The French island of Corsica, the 4th largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is the ideal location for a summer holiday. Soak up the sun along the 1000 km of coastline, dine in a beachfront café or discover the ports and seaside towns. Alternatively, explore the inland pine forests and rugged mountains. There are walks ranging in difficulty from gentle strolls through forests of oak, pine, and broadleaf deciduous trees, to some of the most difficult hikes Europe has to offer. The highest peak on the island is Monte Cinto, which stands at 2706 metres. Walking through the large mountain ranges is a good opportunity to escape the summer heat, as they are always wetter and cooler than the sun-soaked coastline.

Walking is not the only activity available in Corsica for those seeking an action-filled vacation. Take advantage of accommodation by the water to enjoy water sports, the beach at Calvi is renown for windsurfing, water skiing and jet skiing. Many other beaches along the coast offer the chance to swim, snorkel, scuba dive and of course to sunbathe. The beach of Mare e Sole is famous for its clear water, and the beach huts that line the shore are a great place to grab a meal while enjoying the sun. Both Mare e Sole and the beach of Palombaggia border pine forests, ideal locations for a picnic in the shade. To escape the crowds, try the remote beach of Saleccia, accessible mainly by boat or Girolata, accessible only on foot. Children will love the beach of Ostriconi, ideal for family holidays. The beaches of Cupabia and Santa Giulia offer fine sand, clear water and a choice of water sport facilities.

However, a holiday in a Corsican villa is not just a chance to enjoy the stunning beaches and forests of the island. The area is steeped in a long history of conquest by various countries, and as such offers a rich variety of historical architecture. Once under the rule of the Roman Empire, the towns of Aleria and Ajaccio boast roman ruins. Roman rule ended in 430 AD, and the island came under various influences until it was conquered by Genoa (in Italy) in 1282. Aleria also contains a fort built by the Genoans to watch over the harbour. The town of Bonifacio, the oldest town in Corsica, displays a strong Genoan influence. Its elegant harbour has a distinctive Italian feel to it. Looking even further back in time, discover the prehistoric menhirs (human shapes carved out of granite) at Filitosa, and ancient Etruscan sculptures at Aleria. Explore quaint old towns with narrow cobblestone streets in Ajaccio, Bastia, Bonifacio and Aleria.

For a change of scenery, experience the bustle of a commercial port town in Bastia, or climb the hill to visit the two old forts - Fort Starforello and Fort Lacroix. Ajaccio is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, and boats a museum dedicated to his life. There is also a 16th century citadel and a renaissance cathedral. The large town of Calvi should not be missed, with its towering citadel, cathedral and a gorgeous port, marina and beachside walkway lined with shops, hotels and cafés. Other towns to explore include Corte, Sartène, Saint-Florent, L'Île-Rousse and Porto-Vecchio.

The cuisine of Corsica is testimony to the many influences in its history. Each town has its own specialty, from the olive oil of Balagna and Marquiliani, to the chestnuts of Castagniccia and the honey of Murzo. Being an island, seafood is an important part of Corsican cuisine, be sure to sample 'boutargue', known as "Corsican caviar". Lastly, do not miss brocciu cheese and Porc Coureur, a Corsican variety of mountain pig, two specialties so integral to Corsican culture that festivals are held in their honour.

Events and Festivals in Corsica
Ajaccio - Fêtes Napoléoniennes d'Ajaccio: Napoléon's birthday celebrations (August)
Aléria - Donkey Festival (June)
Bastia - Musicales de Bastia: Music Festival (October)
Bocognano - Foire à la Chataigne: Chestnut Festival (December)
Bonifacio - Bonifacio Medieval Celebrations (May)
Bonifacio/Sartène - Processions de la Semaine Sainte: religious
processions (March/April)
Calvi - Fireworks festival (May)
Calvi - La Passion: event retracing the Passion of Christ (March/April)
Cap Corse - Foire de Vi de Luri: Wine Festival (July)
Macinaggio - Nautival: Nautical festival (May)
Partimonio - Nuits de la Guitare: a guitar festival (July)
Piana - Journée du Brocciu: Cheese Festival (April)
Renno - A Fiera di A Tumbera: a festival that celebrates a Corsican variety of mountain pig (February)