Corsica Attractions

Corte

Rooted in central Corsica, Corte is a potent symbol of Corsican independence. It was the 18th-century capital of Pascal Paoli's short-lived Corsican state and remains the cultural and spiritual heart of the island. A youthful university town, it's the liveliest and least touristy of the region.

The town is dominated by a partly derelict citadel, the only such fortress in the interior of the island, which towers above the town from a rocky promontory. Also of note is the Genoese-built National Palace, the Musée de la Corse and, of course, the Univerità di Corsica Pasquale Paoli.

Niolo Region

The Niolo region, around Calacuccia, northwest of Corte, is the all but perfect playpen for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Guides, some of them skilled in mountaineering, can help both beginners and proficient climbers up the peaks of Cuccia and Calasima.

You can also explore the canyons of the Ruda and the Frascaghju, or kayak in the Golo. Organised hikes to the top of Monte Cinto, Corsica's highest peak, are offered several times a week. You can also take an organised walk to the Lac de Nino peat bogs.

Sartène

Not too far from Filitosa, Sartène is a reminder of what Corsica used to be like, perpetuating traditions that go back to the Middle Ages. It was the seat of many a famous inter-family and even inter-township vendetta; novelist Mérimée called it 'the most Corsican of all Corsican towns'.

If you're interested in piety (or masochism) visit on the eve of Good Friday so witness a macabre tradition from the Middle Ages, the Procession du Catenacciu. An anonymous, barefoot penitent carries a huge 32kg (70lb) oak cross through the town, dragging a heavy 14kg (30lb) chain at his feet.