How to forget winter in 7 easy steps... in Corsica

Winter temperatures in Corsica are so mild that it's easy to forget that this island of beauty has 4 winter resorts (Asco, Ghisoni-Capanelle, Val d'ese and Vergio). It's not unusual to see snow-capped peaks such as Monte Cinto, Corsica's highest peak, from the sea. So you can go up to the resort, do a few runs or snowshoe hikes before heading back to the coast at the end of the day, or take advantage of the views and sun on the beach to make people jealous on Instagram. The choice is yours!

While others wait for the snow to fall, you can set off to meet the bottlenose dolphin and the fin whale. Corsica is an excellent place to observe these magnificent cetaceans, whether you choose to go north-west, in the Scandola nature reserve, or south-east, off Porto-Vecchio. And if you want to give yourself the best chance, you can opt for a sea expedition lasting several days on a catamaran, an ideal opportunity to meet other marine species such as rays or blue-skinned sharks. For the more adventurous, you can indulge in the pleasures of snorkelling and admire the beauty of the seabed. So don't forget your mask and snorkel!

Corsica sea walk

Coppa, panzetta, lonzu, prisuttu... charcuterie is undoubtedly the star of the local gastronomy, thanks to the island's breed of pig, the famous "porcu nustrale". And good news for out-of-season visitors: some Corsican specialities can only be eaten in winter, such as the sublime figatellu, a dry sausage cooked over an open or wood fire and served in a piece of chestnut flour bread (pulenda), accompanied by brocciu (sheep's cheese, another local star) and fried eggs. Enjoy your meal!

Head for Porto-Vecchio! Protected by the relief of the Ospedale, you've chosen the most cheeky microclimate on the island, with an average temperature of 16.7°C all year round. And don't forget to take advantage of autumn or winter to stroll through the picturesque streets and the historic citadel in complete tranquillity, without the summer heat... or to enjoy the delightful, almost deserted beaches of fine sand. Sports enthusiasts and nature lovers will find ideal conditions for exploring the coastal paths (such as Tamaricciu), hiking in the mountains (such as A Punta di A Vacca Morta) or going snowshoeing on the surrounding snow-covered peaks.

A subtle pleasure reserved for winter, sea urchin fishing is a joyful excuse to celebrate in the morning. They are eaten directly on the beach, freshly collected from the rocky coasts of the island, usually between Cargèse and Bonifacio. It's a pleasure enjoyed by the locals with family or friends, in a dreamy setting, warmed by the winter sun and a glass of fine Corsican white wine. A dish that tourists can also enjoy from 15 December to 15 April in many restaurants along the Corsican coast.

It's one of the most beautiful beaches in France. And because it's winter, the translucent waters of Palombaggia are yours and yours alone (well, almost). So make the most of the fine sand and, as you walk southwards, take in the wild coves dotted with magnificent umbrella pines, while the sea is adorned with the pink reflections of the porphyry rocks scattered along the coastline.

In November, pizzas, prosecco, big films. In February, tapas, sangria, colourful films and fiestas. You don't know where you are anymore? That's normal: in low season, Ajaccio pulsates to the rhythm of several film festivals: the Italian Film Festival, but also the Spanish and Latin American Film Festival of Ajaccio. Do you prefer traveling through other arts? The Corsican capital has plenty to offer: horse-riding accompanied by a culinary break and Corsican songs (November) or its International Circus Festival (February). Whether you prefer indoor or outdoor activities, you'll never be bored in Ajaccio, even when the season is over.