Corsica is calling: Now you can fly direct to the Mediterranean's forgotten paradise
Spring is well underway, and the Mediterranean is calling. But where to head when everyone else is flocking to the same old crowded hotspots? I've got a personal recommendation for you: Corsica. This French island has long been on Nordic travellers' radars as a 'yeah, maybe one day' kind of place. But now, it suddenly feels closer than ever.
That's because Rhomberg Reisen has launched direct flights to Corsica, and it's a game-changer. No more connecting through Paris or Nice; in just a few hours, you can touchdown right in the heart of the Med. And the best part? The flights go directly to the island's southern tip, near Bonifacio – where the landscapes are nothing short of breathtaking.
Bonifacio: Like stepping into a postcard
If you've never heard of Bonifacio, Google it now. Or better yet, just look at the picture above. It's a town plonked right on a white limestone cliff, with the turquoise sea stretching out before it. They call it the Caribbean of the Mediterranean for good reason. The water is so clear you can see tens of metres down. And those cliffs! Watching the sunset from up there is an experience you won't forget.
The soul of Corsica: language and culture
But Corsica isn't just about good looks. It has a soul, and that soul speaks Corsican. It's closer to Italian than French, and the locals are fiercely proud of their roots. Listen to the older generation chatting in the backstreets, and you'll realise this island has always marched to its own beat. The Corsican language is a story of survival, and you'll hear it woven into every meal and every celebration.
Natural treasures: the Christmas rose and the Corsican dog
The nature here goes far beyond sandy beaches. One of the island's own specialities is the Corsican Christmas rose, which, surprisingly, blooms during the darkest winter months. It's a resilient beauty that grows in the mountains, adding a splash of colour when the rest of Europe is waiting for spring. If you're a gardening enthusiast, you'll likely recognise the name.
And then there's the dog. The Corsican dog, known in French as the Cursinu, is the island's native breed, used for centuries for herding and hunting. They're intelligent, agile, and loyal – much like the islanders themselves. You might spot them in farmyards or on hiking trails, keeping their owners company.
What to do in Corsica?
- Hiking: The famous GR20 trail cuts right through the island and is one of Europe's toughest long-distance walks. But there are shorter stretches too, offering breathtaking views of both mountains and sea.
- Relaxing: There are hundreds of beaches, and many of them are blissfully empty. Just grab a towel and some picnic supplies, and find your own little slice of paradise.
- Food: Corsican cuisine is a delicious mix of French and Italian, but with its own unique twist. Make sure to try brocciu cheese and the local chestnut oil.
With direct flights now an option, there's really no excuse. Corsica is open year-round, but spring and autumn are the perfect times to visit: not too hot, and mercifully free of the tourist crowds. Pack a bag and head for an island where the cliffs meet the sky, and the sea is such a vivid blue it almost hurts your eyes.