Choose Corsica said Franceguide 2010

by

Bonjour

Go to Corsica once and you are sure to get addicted!  The proud and fiery character of its inhabitants, the charm of the villages, the natural beauty of preserved sites and its clear, emerald waters, not to mention the figatelli, the brocciu and the Patrimonio wine… Once you have discovered Corsica, you will love it for the rest of your life.
In collaboration with the Corsican tourist board, we present you today a sample of the best Corsica has to offer, with Napoleon’s festivities, Guitar Nights or the polyphonic singing festival in Calvi on the agenda, to name but a few of the many animations and fairs taking place throughout the year.

Marie Folacci, Promotion Director for the Corsican tourist board, also shares with us her favourite spots and activities. Whether they be the hiking trails criss-crossing the island or the sandy beaches of the Balagne area, all of which bypass cities exhibiting exceptional cultural heritage, you will be amazed by the diversity of the land.

Of course, your visit would not be complete without some gastronomic discoveries! Treat your taste buds to an extraordinary experience with the cheeses, cold cuts and local wines. In an excerpt from our new FranceGuide 2010 webzine, Alexandre Lobrano invites you on a tour of the island’s foodie delights.

So to each his own Corsica! Whether you are dreaming of a relaxed time, good food, natural beauties or thrills, our partners are available to help organize your own memorable traveling experience.

À prestu !

Caroline Putnoki
Director in Canada

On the agenda
 
 Les     
Napoleonic festival
Every year, the city of Ajaccio honours its most famous native, with parades, costume shows, commemorations and much more!
 Les      Guitar nights
This unique, world famous festival will take place from July 17th to 24th in the wine-producing village of Patrimonio, located 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Bastia.
 Les rencontres polyphoniques de Calvi      Polyphonic singing festival in Calvi
Polyphonic singing is one of the most popular cultural traditions in Corsica. Created in 1989, this festival is today one of the island’s main events. Rendez-vous in Calvi from September 14th to 18th!

Marie Folacci’s favourites
 
 Reopening of museums     
Reopening of the Palais des Gouverneurs in Bastia and opening of the “Palais Fesch, Musée des Beaux-Arts” in Ajaccio
Corte- Ajaccio- Bastia- Sartène “Archaeological capital”. Each important for their historical, administrative and cultural contributions, the cities today still boast their importance in today’s modern society. It is easy to combine a visit to one of these towns together with a trip to the local countryside organised by one of the various Tourism Offices. Focus on two important openings.
 Le Mare a Mare Sud      Le Mare a Mare Sud
Following this hiking trail from one sea to the other, you will plunge into the heart of the scrubland, discover forests of centennial chestnut trees, cross rivers and pass by perched villages of the Alta Roca for unforgettable meetings with the locals.
 La Balagne      La Balagne
Pristine landscapes, fine sandy beaches, a ragged coastline of inlet coves, authentic villages and traditional craftsmanship… Should you wish to hike, get a suntan or explore charming towns and churches, this region of Corsica awaits you.

A gourmand’s Corsica
 
 Local products and specialties     
Local products and specialties
Rich in heritage, Corsica is equally rich in living traditions, in which gastronomy plays a central role. An authentic and generous mediterranean—inspired cuisine—to savour without moderation!
 The wines of Corsica      The wines of Corsica
Nine OAC all compete in aromas and taste. Don’t hesitate to go and visit the local wineries; Corsican wine-growers will be happy to share their production with you.
 
 Chasing the gourmand's delight     
Chasing the gourmand’s delight, by Alexandre Lobrano
Excerpts from our FranceGuide 2010 webzine
Though it’s known as « l’île de beauté » , for me Corsica will always be « l’île délicieuse ». From its superb charcuterie—I think it produces the best ham and sausage in the world—to its cheese— including its signature brocciu (a soft ewe’s or goat’s milk cheese often used in Corsican cooking)…

Book now
 
 Ulysse     
Ulysses, your travel bookstore, shows you the wonders of Corsica
Between the sea and the mountains, Corsica offers getaways amid wild, untamed nature whose beauty will seduce you at once. Hikers, foodies, and lovers of dolce farniente – Corsica awaits!
 Air France      This summer, 4 daily flights from Montréal to Paris… and Corsica
Buoyed by the success it enjoyed in 2009 operating up to 4 daily flights out of Montréal-Trudeau and one out of Toronto for Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Air France will be repeating the offering once again this summer.
 Agents specialised in France      Agents specialised in France
To organise your trip, choose one of our certified agents. They have received a complete training on all the practical and cultural aspects of France.