Sailing south-east from the glamorous cities of the Côte d’Azur, the Star Clipper takes travelers on a journey to the rugged and rural island of Corsica. The ship, a four-masted nautical wonder, pays tribute to the golden age of sail as it slices through the Mediterranean towards Corsica. Rising out of the sea, Corsica is a mountainous island with a lush green coastline. The ship makes four stops on Corsica and also allows for a morning on a beautiful beach. The trip includes a hotel night in Nice and one in Rome, making it a nine-night adventure with Riviera.
The first stop on the itinerary is Ile de Rousse, where the rocks take on a vibrant red hue. Although it is no longer an island, Ile de Rousse still maintains its historical charm. In the main square, a statue of Pasquale Paoli stands, a symbol of Corsican resistance against Napoleon. Paoli led the Corsican resistance to French forces and even wrote Europe’s first democratic constitution, which included women’s suffrage earlier than France. Paoli’s influence even reached the newly independent USA, where several towns were named after him.
Leaving Ile de Rousse, travelers embark on a coach tour that takes them into the heart of Corsica’s rocky interior. Despite its small size, Corsica is home to an impressive 117 peaks over 7,000 feet tall. Mount Cinto, an extinct volcano, stands nearly 9,000 feet tall and offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean-colored seas and stunning coves. Corsica is a paradise for walkers, but also a challenge for hikers attempting the GR 20 route, as only one third of them complete the 112-mile trek. Sant’ Antonino, perched on a rocky hillside and classified as one of France’s most beautiful villages, provides stunning panoramic views.
Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon, is the next stop on the journey. Napoleon’s influence can be found throughout the city, from stairs leading up to a statue commemorating his victories to his childhood home. Had Napoleon been born just a year earlier, he would have been Genoese, changing the course of European history. After a headland walk with views of the Iles Sanguinaires, the ship returns to Ajaccio.
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Bonifacio awaits travelers as they sail along the limestone coast. The ship’s Director of Entertainment recommends taking to the deck to witness the spectacular arrival in the harbor. From there, guests can board a land-train to reach the medieval town perched atop a cliff. The narrow alleys and tall houses were built to defend against seafarers who threatened the town.
Heading north along Corsica’s east coast, the Star Clipper arrives at the port of Bastia, the gateway to Italy and beyond. Bastia played a significant role in Corsica’s resistance during World War II, as the Casabianca submarine recalls. The submarine made clandestine drops of arms and equipment to the Corsican Resistance, helping them liberate themselves from German and Italian occupation. The Lycee Jean Nicoli serves as a reminder of the cost of freedom, as Nicoli, a former teacher turned resistance fighter, was beheaded during the occupation. The tasting of Mattei’s famous aperitif Cap Corse concludes the visit to Bastia.
The journey ends with a visit to Elba and Rome’s port of Civitavecchia before returning to Nice. The upcoming voyage, scheduled for July 2024, will follow a similar route but onboard the Star Flyer. The 11-day journey, starting from Rome and ending in Nice, includes stops in Portoferraio, Bonifacio, Alghero, Ajaccio, Calvi, St Tropez, and Cannes. The price for this luxurious adventure with Riviera Travel starts at £2,799 and includes flights, transfers, meals onboard, breakfast with hotel stays, and an expert tour manager.
Land travel on Corsica can be challenging and slow, making sailing along the coastline the ideal way to explore the island. The ship serves as a luxurious base for travelers, allowing them to enjoy dinner, a restful sleep, and breakfast while heading to the next destination. Riviera’s expert guides provide valuable insights into the history, sights, and tastes of Corsica. Overall, it is an effortlessly luxurious way to discover Corsica’s captivating beauty.
Please note that this content has been written using information provided by Riviera Travel.
