Corsica reveals its hidden treasures (port-to-port package)

This morning continue cruising to Corsica. Take in the beauty of the Gulf of Porto, which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admire the red cliffs and maquis underbrush in the Scandola Nature Reserve, and glide by the Gulf of Girolata and the dazzling Calanques de Piana. Feel free to attend the lecture about the natural beauty found on and around this Mediterranean island: The Beauty of the Island Summed up in Five Ports of Call. Corsica is best experienced through its beauty, its culture, and its people. As LA BELLE DES OCEANS enters its first Corsican port, join us on the deck for a tasting of traditional myrtle liqueur and a pastry.

This afternoon join the excursions proposed: CLASSIC-Tour of Ajaccio and the Îles Sanguinaires. Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, has a rich and historical past. We’ll also stop at the Pointe de la Parata, get a good glimpse of the Îles Sanguinaires, and stroll through this exceptional natural area. The DISCOVERY-The sights and scents of Corsica. Cross the maquis, the Corsican underbrush exploding with a potpourri of flowers and plants, for a visit to Corsica PAM in Ocana.

An evening of Corsican music and song on board.

Today’s proposed excursions are: CLASSIC-Full day Calanques de Piana and the village of Porto. The coach will travel along the picturesque coastline dotted with rocky inlets until we reach Porto. We’ll then jump on a local boat and head to the Calanques de Piana, where sheer cliffs and rock sculptures seem to jet up from the water and radiate a red hue along the coastline. DISCOVERY – Maison Bonaparte, a national museum. The museum retraces the history of the Bonaparte family in Corsica as well as the series of exiles they experienced.

At the end of the day, begin to cruise to Bonifacio. We’ll enjoy dinner and an evening of entertainment.

This morning, tour proposed for both packages: Set out on an optional guided tour of Bonifacio. The descent (and subsequent ascent) of the King of Aragon’s Stairway will provide some of the best views on the trip (187 steps) . This afternoon join us for the proposed excursion to the Lavezzi Islands nature reserve. Discover this archipelago of islets archipelago of islets and granite reefs, as well as the sea caves and cliffs of Bonifacio. Experience tasting of traditional liqueurs. You’ll reach the Orée du Maquis shop which hides a treasure trove in its cellar. Stills and strange machines used to make liqueurs, aperitif wines and creams. Chestnut or melon cream, hazelnut liqueur from Cervione, Myrtle wine or lemon liqueur, local flavours take pride of place.

In the evening, we’ll have dinner at a traditional inn in the heart of the Corsican inland. Whether we sit by the fireplace or under the immense cork oak trees, we’ll be welcomed by the owners who will explain their history and their love for this island. Corsican music and songs will accompany dinner—a delicious, in-season composition made of local products.

In the morning, set out on the proposed excursions: CLASSIC-Guided tour of Porto Vecchio. The old town includes the ruins of a 16th-century citadel and gorgeous views of the marina. The afternoon will be spent cruising to Bastia. DISCOVERY: Trip to Palombaggia Beach (with the possibility of a picnic lunch from the ship)

This afternoon feel free to take part in some of the onboard activities offered as we cruise towards Bastia.

Join us for the proposed excursion for both packages: Cap Corse. Located to the north of Bastia and Saint-Florent, Cap Corse is a 25-mile-long promontory with several attractive fishing villages, gorgeous coastline, and a couple of good beaches.

At the end of the day, we’ll continue to cruise towards L’Ile-Rousse. Join us for a lecture in the lounge: The Bonapartes: A Corsican Family.

This morning proposed CLASSIC package: A tour of Calvi and its citadel. You’ll discover its large marina and immense bay surrounded by unique landscapes and often snow-capped mountains. OR Discover the old villages in the Balagne Region. These are the fertile hills of the island—commonly referred to as the Corsican gardens—where more than thirty villages are perched on cliffs or hidden in narrow valleys. DISCOVERY: Kick back at Bodri or Ghjunchitu beach.

We’ll then spend the afternoon crossing the Mediterranean to Nice. Join us for a lecture in the lounge: How Corsica Became Part of France. As we bid goodbye to Corsica, join us on the Sun Deck for a cocktail and take in one last glimpse of the beauty of the island. Tonight is our festive gala evening.

Enjoy breakfast on board this morning before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.

• Your cruise in the cabin category of your choice
• All meals
• Drinks with your meals and at the bar (not including our special wine and drinks list)
• Emergency/repatriation insurance
• All port fees
• Classic Sightseeing Package

• Drinks from our special lists or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers
• Optional excursions (must be reserved and paid for on board or at travel agency)
• Transfers to/from departure/arrival points
• Cancellation and baggage insurance
• Personal expenses