Discover Corsica: Now on a direct flight to the Mediterranean's hidden paradise
Spring is well and truly here, and the Mediterranean is calling. But where to head when everyone else seems to be flocking to the same old spots? I've got a personal recommendation for you: Corsica. This French island has long been a bit of a "yeah, maybe someday" destination for Kiwis. But suddenly, it's closer than you think.
That's because Rhomberg Reisen has just launched direct flights to Corsica, and it's a total game-changer. No more connecting through Paris or Nice – in just a few hours, you can be dropped right into the heart of the Med. Best of all, these flights land right near the island's southern tip, close to Bonifacio – a place where the scenery is nothing short of dreamlike.
Bonifacio: Like Stepping into a Postcard
If you've never heard of Bonifacio, Google it right now. Or better yet, just look at the photo above. It's a city perched on brilliant white limestone cliffs, with turquoise water stretching out before it. For good reason, they call it the Caribbean of the Mediterranean. The water is so clear you can see for tens of metres down. And those cliffs! Watching the sunset from the top is an experience you won't soon forget.
The Soul of Corsica: Language and Culture
But Corsica isn't just about stunning looks. It has a real soul, and that soul speaks Corsican. It's a language closer to Italian than French, and the locals are fiercely proud of their roots. Listening to the old men chat in the alleyways, you realise this island has always marched to the beat of its own drum. The Corsican language is a survivor's story, and it's part of every meal, every celebration.
Nature's Treasures: The Christmas Rose and the Cursinu
The nature here goes far beyond sandy beaches. One of the island's own specialities is the Corsican Christmas rose, which surprisingly blooms right in 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 fan, 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 island's own people. You might spot them in farmyards or tagging along on hiking trails with their owners.
What to Do in Corsica?
- Tramping: The famous GR20 trail cuts right across the island, known as one of Europe's most challenging hikes. But there are plenty of shorter sections too, offering breathtaking views of both mountains and sea.
- Chilling out: There are hundreds of beaches, and many of them will be all yours. Grab a towel and some picnic supplies, and find your own little slice of paradise.
- Tucking in: Corsican food is a delicious blend of French and Italian cuisine, but with its own unique twists. Make sure you try the brocciu cheese and some local chestnut oil.
Now that you can get there on a direct flight, there are no more excuses. Corsica is open all year, but spring and autumn are the best times to visit: not too hot, and no crowds in sight. Pack your backpack and head for an island where cliffs meet the sky, and the sea is so blue it almost hurts your eyes.