Most attractions in Corsica revolve around its spectacular
natural beauty. It is particularly appealing to outdoor enthusiasts
like hikers and scuba divers.
The city of Bastia, in the northeast, is a very
attractive city with some incredible Baroque architecture and a
well-preserved old port. Just north of Bastia is the Cap Corse
peninsula. Here there are peaceful coves and idyllic villages on
the east, such as Porto-Vecchio, and rugged, steep cliffs pounded
by the ocean on the west. Filitosa, with its mysterious prehistoric
menhir statues, can be found near the west coast, just below the
capital city of Ajaccio. Napoleon was born in Ajaccio and much of
the tourism industry revolves around this famous native son. Porto
is a stunning fishing village and a good base from which to explore
the breathtaking Calanques - enormous red rock formations - and the
Scandola Nature Reserve.
The GR20 is the most famous hike in Corsica, a
challenging 15-day hike best attempted in summer. Other well known,
but less taxing walks include the Mare e Monti (sea to mountains)
and Mare a Mare (sea to sea) trails. There are also a number of
coastal walks such as the walk to Girolata on the west coast.
Corsica's Mediterranean coastline offers superb scuba
diving opportunities. The sea temperature is warmest in August and
calm, clear waters, devoid of pollution, make for excellent
visibility. Below the surface Corsica is a playground with dramatic
rock formations, bright colours, and interesting creatures, as well
as a number of wrecks to explore. Almost all the gulfs have dive
centres and there are wonderful dive sites in and around Ajaccio,
Porto Vecchio, Propriano, Cargese, Porto, Calvi and St-Florent.