Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
France – Corsica – Oletta – Corte – Propriano
100% customisable for you
Rise and shine: your top-to-tail road trip through Corsica starts today. Head to the airport, whizz through security and settle into the lounge for some complimentary nibbles and refreshments before departure. Flights to Oletta take just under two and a half hours – ideal for squeezing in a refresher on your French.
When you land, collect your hire car and hit the road to central Oletta, where you’ll check in for three nights at a delightfully charming hotel. Once you’ve dropped your bags and freshened up, venture out to tuck into your first dinner of the trip. Civet de sanglier (wild boar stew), anyone?
Fuel up on a hearty breakfast this morning, because today, you’re taking to the streets of Oletta for an exploratory wander (time to reach those step count goals).
Start at the church of Saint-Andre, which features a wonderful wooden triptych from the 16th century, then head west to the Upper Nebbio region, gateway to the infamous Agriates Desert. There’s also the Convent of San Francesco to explore, a pinnacle (if you will) of Corsican patriotism perched on a hilltop above the village.
Those willing to head a little further out can visit the charming commune of Saint-Florent, just two and a half miles away, to discover its glorious Genoese citadel and characterful cathedral. When you’re not ooh la la-ing at the picturesque architecture, you can top up your tan at one of the many nearby beaches, including Roya, Ospedale and Loto.
The name of the game today: exploring the Cap Corse peninsula. This morning, head out to meet your private guide (who conveniently doubles as your driver) and discover this pretty peninsula, which stretches between the sea, mountains and desert.
24 miles long and nine miles wide, Cap Corse paints a postcard-perfect picture of Corsica’s wild side, far from the crowds and the sunbathers. Rolling along paths only accessible by 4x4, chart a course for the tiny town of Sisco before visiting a distillery and the village of Santa Severa for some seaside scenes.
Afterwards, indulge in a swimming break (naturally) on Tamarone Beach, then detour to the mountains to reach the Ersa-Rogliano wind farm, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Cap Corse peninsula.
Pack your bags, stock up on snacks and hit the road today for the one-hour drive to Corte, a pretty town in the heart of the Restonica Valley. Along the way, keep your eyes on the landscape (within reason) to witness the change from rugged coastal cliffs to gorgeous glacial gorges.
When you arrive, park up and check in for three nights in another delightful hotel, surrounded by hiking trails. Then, unpack, unwind and uncover more local delicacies at dinner this evening – your Concierge will be on hand to point you toward the best restaurant in town.
Another day, another Corsican gem to uncover. Tucked away in the centre of the island, Corte is cosied up against the peaks of the Monte Rotondu Massif mountain range. Within the city streets, you’ll find both the Museum and the University of Corsica – two big hitters in the island’s cultural scene.
Keen to switch things up with a spot of hiking? All around the city, nature flourishes, from the roaring Restonica River to the majestic landscapes of Lac du Melu and Lac du Capitellu. Don a pair of walking shoes – or, failing that, a pair of well-worn trainers – and venture out onto the trails that weave through these scenic spots.
Tuck into a delicious breakfast spread this morning – think buttery pastries and fresh fruit juices – before hopping back behind the wheel for the two-and-a-half-hour drive to Propriano, perched on the southwest coast of the island.
When you arrive, settle in for three nights at your next home away from home, then freshen up and hit the streets for a mid-afternoon stroll before dinner – just enough time to work up a healthy appetite.
Nestled between rugged rural terrain and shimmering turquoise waters, the Gulf of Propriano boasts a delightful seaside setting. This morning, grab your swimwear and head out to soak up the sun on one of the town’s many – and we do mean many – sandy beaches. Meanwhile, adrenaline junkies can up the ante with a spot of windsurfing, kitesurfing or diving.
Propriano is also ideal for exploring the surrounding riches of southern Corsica, such as the prehistoric site of Filitosa, the needles of Bavella and beautiful Bonifacio, the oldest city on the island. Standing proud atop photogenic white cliffs, this stunning Medieval town is a playground for adventurous types. Hop aboard a kayak to explore its coves, set off on foot to delve into its hinterland and, when stomachs start to rumble, duck into the nearest inn to sample a local legend: fig pie.
Pry yourselves away from the shores of Propriano this morning for a private tour of Sartene, deemed the most authentic town in Corsica. Accompanied by a friendly local guide, unveil the beauty of a bygone era and trace the island’s traditions, heritage and religious history as you stroll through a series of Medieval alleyways.
Having journeyed back in time in Sartene, round out your trip with an afternoon of whatever takes your fancy, whether that be lounging on the beach, sipping cocktails on a sun-drenched terrace or dipping in and out of a few local boutiques. The world – by which we mean Propriano – is your oyster.
Sadly, the time has come to bid Corsica a fond farewell. Indulge in one last leisurely breakfast this morning before setting off on the hour-long drive to Figari airport, where you’ll return your hire car, whizz through security and settle into the lounge before takeoff.
The return flight takes just two-and-a-half hours, meaning you’ll be back in the UK in time for dinner (and a post-trip debrief) tonight.
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
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Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from checking you in for your flights to our network of local Concierges
