Corsican Charm

Mountain ridges and mule tracks winding through chestnut groves. Out on the water, the sun catches the waves as fishing boats drift into hidden coves. Corsica is wild, elemental – and unforgettable. Explore the red granite cliffs of the UNESCO-listed Calanche de Piana, sail to Girolata’s remote shores, and taste the island’s character in lemon juice, charcuterie and local wines. From the cliff-perched town of Bonifacio with its sea-sculpted caves, to Calvi’s harbour, every moment brings you closer to Corsica’s spirit – raw, proud, and shaped by land and sea.

ITINERARY

Day 1:  Travel to Corsica
Fly from London Gatwick to Bastia, and transfer to the hotel in Calvi. Evening welcome drink.

Day 2: Calvi to Girolata
Depart from Calvi and travel through the Marsolino Pass and the wild beauty of the Fango Valley, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Continue along the dramatic coastline to the Girolata Gulf, accessible only by foot or boat, and admire its secluded charm. Ascend to the Croix Pass, offering panoramic
views of the rugged terrain, before arriving at the Calanche de Piana, a UNESCO-listed site famed for its surreal red granite rock formations. Enjoy a boat trip through the Calanques, where towering cliffs and sea caves create a magical seascape. End the day with a scenic return to Calvi.

Day 3: Route des Artisans to Calenzana
Explore the heart of Corsican culture with a visit to the Balagne region, known for its artisan traditions and hilltop villages. Follow the Route des Artisans, stopping in Calenzana, Cateri, Sant’Antonino, Pigna, and Corbara—each offering unique charm, cobbled streets, and local crafts. In Calenzana, enjoy a tasting of Corsican wine, paired with cheese and charcuterie at a local winery. Return to Calvi for a relaxed afternoon at leisure—perfect for a seaside stroll or café visit.

Day 4: From the desert to the capital
Venture into the Agriates Desert, a wild and arid region dotted with maquis shrubland and hidden beaches. Continue to the picturesque port town of Saint-Florent, where you’ll have time to explore its marina and old town. The journey continues to Bastia, Corsica’s northern capital, for free time to discover its baroque churches and bustling squares.

Day 5: Corte and Porto Vecchio
Travel inland to Corte, the historic capital of Corsica and a vibrant university town. Ride the tourist train up to the Corte Citadel, perched dramatically above the town. Visit the Museum of Corsica to learn about the island’s rich heritage. Continue south to Porto Vecchio, a lively coastal town known for its beaches and old Genoese fortifications.

Day 6: Bonifacio
Discover Bonifacio, a spectacular town built atop white limestone cliffs. Enjoy a guided walking tour through its medieval streets and citadel. Then, embark on a boat trip to explore the sea caves and dramatic cliffs from the water.

Day 7: Alpine beauty
Our final day is a visit to the Bavella Pass, where the jagged Aiguilles de Bavella rise dramatically above pine forests. Travel through the Ospedale
Forest and the mountain village of Zonza, soaking in Corsica’s wild, alpine beauty.

Day 8: Departure
Morning free before our return flight to London Gatwick.

NB: Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size is 30 passengers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as demanding due to uneven paving, cobbled streets, and lots of time spent standing at attractions. Please visit the mobility page of our website for further information, or call our team prior to booking.

INCLUDED

• Return flight from London Gatwick to Bastia, Corsica
• Four nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at Hotel L’Acquale, Calvi, based on shared occupancy of a double/twin room
• Three nights' accommodation on bed and breakfast at Hotel Costa Salina, Porto Vecchio, based on shared occupancy of a double/twin room
• One lunch
• Return transfers and full coach touring programme as detailed in the itinerary
• Entrances as per the itinerary
• Tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double room for sole use supplement - £665
• Holiday insurance
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls.
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTELS

Hotel L’Acquale, Calvi – 4 nights
This luxurious four-star boutique hotel is located just a short walk from the marina, beach, and historic citadel. 

Hotel website

Hotel Costa Salina, Porto Vecchio – 3 nights
This four-star hotel is just a short walk from the town’s marina and historic centre.

Hotel website