Corsica is considered a region of France, but this island, which lies a couple hours off from Marseilles via ferry, might as well be a thousand miles away.

Corsicans have a strong independent streak. While their history has seen the island conquered many times, all outside rulers failed to change the Corsican way of life. Local music, unique cuisine, and the twangy Corsican language (closer to Italian than French, which is also widely spoken) make this a truly unique place.



Corsica's landscape extends high above the Mediterranean waves and well below them. The mountainous island is famed for its scenery and has plenty of hiking trails. There is also scuba diving in the warm seawaters off the coast.

Of course, just sitting on one of the island's many beaches, taking in the sun, sea, and sand while melting a spoonful of sorbet in your mouth is one of the most pleasant ways to spend a day.