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Explore Napoleon's Corsica by Walking or Cycling
Ridley Scott’s new historical epic, Napoleon, starring Joaquin Phoenix, is a box office hit. Those who've seen it will surely be inspired to visit France and in particular Napoleon's birthplace, the island of
Corsica.
Every trip to Corsica comes with a touch of Napoleonic history. For example, you can visit his ancestral home and the church where he was christened in his hometown, Ajaccio.
Trace the legendary French emperor's roots and explore Corsica on your next walking or cycling holiday.
ON FOOT | Crossing Corsica: Self-Guided Walk
Starting in Corte’s old town, which clings to the steep slope below its majestic citadel, this hiking trip showcases why Corsica is the most geographically diverse of the Mediterranean islands. The route follows age-old paths that lead from the heart of the mountains to the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea on the island’s western coast.
Featuring a variety of landscapes along the way, from snow topped peaks to fine sandy beaches, highlights of the trip include: exploring the deep Spelunca Gorge; visiting the beautiful lively village of Evisa; and relaxing in the Gulf of Porto, with its unique jumble of rose granite pinnacles.
ON TWO WHEELS | Corsica Cycle: Self-Guided Cycle
The fourth biggest island in the Mediterranean, Corsica is known as the ‘mountain in the sea’ with an incredible diversity of landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Focusing on the northern part of the island, this self-guided circuit explores both the coast and Corsica’s interior, through deserts, forests and mountains and along stunning coastal roads.
There are a multitude of villages and historical sites to explore en route to the night’s accommodation, in specially handpicked inns and hotels. During the day you will have several route options, allowing you the flexibility to choose a more demanding or relaxed route, with more time for sightseeing.
WALK FROM EAST TO WEST | Corsica's Mountains and Sea Self-Guided Walk
Dense ‘maquis’, mountain ridges and granite peaks that soar to 2,700m create a rugged terrain, tempered by deeply wooded valleys, pine forest and cascading streams. This hiking route starts in Corte’s old town, which clings to the steep slope below its majestic citadel, leading from the heart of the mountains to the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Along the way you will pass ancient villages that preserve century-old traditions and have time to visit iconic rock formations such as Les Calanches. The walking trip concludes on the island’s west coast, at Napoleon’s hometown, Ajaccio, where the local airport has been named after him.
CHALLENGE YOURSELF | Corsica GR20: Self-Guided Walk
A trek for experienced hikers: established in 1972, GR20 is often referred to as Europe’s most challenging long-distance walking trail, traversing the interior of the island for about 120 miles. Traditionally split into two sections, the northern part is considered more difficult because of the steep and rocky paths, although the southern part’s lower altitude can mean higher temperatures in summer.
Whichever you choose, the scenery and the views of the sea, sometimes as far as the distant Italian island of Elba, are equally stunning. For safety reasons, a minimum of two people are required on all self-guided departures of the GR20.
Have you been inspired to visit Corsica because of Napoleon? Or have you ever been inspired to visit somewhere because of a film? Let us know in the comment section below.