About Corsica
Corsica, often called the "Island of Beauty" (L'Île de Beauté), is a French territorial collectivity that rises abruptly from the Mediterranean Sea like a "mountain in the sea." It is the most mountainous island in the Mediterranean, featuring 120 peaks exceeding 2,000 meters. This dramatic topography creates spectacular landscapes, from the red granite cliffs of Piana to the pristine, pine-fringed beaches of Palombaggia and Santa Giulia.
Historically, Corsica is famous as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was born in the capital, Ajaccio. Despite being French since 1768, the island retains a fiercely independent spirit and a culture closer to Italian roots, with its own Corsican language and polyphonic singing traditions. The interior is covered in the "maquis," a fragrant, dense scrubland that Napoleon claimed he could smell from the sea.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Corsica to hike the GR20, considered one of the toughest and most beautiful long-distance trails in Europe. The fortified coastal towns of Bonifacio, perched precariously on limestone cliffs, and Calvi, with its imposing citadel, are highlights of any visit. Corsica's wild beauty, combined with its charcuterie, chestnuts, and distinct identity, makes it a captivating destination.