Ajaccio, Corsica
Power-crazed emperors, wild sea views and an amazing old town… Ajaccio, on the rugged island of Corsica, is a heady mix of fiery Italian passion and fabulous French food.
Birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, there are reminders of the small man with the big hat everywhere – from the grand statues to the names of the many cafés and bars. Take a walk down Cours Napoleon and on to Place de Gaulle, maybe stopping to snag a souvenir or two. When you’ve worked up a thirst, head for a bar overlooking the bay and try a glass of myrtle liqueur. Hungry? Then sample the traditional Corsican fish soup or feed your inner carnivore with wild boar stew.
Don’t Miss
Ajaccio – Visit Maison Bonaparte where the Emperor was born in 1769, or the 16th century Cathedral where he was christened. Stop-off at Musée Fesch to see masterpieces by Botticelli, Titian and Bellini or just stroll through the streets and picturesque squares in the old town and citadel.
Les Calanches – See the wind-sculpted and wildly-shaped red rock formations that have inspired artists and writers for centuries.
Scandola Nature Reserve – Take a boat trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site at Cape Girolata and see the incredible rock formations, caves and grottoes.
Ajaccio Action Ashore
- Take a helicopter flight over the sea and the Sanguinaires, the dramatic ‘Blood Islands’.
- Go deep into the Corsican bush and whizz through the trees by zip-wire.
- Paddle a kayak through neon blue water along the coast from Ruppione beach.
- Explore Ajaccio and get the inside story on the city and Napoleon, it’s most famous son.
- Explore the stunning Prunelli river valley and the rugged landscape of ‘The Scented Isle’.
- Take some time out at a tortoise protection centre.
