Discover Calvi, the Scandola Reserve, Piana, Ajaccio, Bonifacio, Lavezzi Islands and Porto Vecchio
Day 1: Calvi | Day 2: Scandola Reserve & Cargèse | Day 3: Piana | Day 4: Ajaccio & Gulf of Valinco | Day 5: Bonifacio | Day 6: Lavezzi Islands | Day 7: Porto Vecchio
Corsica is a charming French island in the Mediterranean, neighbouring Sardinia. If you love all things French but want a retreat from the busy atmosphere of the Riviera, Corsica is the perfect alternative. Corsica is home to some of the lengthiest stretches and most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, with imposing cliff tops, protected natural marine parks, beautiful bays and historical ports; the landscape is truly stunning, featuring dramatic inland mountains, forests, rivers and waterfalls. The Italian influence is apparent in the food and the passionate personality of the locals, making Corsica place with a perfect blend of cultures.
Day 1: Calvi to Golfe de la Revellata
Start your trip at the charming town of Calvi, and board your yacht in the historic port and get accustomed to life on the water; embarking towards the Golfe de la Revellata, have lunch on your aft deck before having a relaxing swim in the refreshing waters in the Bay of Crovani. Sit back and take in the scenery of the fascinating volcanic rock formations along the Cap Cavallo that lie just off the protected Scandola Nature Reserve, before mooring in Elbo bay. Enjoy your dinner as you watch the sunset after a fantastic first day!
Day 2: Scandola Reserve to Cargèse
Following a leisurely breakfast, go scuba diving around the Scandola Nature Reserve which can be organised by your captain if you wish! Alternatively, snorkel closer to the shores or simply relax before setting off towards Cargèse. As you approach Cargèse, you'll notice the jagged trips of the rock formations as well as the deep coves - discover Cala di Palú, a small inlet with beautifully clear waters. In the late afternoon, explore the Greek-influenced village of Cargèse before dining at the restaurant l'Agula Marina located in the port, serving fresh seafood and fish.
Day 3: Calanques de Piana
On your third day, venture onto the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Calanques de Piana - Calanques are narrow, steep-walled inlets that are famously found in the Mediterranean. With beautifully clear waters and the fact they are best accessed by boat, they are rarely busy and perfect for swimming or diving. Witness the sanguine rock formations known as the 'red isles' at the golden hour of the sunset before heading into Piana for a delectable meal at Café de la Plage, located directly on the beach.
Day 4: Ajaccio to the Golfe de Valinco
Spend your morning swimming and trying out the water toys on board your yacht, before moving onto Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte; take the opportunity to relax on Tahiti or Palm beach and grab a bite to eat at one of the
paillotes dotted along the beachfront. In the afternoon, cruise to the Golfe de Valinco where you'll find a number of magnificent beaches for swimming and sunbathing! Admire the Genoese architecture of the simple fishing village of Campomoro before strolling along to have a drink at one of the bars dotted around. Have dinner at a local restaurant of your choice or dine on your yacht in the evening.
Day 5: Golfe de Valinco to Bonifacio
Cruising onto Bonifacio after a morning's swim, take in the impressive height of the cliff on which this small town is perched upon. The wild moorings around this area make for interesting surroundings and the perfect place to snorkel if the waters are calm. The entrance to Bonifacio consists of an impressive limestone cliff, and the town itself consists of a mix of chapels, brasseries and boat kiosks. Dine at the interestingly named 'Kissing Pigs' Restaurant located by the harbour to sample some wonderful Corsican cuisine.
Day 5: Bonifacio to the Lavezzi Isles
On the fifth day of your trip, embark from Bonifacio and head onto the unmissable Lavezzi Islands, famed for their excellent diving and snorkelling spots. Being a protected sanctuary, the waters are pristine and the marine life here is truly fascinating. As there are no restaurants on the islands, so have lunch aboard your yacht as you recharge after a busy morning! Enjoy the views of the stunning pink granite rock formations in the evening glow as you enjoy a sundowner from the comfort of your deck.
Day 7: Lavezzi Isles to Porto Vecchio
Departing from the Lavezzi Isles, make your way to Porto Vecchio - discover beautiful bays and beaches of fine white sand here such as the renowned Palombaggia beach, and snorkel at Rondinara in the sparkling turquoise waters. The town of Porto Vecchio features a backdrop of a 16th-century Genoese citadel with an old town square lined with shops, bars and restaurants to explore and indulge in. Dine at Linda Beach if you wish to remain by the seafront, or alternatively at A Casa Corsa for some deliciously fresh dishes paired with some Corsican wine.