May 26th, 2009
WHEN TO GO
Hmmm…When the maquis is in full blossom in May and June, the scents are memorable and the vivid hues unforgettable. This is by far the best season to explore Corsica. The weather is sunny without being stifling, the countryside bursts with spring flowers, the locals are more hospitable and the flood of summer tourists, largely dictated by the French vacances scolaires (school holidays), has yet to crash over the island. Most French people hit the road in July and August, so those two months – in which prices soar, tempers flare and the island broils – are best avoided. The core of the peak season is from mid-July to mid-August, when Corsica is chock-a-block with visitors. Flights and ferries are full to bursting, too. It’s imperative to make reservations well in advance if you’re planning to visit the island during this period. Another good season is autumn, from September to mid-October. It’s refreshingly peaceful and the weather is usually warm. Most places are open, without being overwhelmed by the crowds. It’s generally comfortable for land-based outdoor activities such as walking, horse riding and canyoning.As for water sports, the water temperature is most favourable from June to October, and can reach 25°C in August.
Between late October and springtime, the island goes into snooze mode and most tourist facilities are closed, which is a bit of a shame since the climate is usually mild and sunny in winter, at least on the coast (it can be
downright chilly inland). It’s a good season for photographers, with perfect light and enchanting hues. Some chambres d’hôtes are open year-round, as are certain hotels in the main cities, which means that with some preplan-ning and your own wheels you can easily get around the island, and have the whole place to yourself! Winter is also the best season if you’re hunting for that perfect charcuterie – believe us!Walkers on the GR20 and other routes, the elderly and those travelling with children will surely prefer the less sweltering months of May, June and September, when roads and amenities are also less congested. Serious hikers should take note that the snow lingers until as late as mid-June on some sections of the GR20.You may also prefer to organise your trip to coincide with one of the many festivals that fill the Corsican calendar – Easter is a particular highlight.