Grand discovery stay in Corsica

Arrival in Ajaccio (by ferry or flight). A guided tour of the old town — the imperial city where Napoleon was born — and a drive along the Sanguinaires road with its succession of coves and sandy beaches.

Then south via Sartene, Propriano and the famous Lion of Roccapina overlooking the sea. Optional at extra cost: the megalithic site of Filitosa, one of the most significant prehistoric sites in Europe.

Departure for Bonifacio, the ‘white town’, a citadel overlooking the stunning coastal landscape of the ‘Bouches’ and home to narrow, fortress-like houses. Tour of the upper town on a miniature train. Optional at extra cost: a boat trip to the caves and cliffs of Bonifacio, weather permitting. On the return journey, a stop at the famous Palombaggia beach with its centuries-old pine trees.

Castagniccia, with its 8,500 hectares of chestnut trees – known as ‘bread trees’ – and its villages with slate-roofed houses: Morosaglia, the birthplace of Pascal Paoli; and Piedicrocce with its Baroque church, where we’ll stop for a visit.

Then Cervione, the former capital of Corsica, and its cathedral; the east coast; Aléria and its archaeological site with 8,000 years of history; Ghisonaccia and its citrus groves; Solenzara (the ‘Coast of Mother-of-Pearl’).

Or a trip to Sardinia*. In Bonifacio, board the ferry to Santa Teresa di Gallura. Excursion and tour of the Maddalena Islands, a true ecological paradise. Lunch in a Sardinian restaurant and return in the evening.

Or an excursion to the Lavezzi Islands*, a paradise for divers and walkers with their hundred or so islets and small, sheltered beaches with turquoise waters. Lunch of ‘fisherman’s bouillabaisse’ prepared on board. Opportunity to swim and go ashore on the islands. Return in the late afternoon.