What is Corsica Famous For?
Corsica is a stunning island situated in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea and also one of the 18 districts in France. The island is one of the popular travel destinations where backpackers go to experience stunning coastlines, dramatic mountains, beaches with crystal clear water and densely forested areas.
Located in the Italian Peninsula and French Mainland therefore the island boasts both Italian and French influences, especially its language, architecture and traditions. Additionally it is also a great place to learn local cultures, history and vibrant authentic cuisine options. From its epic landscapes, jaw dropping mountains, ancient towns and vibrant hiking trails, Corsica makes it the most visited travel destination in Europe.
Corsica History
Discussing the history of Corsica is a crucial task to understand more about Corsica Island since the place has a great historical background. Corsica passed a long, eventful and troubled history, where many powerful emperors conquered and ruled Corsica for its prosperity and people.
According to research, people started living on this island around 6,000 BC. Some aboriginal peoples started to make settlements in Corsica at least 8,000 years ago. Initially Torrean civilisation peoples established Ajaccio city and they built towers and many settlements.
After the historical First Punic War a major portion of Corsica went to the Roman province and they are exclusively used it to make iron, wood, and grow graphs for wine. Around 522 AD onwards the Byzantine Empire became part of the Island.
In 1200 BC Corsica was taken by the Greeks who arrived from Phocaea in Asia Minor. Again Corsica was invaded by the Romans in 200 BC and they made it a significant military base. Later the island was invaded by the North African Arabs in 900 AD and they stayed in Corsica until 1420, when France took control of the island. During 1789, Corsica was officially incorporated into France and Napoleon Bonaparte became First Consul of the French Republic.
Learn History While Visiting Landmarks
If you want to know more about its history, then you need to start your journey from Palombaggia Valley, a series of ancient houses dating back to 1800 BC. Another popular historical landmark is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte and Pasquale Paoli. Ajaccio is the capital of the island where Napoleon Bonaparte was born (a person who ruled France from 1799-1804 and 1804 to 1815).
Paoli is another notable historical figure often known as a well-respected statesman and patriot who played a crucial role for ending the Genoese rule of Corsica and for making reformative laws. Visiting ancient and historical landmarks like Bonifacio Citadel, Citadelle De Calvi, Fillitosa, Saint Florent Phare De La Pietra, and Ajaccio Cathedral are must see historical attractions.
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10 Best Places to Visit in Corsica, France
1. Calanques de Piana
Located in the southern part of the island, Les Calanques de Piana is a breathtaking attraction under Corsica. Nestled 400 meters above sea level, Calanques de Piana is a popular striking red granite cliffs which create surreal landscapes with unique shapes and color, called “Calanche”. UNESCO World Heritage site, more visible and breathtaking if you dare to take hiking at various hiking trails or take a car or transportation along the D81 road. More scenic landmark in the entire Island includes breathtaking coastal views along with its striking red formations. Do not skip to explore marine life and unique maquis shrub land which are close to this Calanques de Piana.
2. Scandola Nature Reserve
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Scandola Nature Reserve contains a total 900 hectares of land home to many beautiful dramatic cliffs, crystal clear waters and diverse marine life. Nature reserve for both terrestrial and marine natural heritages, showcasing geological wonders to the part of an ancient volcanic complex that partially collapsed into the sea. Designated as a reserve in 1975, today it is home to a number of bird species like ospreys, peregrine falcons, crested cormorants and golden eagles. Out of this 450 species of algae and the rest 200 species are fish.
3. Bonifacio
Bonifacio is a picture square town nestled on white limestone cliff with a stunning harbour and a medieval period town. Bonifacio always overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea, making it one of the breathtaking coastal settings in entire Europe. Since it is perched above the sea, it is always a pleasant town to enjoy spectacular views of Corsica’s coastlines and neighbouring island of Sardinia. Moreover, this ancient city contains citadel walls and ancient houses which appear to rise of sheer cliffs that are striated by the wind and waves. Founded in 830, where history lovers enjoy winding cobbled streets, lively squares and medieval monuments.
