What strikes you first is certainly the patchwork of colour and as you advance, making your way through the growing crowd, straightaway you are confronted with a combination of ‘olfactive infiltrators’ – as I call them. Taste buds alight, from there onwards you are willingly prisoners of  your senses. Just spent a few leisurely hours here this morning and thought you might like to join me on my tour ..

Imagine an island where 46% of its surface is substantially forested – this is the case of Corsica.

Pine, holm oak, birch, chestnut, fir, arbutus, beech … these forests hold the endemic plants and animal species so vital for the maintaining of the natural ecosystem and continuation of natures survival. Aitone, Ospedale, Vizzavona, Bavella, Valdoniello being the central forests. Rospa Sorba produces abundant quantities of Laricio pine wood, whilst the Ersa forest offers ramblings through alder trees. Holm oak, black + maritime pines dominate the Bonifatu forest, where hiking and walking can also be appreciated. Cross-country skiing has, over the years, become more and more popular, and is present in many regions.

It is not surprising to see Eucalyptus trees on many parts of the island, and...

Ornate and often original, they hold a representative importance throughout the island

No matter where you wander, you will notice one or more fountains in every village – both functional and social as they not only supplied the village with the necessary water, but also contributed to the communal activity within. Many a meeting/gathering took place around the fountain, many a story related too – they remain a symbol, more so of the past but continue to intrigue and contribute to the beauty of the villages even today. Inevitably, a certain number have run dry, although remaining a minority, one can still admire the handiwork achieved.

It has been said that the history of Corsica ‘is graved in stone’, what a suitable phrase as regards to its fountains, one might also say...

Undeniably, there persists a traditional gastronomy on the island

Generations have submitted a certain ‘savoir faire’ with pride and generosity, where variety and imagination continue to create, respecting traditions – in order to please just about everybody.  Beginning with what the island has to offer as local products: olive oil, meat, game, fish, dairy products, vegetables and fruits, chestnut flour, honey, pastries+desserts, liqueurs, beers and wine … among the most appreciated.  A significant example would be that of the wild boar, often prepared as a stew, but also served by the leg, without forgetting the delicious pâté. Subtle flavors and distinctive scents mingle and blend, offering innovative and unforgettable sensations...