Let’s get some thing out of the way: Corsica isn’t always a secret, as a minimum now no longer to the elite of Europe and really well-traveled But it’s miles quietly protected—just like the antique Bordeaux on your friend’s dad’s plonk cellar: technically visible, however do not you dare contact it.
The elite of Europe (and yes, we are speakme old-cash Parisians, yacht-proudly owning Italians, and those who pronounce “villa” with a soft ‘L’) had been summering in Corsica for decades. And you? You had been likely distracted with the aid of using Santorini’s infinity swimming pools or Amalfi’s selfie spots. That’s fine. That’s what they need. Because Corsica is stored simply secret sufficient to stay wild, stunning, low-key, and refreshingly freed from seaside golf equipment with minimal spends that resemble loan payments.
So let’s smash their gatekeeping only a little, shall we? That is, so long as you promise to be an awesome traveler, and hold it stylish over there!
You is probably nevertheless wondering, in which is Corsica? And it is a completely legitimate question – maximum humans do not honestly know! It’s nestled underneath the gorgeous rivieras of France and Italy, and simply above some other hidden gem Mediterranean island, Sardinia (in which I stay 1/2 of of the year).
Corsica has an thrilling records of being owned and conquered with the aid of using diverse countries, however as of proper now, it’s miles owned with the aid of using France.
Corsica 101: What They Don’t Tell You
They communicate Corsican (that’s towards Italian than French), however French will do. A few well mannered terms get you far. English, now no longer a lot, ensure you’ve got got an eSIM set up to apply Google Translate.
Tourists are on the whole French, which makes it experience noticeably un-touristy to everyone else. That being said, please do not be loud or obnoxious there, they may stereotype you as a “loud American”, and side-eye you accordingly.
It’s now no longer inexpensive, however it is also now no longer Monaco. Think: “I splurge on quality, now no longer clout.” If you are on a budget, goal for one of the extra far off towns, just like the outskirts of Porto Vecchio.
Don’t anticipate wonderful service—if you’ve got heard the stereotype that French humans are not precisely friendly, it is quite correct here, however do anticipate sparkling seafood, heat sun, and a complete absence of traveler crowds.
Taking a Day Trip from Sardinia to Corsica
This is what I did due to the fact I went to Corsica remaining minute and could not locate any ferry departures that also had automobile spots available. Instead, I drove to Santa Maria di Gallura and took an afternoon ride on a boat.
Since it become remaining minute though, the simplest boat alternatives had been the RIB (rubber inflatable boats) which I shared with 3 families, and that wasn’t too awful. The awful part, for me, become the seems of pity as we handed all the mega yachts. Other than that, it become an awesome choice to get a flavor of Corsica in a single day.
Staying for Several Days? Excellent Choice
You have flavor. Corsica’s splendor is not simply withinside the beaches—it is the mountain villages, maquis-scented air, and the truth that you may consume Michelin-star-worth meals in an area in which turn flops also are acceptable.
What to Do in Corsica (Besides Smugly Knowing You’re at a Hidden Gem):
Beach-hop alongside the southern coast (Palombaggia, Rondinara, Saleccia in matter you are inclined to paintings for it), and additionally when you have a automobile. If you do not have a automobile, you would possibly need to choose the boat tours.
Go on a Boat Tour: This is an absolute must, a lot in order that I made a whole phase for it underneath!
Eat everything: all of the seafood, chestnut desserts, nearby cheeses that scent like a persons’ uncle however flavor like heaven. And of course, indulge your self in some glasses of French Champagne
Drive the coast: it is now no longer for the faint of heart (cliff edges, no guardrails, the occasional rogue goat), however it is stunning, and again, when you have a automobile.
Hike the GR20 or do not, however speak approximately it such as you had been thinking about it. This is an severe multi-day hike that without a doubt calls for an skilled guide!