100% customisable travel idea
France - Corsica
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Pick up your rental car on arrival in Calvi and stay for two nights in the heart of the town. Realising that a panoramic view surpasses everything else, the hotel has wisely given every room and suite a terrace overlooking either the pool or the citadel. As for the upper floors and the rooftop bar, they have stunning views of the bay of Calvi, with Monte Grossu as a backdrop. The rather old looking walls of the building conceal bright and fresh spaces with an understated contemporary feel. The charming little pool is perfect for relaxing whenever you want, or you can pamper yourself in the wellness area.
Proudly overlooking its dazzling bay, surrounded by mountains, Calvi is one of the most beautiful places in Corsica. The citadel, perched on the promontory, juts out between the Gulf of Calvi and the Gulf of Revellata, surrounded by unspoiled landscape.
Not to be missed - Ile-Rousse, a delightful little seaside town and harbour - Saint-Florent, gateway to the incredible Agriates Desert - Saleccia beach, a remote bit of paradise accessible by boat and well worth the effort - Sant Ambrogio marina - Algajola and Spano island off the coast, renowned for their beaches and marine life - Corbara, Pigna or Sant Antonino in the hills, famous for their artisans, baroque architecture and extraordinary views.
Optional extra - Calvi by night with a local.
Drive towards the heart of the island, heading for Corte. The citadel stands proudly at the foot of Monte Rotondo and acts a crossroads between the two sides of the island. The surrounding area immerses you in Corsican nature, from the crystal clear pools of the Restonica and Tavignano to the majestic landscapes of Melo and Capitello lakes. Stay for two nights outside the town , in the midst of the Corsica Regional Natural Park. The charming hotel consists of traditional stone buildings set across 10 hectares (25 acres) of maquis scrub and pine forest, along the U Vechju river. During the day, enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool or on relax one of the river’s beaches. The stunning location is the perfect base for visiting the island’s other treasures, such as Cateraghju beach or the Restonica gorges. The hotel has a passion for art, adorned as it is with works by contemporary artists, and regularly hosts eclectic events and performances. In the evening, the restaurant serves traditional Corsican food using the best local products, and has an excellent selection of local wines.
On your schedule - Private tour of Corte To get a feel for the city of Pascal Paoli, the best way is to immerse yourself in it. The museum is a good place to start. After that, lose yourself in the narrow streets lined with modest houses. While your guide tells you all about the local architecture, your encounters with Corte’s various artisans make the tour even more rewarding. The walk is broken up with short stops for wine tasting.
Optional extra - Guided hike in the hills around Corte.
Drive to Piana, through landscapes of waterfalls and lakes. As you arrive, the picturesque village comes into view with its white houses arranged like an amphitheatre, overlooked by the beautiful Saint Marie Church. Stay for two nights in the hills above the Gulf of Porto, in the heart of the famous Calanques de Piana. From the hotel, there are magnificent view of the coves and Scandola Nature Reserve, especially from the restaurant terrace, bathed in the golden light of sunset.
On your schedule - Scandola Nature Reserve boat trip. A true geological wonder, the reserve is the first site in France dedicated to the preservation of both terrestrial and marine natural heritage. It is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Scandola peninsula and its unique landscapes were formed by an ancient volcano that collapsed into the sea. The sight of the reddish rock reflected in the turquoise waters is sublime. On this trip discover one of the last truly wild enclaves of the Mediterranean and its remarkable birdlife, including the osprey and peregrine falcon. The cruise also includes a stop in the small village of Girolata for a refreshing swim. This beautiful hamlet can only be reached on foot or by sea so it's no surprise it only has about 15 residents who live there year round. It sits on one of the most beautiful bays in the world.
Drive south via Cargese, a Greek hamlet with a white Orthodox church, and the Gulf of Sagone. Stay for two nights in the old town of Ajaccio. The citadel is right there. And the sea is right under the citadel. All the rooms have either sea views or city views. Either way, they are utterly charming. The decor is simple, with a decidedly modern touch. The colour palette features white, black, grey and gold. The finest materials have been used throughout. In the rooms the amenities are impeccable and you won't be lacking for comfort. The restaurant on the top floor has a rooftop bar. Beautifully executed Mediterranean cuisine is served in the restaurant. And the bar is the perfect place to enjoy cocktails and views of the dazzling sea at sunset.
The best way to explore Ajaccio is by strolling through its narrow streets. Wander from the baroque cathedral overlooking the sea, to the citadel with its deep moats, and on to the small fishing port where colourful boats wait to set out to sea. The Gulf of Ajaccio is home to beautiful fine sandy beaches and you’ll find plenty of water activities on offer such as scuba diving, sailing or boat trips. Head inland if you want to go canyoning, quad biking, hiking or mountain biking.
Optional extra - Napoleon's cave experience with a Corsican meal.
Drive to Levie, where you stay for two nights at a charming farmhouse set among the fragrant Corsican maquis. The buildings blend harmoniously with the garden and the traditional stonework is combined with modern comfort. You will immediately feel at home! Check into your room and relax into this place that instantly feels familiar. The indoor pool with its large picture windows, is a real delight. Delicious dishes are prepared in the kitchen, using the best local produce, some of it straight from the farm and the vegetable garden.
Levie is a small village nestled in the heart of the Alta Rocca. This mountainous region inland from Porto-Vecchio is well known to hikers. The stars of the show are the Bavella Needles, one of the most remarkable sites in the Corsican mountains, and the picturesque village of Zonza, perched facing the rocky pinnacles. From the small villages to the sheep barns, this is where you find the untouched, authentic Corsica.
Optional extra - Full day hiking tour in the Bavella Massif with a private guide.
Drive to Bonifacio and stay for two nights just outside the town, in a small charming hotel with the feel of a guesthouse. In the heart of the maquis, overlooking the sea, this property charms guests with its stunning location, impeccable service and very comfortable rooms, all with private terraces. The outdoor infinity pool and the homemade breakfast are an added bonus!
On your schedule - Sunset cruise. Step on board in the late afternoon for an unusual cruise, set to gentle background music. If you want, you can stop for a refreshing dip in the beautiful Saint Cyprien bay. The boat then docks in a small, secluded cove sheltered from view, where a Corsican aperitif is served. Time seems to stand still in this very special moment.
Bonifacio sits proudly on the coast, at the southern tip of the island, perched on its rocky spur. Its medieval citadel overlooks a landscape of steep cliffs, coves and sea caves. Below it is the port and on the other side of the Bonifacio Strait lies Sardinia. Beaches are scattered everywhere. Inland, Freto's plains and mountains are perfect for hiking or trying out canyoning. Here you can explore nature and discover a rural culture deeply rooted in hard work and patience.
Optional extra - Bonifacio with a local.
Return the car and return journey home.
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