Day 1 in Western Corsica

Welcome to the western region of Corsica! Upon arrival, make your transfer to your destination, arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

The area of western Corsica is home to the Scandola Nature Reserve and Les Calanches de Piana: two memorable areas that make this region unique.

Start your exploration of this part of Corisca in Piana, a russet-roofed village made even more colorful by its bright geranium displays and a Baroque church with fascinating frescoes. Once celebrated as `one of the prettiest villages in France`, Piana nevertheless remains small and relatively quiet.

The Calanches of Piana, the `Grand Canyon of Corsica`, can be explored by road by following the D81 road. It is one of the great drives of Europe and not to be missed if you are visiting this region of Corsica! There are various places where you can stop to admire the views and the rock formations. Because this area is so surreal, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stop in at the bar along the route with a terrace that looks out to the Calanches to enjoy some spectacular views. This is a perfect spot for a cup of coffee or a beer during your journey.

Alternatively, the Calanches can be explored on foot or by boat. There are various different walks to choose from. Walking is a fabulous way to take in the scenery and enjoy the views at a leisurely pace. If you decide to take a boat trip along the coast you will see the coastal caves of Capo Rosso (Red Cape).

End your day enjoying some local delicacies at one of the charming restaurants in Piana, or any of the nearby villages before heading back to your hotel for a restful night sleep.

Day 2 in Western Corsica

Start the day off early in the village of Porto, a small fishing village just below the steep Corsican Mountains and the Golfe de Porto. Perhaps less attractive than other cities on the coast, it represents nonetheless a strategic departure point either to reach the Reserve of Scandola and the Gulf of Girolata. Spend some time exploring Porto, grab some breakfast at one of the many cafes, stop in a few of the quaint shops and take a stroll through the bustling waterfront area.

From the marina in Porto take a boat trip to discover the Scandola Nature Reserve to explore the finest coastline of Corsica. This is where you`ll witness strange rock formations that emerge from the crystal clear sea in the Gulf of Girolata, and the coastline is indented with inlets and caves.

The scenery is amazingly beautiful, but especially so later in the afternoon, as the rocks catch the sun setting. Situated against the blue of the sea and sky, the colors and shapes are a breathtaking sight.

The Scandola reserve has an extensive range of sea birds. There are also established seal and dolphin colonies. Ospreys are starting to become well-known in the region as well, after great efforts by conservationists.

After an enjoyable boat excursion, head a few miles inland between the villages of Ota and Evisa to discover the perfectly preserved Genoese bridges, visible from the street, like the Pianella Bridge, the Azglia Bridge and the Ponte Vecchju. These are all reachable by a short walk through the gorges of Spelonca, on a part of the path which connects Calenzana and the small town of Cargese.

Cargese is a welcoming spot to end the day. Traces of its Hellenic heritage are still visible in the old market hall and Orthodox church, while the three sizeable beaches nearby: Peru, Menasina and Chiuni, are reminiscent of the best from the Greek islands. These sandy stretches are perfect for sundowners as you admire a beautiful red-hued horizon, although, as you may expect, the entire West Coast is famed for its sunsets.

Day 3 in Western Corsica

Start off your day with a visit to the village Calcatoggio located 7 miles from Ajaccio. The landscapes surrounding this village are beautiful and offer 6 miles of rocky coastline. Numerous paths allow you to leave to discover the convent of François-de-la-Mezzana, many water sports activities, and dive sites in the area.

Next, take a ride 7.5 miles east of Ajaccio, where you will come across Pointe la Parata, a rocky peninsula overlooking îles Sanguinaires (the Bloody Islands). Walking this area is a must! On top of the cliffs you will find one of the many ancient Corsican guard towers that used to protect the island from pirates. From the tower there are beautiful views over the entire La Parata.

Enjoy your last night in Corsica`s capital, Ajaccio. The city was the birthplace of Napoleon and you can learn about his legacy by visiting the birth home and museum. Spend some time taking in the city`s culture and history.

Additional Days in Western Corsica

Should you be able to spend additional days in the western region of Corsica enjoy some time at the many beaches on the south-west coast. Many of Corsica`s beaches are hidden coves accessible only on foot or by boat - there’s certainly something magical about exploring the coastal paths and stumbling across a deserted cove washed by the warm deep blue of the Mediterranean.

Your Last Day in Western Corsica

Depart your hotel for the train station, ferry or airport where you will head home or make your way to more Corsican adventures. Savor the memories of a very special time in the northeast region of Corsica.