican language, but I know enough Italian to make out a few of the words and phrases.

The song opens up with this verse: When will they remember or realize that this land is mine? When will I have my country returned to me?

You get the idea…This is a proud, nationalistic song filled with raw energy. The name of this group is Voce di Gravona (Voice of Gravona).

Note: Only a minority of the population wishes to gain independence from France. Corsicans are warm and friendly towards tourists and they are friendly towards Americans. Even though they liberated themselves from fascism during WWII, they appreciate and remember the assistance they received from Allied forces (in the form of weapons and ammunition) which enabled them to do the job.

For more information see the links under sub-heading Corsica Travel Guide.

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Timeless Corsica

There’s been a lot of new construction on the island in recent years, particularly in some areas near Ajaccio, Calvi, Bastia and Porto-Vecchio, but the change in Corsica’s landscape has been rather slow compared to the rate of growth in other parts of the world.

Driving through Cap Corse, on the west coast

In Corsica, small hotels, restaurants, groceries, bakeries, wineries and other family owned businesses are often passed down from one generation to the next. For this reason, travel information tends to remain current, for the most part, and you can be sure to receive the same or similar quality of service at a hotel or restaurant for years.

Recently, I came across these images of downtown Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, which clearly show not much has changed in the past 100 years. The old postcard dates from November 2, 1906. (Click the photo below to enlarge).

Credit: www.American-in-Corsica.com

Mountain villages and hamlets, like Sant’Antonino below, have managed to maintain their authentic old world feel.

Corsica offers sustainable and responsible tourism, with roughly two-thirds of the island occupied by a natural park, a green oasis where hikers, rock climbers, kayakers and other outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy active sports in all seasons.  Corsicans proudly protect their traditions, their language and their island.

Above is the entrance to the fortified Haute Ville (upper town) of Bonifacio.

Despite attracting an international yacht crowd, Bonifacio has managed to preserve its authentic character with very little modern development.

Corsica offers an authentic travel experience, unspoilt beauty and superb cuisine, at a price most travelers can afford.

Photo credits: Unless otherwise indicated, all ancient photos above belong to: www.cpa-corse.com

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Mediterranean Beaches

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Sea urchins are abundant along the Mediterranean and can often be seen in shallow, rocky waters. Not surprisingly, they find their way into many local dishes (including appetizers, pasta and stews), in countries from Portugal to Greece.

Since the waters in Corsica are crystal clear and most of the sea urchins are black (at least the ones I’ve seen) they’re very easy to spot and pick up. (This is one reason why I usually wear water shoes).

The locals in Corsica prefer to eat them freshly picked, right near the beach with bread and a chilled bottle of white wine.

The edible part of this spiny creatures consists of five bright orange lobes that are very soft and tasty, (not hard and rubbery like conch or squid).

Sea urchin fishing is regulated in Corsica and only permitted from December 1st through the end of March. It is important to respect these rules both for consumer safety (less risk of contamination) and to preserve the population of sea urchins along the Corsican coast.

In mainland France and on the island of Corsica sea urchins are considered a treat for New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Sea urchins are present in other parts of the world as well including the US, Canada, Chile and Japan. If you enjoy sushi, sea urchins can be found in the menu of many Japanese restaurants (look for “Uni”).

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Do you dream of doing some extended travel abroad but feel you lack the resources to do so? There are a number of creative ways to fund a long term stay abroad.

This post explores three ways in which you can enjoy an extended visit to Corsica, but you could apply and expand these suggestions to visit other destinations around the world as well.

1. Volunteer in a Farm

This is a great way to pay for a portion of your travel (free room and board) while immersing in the local culture and helping the environment.

Currently there are several hosts in Corsica, France that are registered with Help Exchange. You may want to check with WWOOF and Workaway as well.

Advance booking is always recommended especially in the summer months.

Some of the tasks include vegetable gardening, weeding, irrigation, fencing, track repairs, logging, brush clearance, mowing, general maintenance, various small construction and building projects.

2. Work Online

If you’re a knowledge worker (web designer, graphic designer, writer etc.) and you’re willing to do a bit of homework and planning you could fund your travels while working.

There are cyber cafes in almost every town in Corsica. In addition many hotels and even some campsites offer free WiFi. In many hotels though, WiFi is only available at the hotel lobby.

Corsica is on Paris time, exactly 6 hours ahead of EST in the U.S. which makes it possible to stay connected with clients and colleagues.

There are dozens of sites devoted to the topic of lifestyle design and nomadic living offering many tips, articles and eBooks on the subject.

* NuNomad

One caveat: It may be difficult to sit in a hotel lobby or a smoky café, just minutes away from the ocean while typing away at a laptop for hours (while spending Euros).

For this reason, you may want to buy some free time by saving enough money to support yourself and your travel expenses for one or two months (or longer) prior to your trip, or limit your projects and the number of hours you plan to work each week so you can enjoy the sights.

