Corsica

Not so much an island as a range of mountains in the Mediterranean – a spectacular jumble of alpine peaks and rugged rock which topples down through forests of pine, oak and sweet chestnut to a coastline of dramatic gulfs, fishing harbours and beaches of soft sand.

This French island is endowed with staggering and unspoiled beauty. Old ports have evolved to offer the expected pleasures: water-sports, simple and sophisticated places to eat, an energetic nightlife, but there are also pristine beaches, a rich underwater world and lovely wild tracts where walkers inhale the intoxicating scent of herbs from the legendary maquis. Crossing little Genoese bridges, climbing craggy ridges or exploring sleepy terracotta-tiled villages, you get closer to Corsica’s true character and to the Corsicans themselves. The islanders have their own language and an independent spirit, but their welcome for visitors is enthusiastic. There is no ideal time to visit, but even in the height of summer there is plenty of empty space close to the coast and in the island’s heart – where many of our most appealing properties and hotels are tucked away.