Corsica Grand Tour - Walking & Hiking

Our journey begins at Ajaccio airport, from where we head north along the coast, taking in the stunning sea views. Our first stop is a charming hotel (or similar) perched on the cliffs of the Golfe de Porto, overlooking the dramatic red rock formations of the Calanches de Piana nature reserve. For those who wish, an optional walk to the Capo Rosso peninsula offers panoramic views of the reserve. We'll spend the next two nights here, with front-row access to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dinner is included.

Our day begins in the seaside village of Porto. After a leisurely coffee and stroll, we embark on a boat cruise along the volcanic cliffs of the Scandola Nature Reserve. We disembark in the picturesque fishing village of Girolata, accessible only by sea, for a fresh fish lunch. A scenic hike along the Postman's Path then leads us back to our vehicle for the drive to Calvi, a vibrant beach town with pastel harborfront houses, lively cafes, and an old citadel overlooking the bay. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

We start our day in the hilltop village of Lumio, just a short distance from Calvi. From here, we embark on a circular hike that takes us through a 15th-century hamlet, frozen in time. Emerging from this historical journey, we find ourselves in present-day wine country, where we stop to sample the robust Nielluccio vintages at a local winery. After lunch, we return to Calvi, where you'll have time to explore the town and its iconic Citadelle. Dinner is at your leisure in one of the many marina restaurants. Breakfast and lunch are included.

Leaving Calvi behind, our day begins amidst the sweeping sandscapes of the Desert de Agriates, home to one of Corsica's longest beaches. After a picnic refreshed by sea breezes, we journey through the rugged beauty of the island's interior to reach Corsica's dreamy eastern shores in Erbalonga, our home for the next two nights. This tranquil village, with its stone houses, ancient tower, and yacht-filled harbor, paints the quintessential Corsican coastal tableau. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Today we head to the Northernmost part of Corsica, the Cap Corse. Our walk takes us around the tip of the peninsula, along the coastal Sentier de Douaniers, to the tiny village of Barcaggio. In the evening, we explore the streets of Bastia, Corsica's second-largest city, which has retained its medieval charm, an incredible citadel, and a charming marina. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

We leave the coast behind and head inland to Corte, the heart and soul of Corsica, and once its capital. Our hike takes us along the Restonica River through the granite walls of the Tavignano Gorge, along Corsica's famous GR20 route. As we traverse quiet trails, we may spot local shepherds with their grazing livestock. Our hotel for the night is located just outside of town, on the banks of the Restonica river. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

In the morning, we head inland towards the Vizzavona Forest. Our path follows a pristine river through the woods up to the cascading English Waterfalls, with an ancient fortress standing guard above. After a picnic lunch, we explore Corte, uncovering the resilient spirit of Pasquale Paoli and the golden era when this alpine town was the capital of a fledgling Corsican republic. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Today we journey back towards the sea, culminating at the cliffs and ramparts of Bonifacio's unparalleled citadel. Founded in the 9th century BC, this fortress town perched atop Corsica's southernmost cliffs is the island's most sought-after destination. After lunch, the afternoon is yours to explore the modern marina district, dip into boutiques, relax at an outdoor cafe, or head out along the white cliffs for views back at the citadel. Dinner is at your leisure. Breakfast and lunch are included.

Today we explore the primal forest of Cucuruzzu, following in the footsteps of Corsica's first inhabitants. After lunch, we head to Sartène, a town which proudly boasts the title of 'the most Corsican of Corsican towns'. Our final stop is Ajaccio, Napoleon's birthplace and Corsica's colorful capital. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

We begin our final full day retracing the footsteps of Napoleon, exploring Ajaccio and his birthplace in the old Genovese district. We then head down Rue Cardinal Fesch to the imposing palace named after the Cardinal, Napoleon's uncle. Today a museum, Palais Fesch houses a collection of masterpieces second only to the Louvre. After an afternoon to relax and explore Ajaccio at your own leisure, we will reunite for a farewell dinner at a beloved local institution. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

We conclude our tour with a scheduled drop-off at Ajaccio airport. If you wish, we can assist you in extending your stay or making other independent departure arrangements. Breakfast is included.