- Embark on a road trip around Corsica, cruising between fragrant maquis (scrubland) and crystal clear waters and stopping at two charming hotels
- The itinerary includes a walking tour of Calvi with a private guide and a day at sea sailing to the Lavezzi archipelago
- Convertible hire car and our local Concierge service: all reasons to travel with us
- Hiking in the Aiguilles de Bavella or exploring La Balagne: personalise your trip
Contact one of our specialists + 44 (0) 20 3958 6120
SOAK UP CORSICA'S RELAXED WAY OF LIFE
Napoleon Bonaparte once famously said that he would recognise his native land from afar, even with his eyes closed, because of the island's sweet-smelling maquis (shrubland). Corsica's stunning contrasting landscape, with its contours and mountains, can be appreciated as soon as you arrive on the island. From the luscious region of La Balagne to the wild south coast, this trip winds between turquoise gulfs and villages nestled in maquis scented with lavender, thyme and myrtle. Up in the hills, stroll through the charming town of Porto-Vecchio and climb to the chapel of Notre-Dame de la Serra for spectacular views of Calvi. In the south of the island, crystal clear waters and sandy coves lined with pine trees are some of the island's best spots for swimming and relaxation.
TWO WONDERFUL HOTELS IN CALVI AND PORTO-VECCHIO
To ensure you have the ultimate relaxing experience during your trip, we have carefully chosen two fantastic hotels with beautiful locations, coveted restaurants and gentle Mediterranean vibes. Located a few minutes from Calvi and its famous citadel, at the foot of the mountains, this luxury hotel enjoys spectacular views over the azure sea. Nestled in the heart of seven acres of park land, this former Genoese estate dates back to the 18th century and offers a magnificent but relaxed setting. Head to the private beach or swimming pool for a refreshing dip. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the hotel's very own range of unique organic treatments created from essential oils, including immortelle (otherwise known as the curry plant), myrtle and Barbary fig. In the south of the island, stay in a stunning hotel located right on the coast, overlooking the majestic Gulf of Porto-Vecchio. This beautiful, ochre-coloured hotel features elegant Mediterranean-style rooms, each with a private terrace overlooking luscious gardens. An idyllic beach stretches beyond the gardens, making your stay all the more delightful.
YOUR TRIP
Throughout the trip, enjoy a convertible hire car so you can soak up all the breathtaking sights that Corsica has to offer. A few highlights have already been included in your itinerary, including a tour of Calvi with a private guide and a day at sea sailing to the Lavezzi archipelago. You'll also be able to tailor your trip to your interests; so, if you have any last-minute requests or ideas, just contact our local Concierge.
Route
Flight to Calvi
Arrive at Calvi airport and pick up your hire car. Three-night stay in a magnificent estate at the gates of Calvi. The hotel's excellent restaurant offers a delicious culinary adventure, including milk-fed lamb, fresh fish, Nustrale oysters, locally-caught langoustines from Cap Corse and home-grown garden vegetables as well as a beautiful selection of the best Corsican wines to accompany these mouthwatering dishes.
Calvi
Included in the itinerary - Walking tour of Calvi with a private guide. Calvi, one of the prettiest places in Corsica, proudly overlooks a sparkling bay surrounded by mountains. The citadel, perched on a rocky cliff, stretches between the Gulf of Calvi and the Gulf of Revellata, amid a peaceful landscape. Enjoy a walking tour with a private guide to explore some of the town's wonders, including the cobbled streets of the old town and St. John the Baptist Cathedral. Calvi preserves countless traces of its rich history, from fascinating prehistoric sites to impressive Baroque churches.
Option - Private tour of La Balagne.
Calvi - Porto-Vecchio
Head to the south of the island. Four-night stay in a hotel with a wonderful setting overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Porto-Vecchio. The indoor swimming pool and spa are dedicated to wellness, the perfect place to pamper both body and mind. Enjoy lunch on the sun-drenched terrace under the shade of towering umbrella pine trees.
Things to see and do - Wander down to the port from the cliff-top citadel - Relax in the shade in the town's main square 'Place de la Republique' - Escape to the white sandy beaches of Palombaggia and Santa Giulia - Experience the vibrant nightlife, hopping between trendy bars and excellent restaurants.
Porto-Vecchio
Included in the itinerary - Day boat trip to the Lavezzi archipelago. This sea adventure from Porto-Vecchio explores a paradise of white sand and rocks scattered artfully among turquoise waters. A nature reserve since 1982, the six main islands and the small surrounding islands form a stunning archipelago that attracts walkers and sailing enthusiasts, eager to appreciate waters as crystal clear as those in the Caribbean.
A la carte
PRIVATE TOUR OF LA BALAGNE
Often referred to as the 'Garden of Corsica', the undulating region of La Balagne, nestled between the island's stunning coastline and mountains, is famous for its fertile soil. Here, charming villages with real Corsican character cling to the hills and the economy is based mainly on olive trees and olive oil. Stop to visit a local traditional mill and then enjoy lunch in the sprawling Renucci estate with its beautiful gardens. End the day with a visit to the quaint village of Pigna, famous for its arts, crafts and stunning views over the Gulf of Calvi.
Option
HIKING IN THE BAVELLA MOUNTAINS WITH A PRIVATE GUIDE
With its mountains, pass and forests, Bavella is a brilliant example of what makes Corsica's mountainous landscape so unique, namely the dramatic, colourful rock formations – ranging from bright red to dark grey – all dotted with huge forests of black pine trees. The most magical views, especially of the Aiguilles de Bavella (Bavella Needles) can be seen from the Col de Bavella pass, in the heart of Corsica's Regional Natural Park. It's also the starting point for hikes of all levels of experience, including the geological wonder of 'Trou de la Bombe'. This popular hiking attraction is a one-hour walk in the shade of pine trees and a great way to experience high mountain terrain safely. The hike then continues along the spectacular GR20 trail to the Paliri Refuge, where you can admire the climber's paradise of Punta Tafunata (literally 'Pierced Peak').
Optional
A Rough Idea of Price
- Outbound flight to Calvi - Return flight from Figari
- Airline taxes and fuel surcharge
- Car hire for seven days
- Three-night stay in Calvi in a double room with breakfast
- Four-night stay in Porto-Vecchio in a double room with breakfast
- Private half-day tour of Calvi with a guide
- Private boat trip to the Lavezzi archipelago
- Our local Concierge service
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