Corsica

Paws To Peaks
1 sie 2024
3 minut(y) czytania

Zaktualizowano: 13 kwi

Our holiday adventure began in Poland, from where we headed towards the Alps and the picturesque landscapes of Austria. We then travelled through Italy to the coast where we took the ferry to Elba. After two days on this beautiful island, full of history and sunshine, we travelled on to Corsica - an island full of adventure, wildlife and unforgettable views.

Elba: First stop However, before it is about the first stop, it is worth mentioning a pleasant surprise. Driving from Poland to Italy, we decided to stop for 1 night at a campsite surrounded by mountains. The very high ratings and super feedback from visitors only convinced us that it was a good choice.

We arrived in the late afternoon. Climbing up narrow unpaved roads, we finally arrived at the place where the campng should have been. It was tightly surrounded by a high fence and access was defended by an equally high gate.

We pressed the bell and after a while a very nice young man opened the gate for us.

The night on this camping site was very successful, as it is one of the best camping sites in Europe - the little detail I didn't read was ‘the best nudist camping site in Europe’...

Ok - now Elba the first stop

Elba greeted us with crystal clear waters and enchanting coves. We spent two days there, relaxing on the beaches and exploring the town of Portoferraio. This island, famous for Napoleon's brief stay there, provided a peaceful introduction to our journey. From Elba we set off for Corsica, ready for new adventures.

Corsica: the east coast

We set our feet and wheels on Corsican soil in Bastia, from where we began our journey along the east coast of Corsica. This coast delighted us with its beaches and small, intimate campsites, the perfect place to spend the night. It is worth mentioning some of the attractions we encountered along the way:

1. The beaches of Arinella and Santa Giulia - Both beaches are characterised by white sand and turquoise waters. They were the perfect place to relax after a day of driving.

2. Aléria - A city full of history, famous for its Roman ruins and ancient agora. It is the perfect place for history and archaeology lovers.

3. Porto-Vecchio - A charming town with a historic old town where you can dine in one of the many restaurants serving local specialities including seafood and Corsican wines.

To the island: Corse and Monte Cinto

Halfway through our journey, we decided to head deeper into the island and visit Corse, the former capital of Corsica. This town, with its medieval castle and narrow streets, took us back to the time of knights and lords. After visiting Corse, it was time for one of the biggest challenges - climbing Monte Cinto, the highest peak on the island. The climb was challenging, especially in the morning when we were surprised by frost, but the views from the top made it all worthwhile. The panorama of Corsica from Monte Cinto is breathtaking.

West coast: the beaches and Bonifacio

After descending from the mountains, we decided to return to the sea, this time to the west coast. Our route took us along off-road tracks, which gave us a bit of an adrenaline rush. We stopped at a campsite on Saleccia beach, one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in Corsica. The white of the sand and the turquoise of the water were almost unreal.

We then continued on to Bonifacio, a town built on limestone cliffs. Bonifacio is a magical place - narrow streets, historic fortifications and a harbour full of yachts create a unique atmosphere. In the harbour we tried the famous Corsican fish soup, rich in local seafood and herbs. The town also offers views of the cliffs and the opportunity to visit the maritime cemetery, a unique place of reflection and tranquillity.

Back to the north: a change of climate

As we continued our journey north, we noticed a marked change in climate. The northern peninsula of Corsica surprised us with its lush green vegetation, very different from the drier south. In this part of the island, you can admire chestnut trees, cork oaks and a variety of flowering shrubs that give the region its unique charm.

The end

Unfortunately, every adventure has to come to an end. Our journey ended in Bastia, from where we took the ferry back to the mainland. This trip left us with unforgettable memories and a desire to return to Corsica to discover even more of its secrets. It is time to return to Poland, but we are already planning other trips that will take us to equally beautiful places.