The Wild Isle: An Off-Season Escape to Corsica

Make sure to fuel up at breakfast this morning as today you’ll be embarking on a snowshoeing adventure on the Ese plateau, just an hour’s drive from Ajaccio. Home to the southernmost resort in France, this beautiful plateau is covered in a blanket of snow when the cooler winter temperatures hit the island, instantly turning into a playground for ski and snowshoe enthusiasts. Once you’re suited and booted in the appropriate equipment, head into the mountains for a gentle hike with an experienced local guide. This is a great opportunity to learn the tricks of snowshoeing, as well as to learn a little more about your mountainous surroundings. This afternoon, you’ll drive back to Ajaccio where you can spend some time relaxing at the hotel before a hearty meal. We could also arrange for you to enjoy a private walking tour of the centre of town to discover Ajaccio’s rich historical heritage.

Today, you’ll be swapping the southern coast for the northern hills, travelling two-and-a-half hours through the heart of Corsica to the historic town of Casabianca. The road passes straight through the mountain stronghold of Corte, which is well-worth taking a break at to explore. On arrival in Casabianca, check in for two nights in a beautiful hotel surrounded by classic Mediterranean flora. Spend the rest of today soaking in your new surroundings. We’d recommend heading into town for a wander and an aperitif before dinner at the hotel this evening.

Make sure to leave room in your tummy at breakfast this morning as today you’ll be heading out with a private driver-guide for a culinary expedition in the mountains. Hop into a 4x4 and wind into the hills, stopping off at small hilltop villages along the way. At this time of year, smoke billows from the chimneys, making the scenery even more magical. Then it’s time for the food. Settle into a cosy traditional restaurant to enjoy a menu made up of the island’s signature dishes: charcuterie, veal tianu, goat's cheese roasted with thyme, figatelli, chestnut flour polenta, farmhouse cheeses and, of course, exquisite wines.

It’s time to head down out of the mountains to your final destination in Corsica: the historic seaside city of Bastia. Settle in for two nights in a cost hotel nestled in the heart of the citadel. The rest of today is yours to spend getting a taste of life in Bastia. We recommend heading to the Old Port to enjoy some nibbles and glass of wine in one of the many charming bars and restaurants before heading back to the hotel for a delicious meal and a relaxing evening.

Your last full day in Corsica is all about discovering the rich history and heritage of Bastia. After a delicious breakfast this morning, head into the maze of narrow streets that make up the old town in the company of a knowledgeable local guide. Wander through the Old Port, through to market square and finally the citadel. Here you’ll visit the Museum of History and Fine Arts, located inside the Palace of the Governors. The museum is full of fascinating exhibitions that depict the past of Corsica and its connection to Genoa and the Mediterranean from antiquity to the 19th century. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the magnificent oratory of Santa Croce. Alternatively, if you fancy spending one last day in the wilderness, we could arrange for you to embark on a guided hike along the Cap Corse peninsula.