3. Work for ClubMed

There are two ClubMed villages in Corsica open only during Spring and Summer.

In general, you don’t have to be in top physical shape to work at these villages (in contrast with some adventure tour companies) since most travelers who stay at ClubMed in Corsica are either families with children or people age 65 and older.

Usually to work for ClubMed you need to speak at least two languages: English and French. (If you have a specific technical skill or if you are a certified scuba diving, sailing or ski instructor then being bilingual may not be mandatory). The pay may not be great, but you get to stay in some fabulous locations with all expenses paid.

Normally, this employment option is only open to European and African citizens from former French colonies.

US and Canadian citizens when hired are normally sent to ClubMed resorts in North America, Mexico and the Caribbean.

www.clubmedjobs.com

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Lavender Flowers

Corsican honey varies based on the season, source vegetation and whether it is made from flower nectars or miellat (called honeydew in English), a thick liquid composed of liquid bee excrement and rich in sugars and amino acids.

Honeys made from miellat are darker and more concentrate (with less water and a higher sugar content).

Apiculture in Corsica

Beekeeping in Corsica dates back to antiquity. During the Roman Empire, about 180 BC, Corsica had to pay a tax equivalent to 90 tons of beeswax as a tribute to Rome.

Today, Corsican beekeepers incorporate modern breeding methods with their traditional, ancient practices. These skills combined with a generous abundance and variety of native flowers provide all the necessary elements to support an industry that is one of the world’s sweetest art forms and one the backbones of agriculture. (See “Honey Facts” below).

The chestnut tree, also considered the tree of life in Corsica, has played an important role in Corsica’s economy, providing a basic fuel and food source to humans and farm animals alike. In Corsica chestnuts are used to make cookies, pastries, beer, jams and honey.

Honeys in Corsica tend to be full-bodied, complex (simultaneously sweet and bitter) with hints of herbs, and very aromatic.

The maquis, a wild bush endemic to the island which includes rosemary, sage, thyme, mint and lavender, lends Corsican honey an unmistakable taste and color.

Types of Honey

Six different types of honey are produced throughout the year in Corsica, namely:

Printemps (Spring), Maquis de printemps (Spring Maquis), Miellats du maquis (Maquis Honeydew), Châtaigneraie (Chestnut), Maquis d’été (Summer Maquis), and Maquis d’automne (Autumn Maquis).

I don’t get carried away by these fancy designations. Small independent producers sell their honeys at local markets and I find them all to be very tasty. I’ve even bought honey jars that had no label and I’ve been very pleased with the quality.

Corsican honey is exquisite with goat or ewe cheese or served with hot cereal, toast and tea.

Four Amazing Facts About Honey

Next time you sample some honey remember:

• Honey bees are the only insects that produce food for humans.
• It is estimated that about a third of the food in an average grocery store, as well as a large portion of the produce department, depends on honey bee pollination.
• Honey bees visit approximately two million flowers to make one pound of honey.
• To produce 2 pounds of honey, bees travel a distance equal to 4 times around the earth.

(Source: www.blueridgehoneycompany.com

No doubt, bees and beekeepers play an important role in the ecological health of our planet.

Where to Buy

Corsican Products

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Corsican Grastronomy

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Temperatures range from 4 to 15 degrees Celsius (40 to 60 degrees F.) and the mountain summits are crowned with snow.

Most beaches are deserted in the Fall and though the water is a bit chilly for my taste, I get around this problem by wearing a wet suit when bathing on the beach. Armed with a second skin I can enjoy Corsica almost anytime of the year.

When traveling in late Fall, it is advisable to bring appropriate clothing like sweaters, long sleeve shirts and jackets.

Without the tourist crowds or the intense Summer heat, Autumn time in Corsica offers a nice opportunity to explore villages and interact with the locals in a more relaxed way.

Another big plus of visiting the island during off-season is being able to find bargain priced accommodations and more vacancies.

Winter Sports in Corsica

From December to March snow accumulation in the central part of the island turns the Niolu valley into a winter wonderland, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

The Niolu valley, at the foot of the highest peaks in Corsica, the Paglia Orba on the left (shaped like a bird’s beak) and Lake Calacuccia in the foreground. – © Marie Taddei

Corsican Delicacies

The cold season is a fine time to enjoy sanglier (wild boar), charcuterie products like saucisson and figatelli, Brocciu (Corsican fresh cheese), and seasonal fruits like the Corsican clementine, the only clementine produced in France available on markets between November and January.

Calacuccia – Getting There

From highway N193, route D84 leads to the mountain village of Calacuccia.

Another nearby location for cross-country skiing is Haut-Asco, further north on N193 past the town of Ponte Leccia, on route D147 along the Asco river. This road dead ends into a park that leads  to some of Corsica’s highest peaks.

Visitors can find accommodations in Calacuccia or in Corte, located south of Calacuccia on route N193.

Corsica Winter Sports

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Winter in Corsica
Corsican Charcuterie

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