Beyond the Alps.... in Corsica

Corsica is a mountainous French island in the Mediterranean, off the coasts of France and Italy. Known by the French as the Ile de Beauté (island of beauty) and quite justifiably - from the rugged spine of rocky peaks down its centre, to its miles of perfect sandy beaches, Corsica is a paradise for both mountain and seaside holidays. The terrain is rugged but the trails are generally good and this island is really a hiker’s dream.

The island enjoys hot and sunny weather for much of the year, although in the winter the summits are snowy and in the summer violent thunderstorms are not uncommon.

I have been trekking in Corsica for many years and it is one of my favourite hiking destinations and I offer at least two trips there each year, one in the spring and one in the summer.

These holidays explore all that is best about Corsican walking. The Corsica spring holiday takes in walks both near the coast and also in the hills. At this time there is usually still snow on the highest peaks but there are plenty of mountainous walks to do at a slightly lower altitude. There are also some fabulous coastal walks. The maquis (vegetation) is in flower and is a mass of colour.

The best known summer trek in Corsica is the GR20 which is spectacular. However, many people do this trek and so, as well as walking some of this trek,  So my summer Corsica holiday (Corsica Summits) I take my groups off the beaten track and go to lesser known trails. We also ascend some of the fantastic Corsican trekking peaks. Some nights are spent in huts which are basic but they are situated in fantastic places and mean that we can have an early start for the next day.