The Greeks called it Kalliste – the most beautiful. Today Corsica, France’s Isle de Beauté, is a destination which will reward the visitor at every turn: with the reds and pinks of the granite mountains, the white sand and turquoise waters of the beaches, the green of thick forests, and everywhere the heady fragrance of the flowers and herbs covering the hills. Rugged green Alpine peaks towering over small mountain villages; sharp brocciu cheeses, fresh pasta and seafood; not quite Italian, not quite French, this is France's Isle de Beauté, Corsica.
Its rugged and wild beauty and tragic history contrast with its refined dining, complex wines and comfortable hotels. The beaches are as inviting, the waters warm and clear, as the nearby mountains are severe and brooding. Leaving the posh resort areas and villages of the coast one is likely to encounter sheep, pigs or goats on the small winding roads through isolated villages of the interior.
Highlights:
- Views of Bonifacio and Sardinia from the Capo Pertusato;
- Gnocchi at Il Pescadori restaurant in Santa Teresa di Gallura on Sardinia;
- The underwater park of the Levezzi Islands;
- Smooth brocciu cheese and spinach cannelloni;
- A glass of wine in a small mountain village.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 & 2 - Bonifacio
Palms and bougainvillea accent our ride along southern Corsica's beaches before a visit of Bonifacio, set on limestone cliffs overlooking Sardinia. We spend the next day riding on Sardinia or opt for a boat excursion and diving off the Isle Levezzi, an underwater natural reserve.The Hotel Genovese, a handsome townhouse with views of the port welcomes us for two nights.
Day 3 - Zonza
We ride into the hills of the Alta Rocca, cycling beneath the medieval towers and granite peaks of this ancient kingdom. Tonight we feast on hearty Corsican fare including wild boar and hand-rolled pasta. Overnight at a simple island hotel that serves up copious quantities of good Corsican cuisine.
Day 4, 5 & 6 - Porto Vecchio and Conca
After a visit to the stunning Col de Bavella, we descend through olive groves, chestnut forests and myrtle-scented maquis to Porto Vecchio, on the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio. Visit of the hilltown of Conca, where the famed GR20, a hiking trail that crosses Corsica, begins and ends. We make a final toast to an unforgettable week in Corsica and indulge our farewell dinner with ravioli au brocciuand lobster scented with lemon and mint. Two nights at Cala Rossa, a luxurious 4 star hotel with breathtaking views of the mountains and bay.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price includes:
Meals - all breakfasts, all dinners but 1; picnic lunch;
Hotels - villa and 4 star resort hotels.
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Europe
France
Bicycle Touring
Food & Wine
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