Corsica: Île de Beauté, a skilful blend of nature and culture

Corsica: key figures

Surface area: 3351.0 km2

Population: 30,2000

When is the best time to visit Corsica?

Corsica is obviously one of the most attractive destinations in the summer, and like all sun destinations, the island is very popular in summer. It's difficult to find accommodation at the last minute, so it's a good idea to plan ahead and book well in advance (sometimes even before spring).

Despite these precautions, you should be aware that the island is very busy in July and August, which means that the beaches are often overcrowded, as are the restaurants and tourist attractions. Prices can also rise.

To make the most of a holiday exploring Corsica, it's best to leave before or after the school holidays, if possible. With its Mediterranean climate, the island enjoys mild temperatures and sunny days in spring and autumn, but without the flood of tourists (which means that Corsicans are more relaxed).

Packing your suitcase

Corsica's climate, especially in summer, means that you need to be very careful in the sun: sun cream, sunglasses and headgear are all essential items to pack in your suitcase.

This recommendation is all the more important for those wishing to tackle the famous GR20 during their holidays. It's best to be well-prepared and well-equipped before embarking on this hiking route, which, however beautiful it may be, is no picnic. Walking in the blazing sun, the sometimes steep gradients and particularly difficult sections are all part of this adventure. There's nothing insurmountable about it, you just need to be well-informed and well-documented before setting off on these paths of rare beauty.

Driving in Corsica

Cars and motorbikes are still the best way to get around and access all the island's hidden corners and treasures. You can choose to come to Corsica with your own vehicle or hire one locally. There are a large number of rental companies on the island. However, it is more difficult to hire motorbikes or scooters locally.

Aword of caution: be particularly careful when driving in Corsica. The roads are winding, some are impressive with steep inclines, and above all Corsican drivers can be in a hurry and impatient. If you're being tailgated by a driver on a difficult road, don't hesitate to let them overtake you as soon as the opportunity arises.

During the summer months, be patient, as traffic can be difficult. Finally, if you venture into the mountain villages, you may not find any petrol stations, so be prepared!

What to bring back from Corsica

The best thing to do is to bring back a culinary souvenir of your visit to Corsica! The local gastronomy is rich, varied and delicious: honey, jam, charcuterie, cheeses, wine, chestnut flour and other products for which the island is renowned for its culinary specialities. These products will be a perfect souvenir of your stay in sunny Corsica!

A few expressions in Corsican

Before you arrive in Corsica, why not learn a thing or two? A few words spoken in Corsican are always appreciated by the locals!

Oui: ïé Non: Innò Bienvenue: Benvenuti Ça va: Va bè Comment ça va? : Cumu và ? Bonjour : Bonghjornu Bonsoir : Bóna sera Good night: Bóna notte To your health: Salute! Goodbye: Avvèdeci Merci: Grazie Excusez-moi: Scusatemi

As for pronunciation, the ends of words are often swallowed: "U" is always pronounced "OU", "T" becomes "D", "TT" becomes "T", "V" is generally pronounced "B" (except in southern Corsica), and "LL" is pronounced "DD" in the south.

The consonants K, W and X do not exist in Corsica. As for vowels, "A" and "I" are pronounced as in French, "U" is pronounced "OU", "E" is never silent and "Y" does not exist.