4. Ajaccio
Ajaccio is Corsica’s capital city and a popular historic landmark where renowned Napoleon Bonaparte was born. The city is steeped in history with many legendary figures set against the backdrop of stunning seascapes and rugged Corsican landscapes. Corsica’s largest city boasts the region’s best architecture, cuisine options, and traditional influences that creates the friendliest atmosphere to visitors. Moreover, backpackers will like the city’s vibrant markets, great historical sites, hiking trails, vineyards, and unique options of vine tours.
5. Cap Corse
Cap Corse is a scenic Peninsula with many beautiful charming villages, rugged coastlines and beautiful beaches. Located at Corsica’s northernmost point, considered one of the essential stops for voyage in Corsica. Since it is located in the island’s most densely populated area where visitors are more fortunate to explore remote villages of the island, small fishing ports and many hiking trails in maquis. Travelers could give more time for fishing, coastline with lonely beaches, Genoese towers and windmills.
6. Port Vecchio
Nestled between a natural lagoon and picture square old town, Port Vecchio or Palombaggia is a place blessed by the many beautiful beaches, mediaeval old town and lively nightlife. Port Vecchio offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure feelings from its impressive 16th century old fortifications to many adventure activities. This charming harbour town welcomes visitors from many bars, restaurants and boutiques, making it a seductive holiday destination for those who are looking for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visiting early or late summer could be a great idea to enjoy warm weather and avoid crowds.
7. Bastia
Another popular town in Corsica is situated in the north eastern region of the island. Renowned place for visitors who are looking to spend holidays, since it is blessed by the beaches, harbours, ancient monuments, natural beauties and mild Mediterranean climates. Bastia contains numerous Baroque churches, scorched earth buildings, old port, Romieu Garden, Market Square and Palace of the Governors. Never miss to visit Saint Jean Baptiste Church and majestic colourful facades houses which you can see throughout the city.
8. Calvi
Calvi is a most calm and picturesque town located on the northwest coast of Corsica. The island is known for beautiful beaches, natural beauties, unique cultures, and marina and picture square alleyways of historic citadel. Citadel is a stunning district and iconic attraction, raised on rocky promontory that faces the Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by the ochre colored walls. Calvi is also a busy port during the Roman era, served as an entry gate during the 13th century and today left as a symbol of architectural and cultural heritages of the island. If you visit Calvi with family members then you shouldn’t miss to visit Calvi beach, often known as children’s beach due to shallow waters and coastal train stops.
9. The Villages of Balagne
Balagne is a region filled with picturesque villages from varied contours and ranging mountains. Nestled a few kilometers off the coast, Balagne is an enchanting village called as ideal destination to escape bustling atmospheres and great place to step into the quiet and cool mountains atmospheres. The village offers more charming ambiances to nature lovers since it contains squares in the shade of plain trees, old stone houses and valleys with olive groves and granite spurs. The village is a great place to experience more authentic cuisine options and learn age old traditions of Corsican cultures.
10. The Lavezzi Archipelago
The Lavezzi Archipelago is a group of granite islands such as Lavezzi, Cavalla, Ratinu, and Piano. This is an incredible yet beautiful landmark in Corsica Island situated between turquoise and blue crystal clear waters shaped by the granite rocks through wind and sea effects. Archipelago is a nature protected reserve that allows visitors to see landscapes above waters, seascapes and sprawl of granite islands. Corsica Sud Croisieres help visitors to explore The Lavezzi Archipelago through accessible by boat and guided tours, and visitors can take stop and enjoy snorkel and spend time amidst of Lavezzu Island. Never forget to dine at any one of the quaint restaurants located within the island region.
Best Time to Visit Corsica
Since Corsica contains 20℃ of average temperature it helps us enjoy a mild Mediterranean climate throughout the year. The town witness’s long days of sunshine and little amount of rainfalls throughout the year making it a sunny weather travel destination.
But some activities are recommended to do at specific seasons such as summer season (usually starts from July to August) to help visitors to take walking, cycling and hiking too. Visiting during September is also a good idea to enjoy warm temperatures for beach activities and walking.
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