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Otherwise known as Corsica, Corse is a French-owned Mediterranean island located off the southeast coast of France, to the west of Italy. After Sicily, Sardinia and Cyprus, it’s the fourth-largest Mediterranean island. Corsica is an island best characterised by its significant areas of natural beauty, which combined with its mix of old-fashioned charm and modern amenities, make for an ideal holiday destination.
Typically Corsican in character, Bastia is the capital of the northern part of the island and features a town that dates back to the 15th century. Much of the town’s original architecture remains, with highlights including the churches of Saint-Jean-Baptiste (the largest on the island), Sainte-Marie and Sainte-Croix. Also worthy of mention are Place Saint Nicolas and Place du Marché, both ideal places to do a spot of people-watching.
Situated centrally to the island, Corte is the ideal location from which to visit the magnificent Regional Nature Park of Corsica (Parc Naturel Régional de Corse). Running nearly the entire length of the island, this spectacular national park offers scenic gorges and mountains which are open for exploration by anyone with the energy and inclination.
Among the island’s most notable attractions is the impressive Bonifacio Citadelle, an ancient fortification standing 70 metres above sea level. Visitors can walk through a tunnel in the walls of the citadel, while the upper levels offer some great views over the island. Other places of interest to visit on a sightseeing tour include the 19th century Place St-Nicolas, with its large Napoleon statue, and Filitosa, the island’s best known prehistoric site where a museum offer insight into the island’s background during the pre-historic era.
The island is home to some excellent beaches which attract no shortage of visitors in the summer season. Aside from sunbathing and swimming, there are opportunities for windsurfing, snorkeling and scuba diving among other water sports.
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