Corsica
Posted by Jill Bowen on Thu 21st June 2007 at 02:42 AM, Filed in Europe
Corsica is aptly named the ‘Isle of Beauty’ by all who visit this beautiful and diverse island.
The word ‘Corsica’ is derived from a Phoenician word meaning ‘cloaked in forests’. How very true! The mountains are covered in chestnut trees; within these forest areas wild boar, cattle and goats freely roam. Tumbling mountain streams and waterfalls from the snow-capped mountaintops cascade down to the sea below. The whole Island has an unhurried ambience, unspoiled and un-crowded. A gem waiting to be explored.
Napoleon once said he could recognise his Island with his eyes closed. He was referring to the marquis – the acres of heath that send up their perfume of myrtle, wild mint and juniper in the gentle breeze.
10 reasons why you should go:
- Amazing mountain scenery
- Lush green vegetation
- The perfume of the marquis
- Haunting traditional music
- Fascinating history
- Beautiful sandy beaches and coves
- Excellent food
- Unspoilt by tourism
- No high rise hotels and apartment blocks
- Nothing like other Mediterranean Islands
1 reason why you might not want to go
If you suffer from vertigo! The roads are narrow, tortuously steep, littered with hairpin bends and dramatic overhangs.
Corsica has four airports – one in each corner of the Island. Very wise considering its mountainous interior.
The island can be split into the following regions, and each corner of the island is diverse with its own distinct character:
Calvi Region – North West – hosts a maritime reserve
- Bastia Region (including Cap Corse) – North East
- Porto Vecchio, Bonifacio region –South East
- Gulf of Ajaccio region – South West
- The Interior – or Mountain Region
If you go I really recommend you hire a car (if only for a few days) as the island has so much to offer. It’s almost a crime not to explore (at your leisure) the various regions. Link for discounted car hire:Transhire Link
Recommended Guide Books on Corsica:
Corsica - Eye Witness Guide - should really whet your apetite to go with excellent pictures and details about the different regions
Corsica - Cadogan Guide - entertaining and informative with interesting local stories and facts
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