Discovery of French islands before summer

Written on : 06 April 2018

The French islands, these bits of earth scattered at the four corners of the planet, offer varied landscapes with changing colours to the rhythm of the seasons. Going to discover these territories before the summer is to guarantee you an ideal stay away from the crowds and high temperatures. On the sandy beaches, in the heart of hollyhocks, in the Mediterranean Sea or facing imposing cliffs, Corsica and the Ile-de-Ré have kept over the years their authentic charm of yesteryear to offer travellers from all over the world some nice surprises.

Discovery of French islands before summer

A wild stopover in "The Island of Beauty" transports you to the heart of the scents of maquis and Corsican songs full of character and charm in a remarkable decoration. In Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon or Calvi, the old citadel, Corsica will amaze you with its charming villages where a range of activities are available to you.

Gourmet and traditional getaway in Corsica

On the Southern coast, where you do not expect such discoveries, Bonifacio hides among its secrets beautiful hidden coves and attractive coves, like Porto-Vecchio. In the middle of white limestone cliffs, admire the beautiful sunsets in a range of colours that reflect on the piercing blue of the sea around local specialties: charcuterie, brocciu, caccavelli, sciacca or panettes. In a different setting, in Haute-Corse, the lofty houses and Genoese towers on the mountainside are the backdrop of Bastia and Cap Corse. This "island in the island", made of rocky ridges and valleys, pays a wonderful tribute to the Corsican traditions. At the top of the mountains, potters, painters, musicians and sculptors exhibit their work in the village of Pigna, near Patrimonio, a pleasure for interested visitors. There are, moreover, succulent wines, muscats and whites of character to sip in cellars.

Breathtaking panorama of landscapes

Like an air of the end of the world, the Gulf of Porto is a natural splendour that can only be defined by a soothing calm and tranquillity, similar to the Gulf of Saint-Florent. Between sky and sea, the orange rocks of the cliffs with the blue tablecloth of the water offer a spectacle taking in which no one can be insensitive. It contains the incredible nature reserve of Scandola with a seabed of great biodiversity, which swimmers and divers enjoy admire. And, heading South, Piana is a mandatory stop. This village with breathtaking views of the mountains is also home to coves with unusual shapes to discover. Going down to the land, the archaeological sites of Filitosa and Levie in the hollow of mountain giants of the Alta Rocca will allow you to rest while enjoying the relaxing places. Through hiking trails in Bruzzi, travel through granite villages in the hinterland to complete your getaway along the coast and reach the beautiful Bonifacio. On the way, you will probably find some natural pools of fresh water, ideal for swimming or even pozzi, but also beautiful beaches.

Activities for the whole family

On holiday with friends or family, Corsica offers beautiful activities on land or in the middle of the water. In the heart of the Mediterranean, children can enjoy beautiful donkey rides, adventure courses or sailing lessons. For more freshness, during a canyoning session, you will explore the depths of the canyons of Vacca and Baracci or even the secret corners of the paradise of the Lavezzi Islands. And, along the coast, discover with kayak or snorkel and mask in hand, the creeks and clear waters of the seabed.

The art of living in France is a luxury that you can not refuse. "Ré la Blanche" is the promise of a real change of scenery for unforgettable family holidays in Charente-Maritime. Sandy beaches, marinas facing the salt marshes, vineyards and forests, this sunny destination is home to authentic and wild landscapes. In the heart of its 10 picturesque villages, the traditional white houses with green shutters in the narrow streets surrounded by fairy hollyhocks are incredibly enchanting. A real immersion in the culture!

Picturesque villages

Classified for the UNESCO heritage for some, the villages of the Ile de Ré have all the marvels to discover. Upon arrival, Rivedoux welcomes you in a typical old fishing port, surrounded by oyster culture in the bay and oyster cabins to enjoy these delicious dishes. Continuing your way, in the capital of the island, in Saint-Martin de Ré, the fortifications and beautiful bourgeois houses have preserved their charm of yesteryear and transport the visitors in the stories of the past, towards a discovery of the traditions of the island. One of them, the salt farm whose exploitation draws a landscape both atypical and traditional, reflects the soul of the surroundings. In the middle of salt marshes, Loix, all dressed in white, offers you a visit of the Ecomuseum of Marant Salant to know all the secrets of this timeless inheritance. But, the beauty of the Île de Ré is not just salt. Among the most beautiful villages in France, Ars en Ré has everything. Surrounded by vineyards, near the wild coast, it is in this small port of commerce that you can let go, and relax to enjoy the benefits of the sea thalassotherapy, and similar wildlife around you. Calm and serenity as if time seemed to stop there.

Authenticity and tradition in local markets

A stay on the Île de Ré would not be complete without a discovery of the traditional know-how and culinary wonders of this French island. Local flavours, artisanal soaps, seasonal vegetables and fruits, and flagship products - this is the attractive display you'll find in local markets. Through the meetings, in a friendly atmosphere, browse the local and regional products stands to taste the Rosé dunes, pineau ILrhéa, jams and homemade honey, biscuits of Sainte-Marie de Ré or the authentic and tasty 100% natural beer from the Brasserie Bières en Ré. The fleet, with its typical alleys, offers you a medieval market on the edge of quays animated by boats. And, in Bois-Plage en Ré, bordered by an immense beach and pine and oak forests, it is the biggest market of the island that awaits you. Otherwise, where bike paths abound and where surfers from around the world enjoy surfing on Bois Henry, La Couarde sur Mer also hosts a market to explore.

Activities for all tastes

Windsurf, surf, paddle, catamaran, pleasure cruises and more... The Ile de Ré is also your sport destination and for discoveries. Along the beautiful sandy beaches, the waters are the playground of the fans of extreme sensations. And, on dry land, cycling is a must to explore the great diversity of landscapes that decorate the place. Go by bike to Trousse-Chemise and admire the migratory birds in beautiful reserves in Les Portes-en-Ré to leave with incredible memories. A walk in the park of Bardette or donkeys will also delight young and old. And more, golf enthusiasts can swing on the courses while others enjoy a beautiful horse ride along the beach or in the heart of the land.

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