France has long been the world’s favourite tourist destination, and it doesn’t take a much imagination to understand why. It has some of the highest mountains, the most dynamic cities, the best beaches and a treasure trove of the some of the world’s most famous artistic, cultural and historical artifacts. The wide open spaces and impressive mountain ranges of the French countryside allow for a vast scope of outdoor activities to thrill even the most adventurous traveller. Those seeking more of an urban adventure won’t be disappointed by the vast range of clubs, shops, fashion and music provided by France’s cities in abundance. Combine all of these riches with the most sumptuous culinary scene in the world, and you may be planning your next trip to France before you even head back home.
L'Île Rousse is a modern city idyllically set where the River Balagne flows into a beautiful bay in the north western part of the French island of Corsica. In addition to natural attractions such as rugged coastlines, magnificent beaches and towering mountain peaks, this pleasant holiday resort features a charming Old Town area full of tall colourful houses, as well as a number of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors typically begin their tour at Place Paoli, a large square in the centre of the town offering easy access to the most notable monuments including two historic churches and the covered market on the edge of the square (built in 1845). Stretching both north and east from the town centre are two white sandy beaches, the popular Plage du Napoléon with its promenade dotted with beach cafes, and the quieter Plage de Ginepara. Don’t miss the chance to visit L'Ile-Rousse island, a large red rocky island boasting two lighthouses and a Genoese tower.
Situated in southern Corsica, Porto-Vecchio is a stylish resort town known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and pristine beaches fringed by azure crystalline waters. It boasts a historical Old Town bustling with thriving cafes, bars, restaurants, hotels and a glitzy marina lined with trendy cafes and restaurants overlooking rows of luxury yachts. Dubbed the Corsican St-Tropez, Porto-Vecchio encapsulates Corsica’s ‘Island of Beauty and of Contrasts’. Visit the world-famous UNESCO Palombaggia Beach, said to be paradise on earth and featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters; explore the ancient ruins of an old Genoese citadel, and discover the ornate interior of the 19th-century Church of Saint-John-the-Baptist. Other popular activities include: an array of water sports, hiking, mountain biking, canyoning, and climbing.
Ajaccio is the capital city of the French Mediterranean island of Corsica. This popular tourist destination features a bustling port, an impressive citadel and a charming historic core complete with attractive streets lined with lovely pastel-coloured houses. It is here in the Old Town area that you will find the first home and birthplace of Napoleon Bonapart, which has been converted into a museum showcasing a collection of his personal possessions. There are also a number of other interesting museums to visit including the Fesch museum, exhibiting a collection of Italian paintings, and the A Bandera museum, focused on Corsica’s local history and culture. Finally, sunseekers will find a number of beautiful beaches to explore, as well as some luxurious resorts and a waterfront esplanade attracting beachgoers by day and a lively party crowd at night.
