Mountains & Villages of Corsica

Most Inspirational Moment

Bathing in the beautiful clear blue waters of the rivers to relieve the heat of the day...so - very luckily - this moment happened every day we walked.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He ( Alejandro) was excellent - capable and informed and fun. Sensible (safe) without being patrician. He was perfect for the job.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go on this holiday!! And take good walking boots.

Suggestions

The hotel was excellent. Very simple rooms but a lovely place with truly excellent food and the most charming owner-manager you can imagine (Paul). He really contributed to the holiday. Overall, it was very good value. Btw - I took this holiday in July 2022.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our leader was excellent. He was so enthusiastic, explained clearly what each day's walk would entail, and ensured the group walked at a pace suitable for all, with plenty of water stops (needed in the heat).

Advice for Potential Travellers

A bit of advance research may assist you in deciding what to do on the free day, whether to go to Ajaccio or Corte, or indeed do another walk. I would recommend taking most money in cash - the hotel only took cash for settling the drinks bill, cash was needed for tips (hotel and leader), and often restaurants and cafes seemed to prefer cash (even in Ajaccio) although the train and shops were OK with card. The problem is that the only ATMs are in Corte or Ajaccio if you run short! I think there should be better advice about the airport transfers. We changed flights at Nice on the outward and Marseilles on the return. Both airports were very difficult and confusing as to how to changes terminals (even though close together in both cases). Many of us found it tricky, so I don't think it was just me!

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking up through pine and beech forest on the GR20 to the Bocca Palmente pass. And then, after the walk, sitting in a small bar by the Vizzavona train station, with a cold drink whilst listening to some calming music and chatting to the other walkers.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Jenny had done a great amount of research of the walks and the area before we arrived, and led us at a kind pace through lovey walks. She had a lovely personality and ensured everyone enjoyed the whole trip (thanks!). Alex also accompanied us and was a great enthusiastic companion too.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It can be very hot on Corsica so choose the time of year that you feel is best for you.

Suggestions

On our “day off” we all had dinner in the local restaurant - about 20 euros each and a lovely evening.

Most Inspirational Moment

No particular moment...it was all inspirational

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent! I’ve been on many Exodus trips...he was the best yet!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Walking poles are very useful. Some of the walking is on very rocky terrain and descending can be hard...useful to have poles to steady oneself. Take your swimwear! The rock pools are lovely.

Suggestions

I particularly liked this holiday as we stayed in the same hotel all week. The village it was situated in was very welcoming. There was a small museum which is really worth visiting! A small bar, where the locals meet, play chess eat ice cream and drink! I loved the hotel! Basic facilities but what more do you need!

Most Inspirational Moment

The amazing views and swimming in Rock Pools. Seeing a golden eagle was pretty special too!!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Amazing

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go for it. There's lots of support. The advice given by exodus is very accurate.

Most Inspirational Moment

Scrambling up the side of a mountain on a rugged path with like-minded people who quickly became friends. All this followed by a cooling dip in crystal clear pools in a mountain stream under a hot sun.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sebastien, our group leader made it all possible with his understanding of the logistics but even more so with his passion for and knowledge of this incredible island. Sebastien was able to keep us informed and amused in an environment that created trust and ensured, above all else, safety. From history to language to culture to flora and fauna we had all the information we needed to make this an exceptional week but it was down to Sebastien to make sure that all of the elements worked together.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Corsica is great and as an Italian speaker I was able to speak to local people, me in Italian and they in Corsican. Of course they also speak French and many English but they do like people to also speak their own, vibrant language. If you like butterflies, you won't be disappointed - the two tailed pasha was a highlight. The walking is not too hard although some parts are tougher than others; a section of the GR20 allows you to see the potential of this famous route.

Suggestions

Sardinia and Corsica share many similarities but Corsica is more mountainous. Like other holiday destinations July and August are busier and hotter so June and September seem ideal times to visit.

Most Inspirational Moment

Last two more challenging walks

Thoughts on Group Leader

Really excellent. Great local knowledge of flora and fauna, landscape and history. Relaxed and humorous approach whilst taking very good care of us.

Advice for Potential Travellers

First couple of walks are not very long or challenging, might not suit everyone.

Most Inspirational Moment

Scenery

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent

Advice for Potential Travellers

No

Suggestions

No

Most Inspirational Moment

Difficult to say as the trip was inspiring in so many ways.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Did a very good job. To be specific: Had well thought out "drop off' points on each walk to allow those tired etc to still have a fulfilling day. Well thought out material support such as spare walking poles, guidance on use, advice and material to help with any blisters. Very good local knowledge, well presented.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Check the trip notes, think about the level, accept and enjoy the differences of a foreign country.

Most Inspirational Moment

The walk up to the Bocca Palmente coll and the Anglais Falls on day 6.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Knows his stuff. Set the right balance between knowing were everyone was and letting people go at their own pace.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Hotel does not have any air conditioning or insect screens, so bring a plug-in mosquito coil. Be prepared for some fairly steep and loose rocky trails on some days as per the trip notes. I was very glad I had my walking poles with me for the descents.

Suggestions

It would have been nice to spend more time above the tree line, but that would have significantly increased the amount of ascent and thus the trip grading.