Corsica

Rent-in-France - Self Catering Holiday Rentals in Corsica

Search the Rent-in-France directory and find self catering holiday rental homes in Corsica, France. Corsica is the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. The French region of Corsica is an island situated in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located west of Italy, southeast of the French mainland, and north of the island of Sardinia. Corsica is the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.  Its capital is Ajaccio. There are two departments; Ajaccio is the capital of the department of Corse-du-Sud.  Bastia is the capital of Haute-Corse. Corsica extends a maximum of 111 miles, from north to south, and 51 miles from east to west.  The interior is mountainous, reaching its highest peak at Mount Cinto, which is 8892 feet above sea level.  The west coast is mostly rocky and indented. The eastern coastal plain of Aleria is sprinkled with lagoons and swamps. 

Rent self catering holiday rental villas, houses and apartments in Corsica and explore it's beautiful landscape and warm seas, making the island a preferred destination for the tourist. The beaches and very clear water are excellent for all water sports, and some of the best diving in the world. The island's perfect climate, coastlines, fantastic mountain views, interesting towns and marinas combined together, make it a popular destination among tourists, including the French along with other Western Europeans. Due to the fact that Corsica is the least economically developed region in Metropolitan France, tourism plays a major part in it's economy. The island has not experienced the same intensive development as other parts of the Mediterranean and as a result is relatively unspoiled. Tourism is particularly concentrated in the area around Porto Vecchio and Bonifacio in the south of the island and Calvi in the northwest.

The two largest rivers in Corsica are the Golo and Tavignano. They are fed by numerous mountain streams. Corsica contains the GR20, one of Europe's most notable hiking trails – making it an ideal reason to visit Corsica.

The island is divided into three major ecological zones by altitude. Below 2,000 feet is the coastal zone, which features a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. From 2,000 to 6,000 feet is a temperate zone. The mountains are cooler and wetter with vegetation more typical of northern Europe. The population lives predominantly below 3,000 feet - with only shepherds and hikers at 2,000 to 3,000 feet. From 6,000 to 9,000 feet is a high alpine zone. In spite of the southern location, the highest elevations are snow-capped with small glaciers.

Places to Visit when staying in your Corsica Holiday Rental home

Calvi - This popular seaside resort is located on Corsica’s northern coast just 180km south of the French Riviera, or seven hours from Nice by ferry. According to local legend, Calvi is also the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Calvi offers a convenient base for exploring the hillside towns of La Balagne and the Scandola Nature Reserve.

Sant’Antonino - Along Corsica’s northern coast up into the mountains is Sant’Antonino, an eagle’s nest perched on a rocky hilltop that overlooks the ocean and the Balagne region, a place once known as the “Garden of Corsica” for its olive trees, fruit orchards and fertile soil.

Scandola Nature Reserve and Girolata - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Scandola Nature Reserve is located on the Gulf of Porto and Girolata, on the north western coast of Corsica, and accessible only by boat. The striking rock formations in Scandola were carved out by volcanic activity, wind and sea. This area is notorious for its dramatic cliffs, jagged rocks, grottos and coves.

Costa Serena - The oriental coast, located between Bastia and Porto-Vecchio, is famous for its almost deserted long sandy beaches, acres of farmland, fantastic holiday villages and campsites.

Ajaccio - Corsica’s capital has outdoor cafés, restaurants, bakeries, gourmet shops, museums, numerous monuments and beautiful beaches. The Ajaccio fresh market opens daily and is a popular gathering place for the locals. Ajaccio is also a starting point for boat excursions to Scandola. Napoléon Bonaparte was born in Ajaccio, where his ancestral home, Casa Bonaparte, is also located.

Bonifacio - The old town of Bonifacio, located on the southernmost tip of Corsica, has a lively marina that attracts luxury yachts, sailboats and small fishing boats. There are plenty of opportunities for boating and windsurfing. The island of Sardinia is only an hour away by ferry from Bonifacio.

Gorges de la Spelunca - Inland from Porto, the Spelunca river runs through the gorge which in places is a spectacular red colour. Ideal for hikers and walkers.

AitoneForest-  A picturesque forest inland Corsica

The natural park on Corsica - 'The Parc Naturel Régional de Corse', a natural park which helps protect thousands of rare animals and plants.

Travelling to your Holiday Rental Property in Corsica, France

By Sea: Several ferry companies make the trip from France or Italy. The port of Bastia handles about two thirds of the island's maritime traffic.  About one fourth of tourists arrive in Ajaccio. Other ports on the island include Calvi, Ile-Rousse, Bonifacio and Propriano. By Air:  There are four airports on the island. In Ajaccio, the Campo dell Oro Airport welcomes 40% of all passengers, while Poretta Airport, in Bastia, handles around 30%. The remaining 30% arrive at Calvi and Figari.