Corsica Revealed: Rich Culture, Cuisine, and Stunning Landscapes

Category: Corsica

Want to Discover the Real Corsica?
In this episode of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, Annie Sargent chats with Jean-François Sénéchal to talk about his favorite place in the world: Corsica. Jean-François is a seasoned tour guide who works both in Provence and in Corsica. Today, he lives in Tourrettes-sur-Loup, near Nice, but his heart never left the island.

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Corsica Revealed: More Than Just a Beach Destination
You’ve probably heard about the beaches in Corsica. But there’s so much more. This rugged Mediterranean island offers soaring mountains, tiny hilltop villages, crystal-clear coves, and a proud culture unlike anywhere else in France. In Corsica Revealed, Jean-François takes us on a road trip around the island that goes beyond the tourist trail.

A Deep Connection to the Island
Jean-François shares personal stories about his Corsican roots—his grandmother once owned a hotel and restaurant in Calvi. His passion comes from the inside. That’s what makes this episode special. You’re not just getting a list of places to see. You’re getting Corsica through the eyes of someone who knows and loves it deeply.

Where to Go in Corsica
Planning a Corsica itinerary? This episode is for you. Jean-François offers a detailed look at the route he uses for his 8-day small-group tours:

Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon
Piana and the Calanques, dramatic red-rock coastal formations
Calvi, a beautiful seaside town with Genoese history
Balagne villages, where you’ll find sweeping mountain and sea views
Saint-Florent and Patrimonio, perfect for wine lovers
Cap Corse, wild and narrow, where you see both coasts at once
Corte, the former capital and heart of Corsican resistance
Bonifacio, perched on white cliffs facing Sardinia

Whether you want to plan your own Corsica road trip or join Jean-François’s in one of his guided van tour, Corsica Revealed is your go-to resource.

Food, Wine, and Corsican Hospitality
Corsica is not just about scenery—it’s about flavor too. Jean-François highlights traditional Corsican foods like figatelli (a sausage made from pork liver), brocciu cheese, and chestnut-based specialties. He also talks about Corsican wine, especially the local white grape vermentino and the famous rosés. Want to go wine tasting in Corsica? He shares tips on how to do it on your own or with a guide.

Tips for Visiting Corsica
In Corsica Revealed, Annie and Jean-François also cover the practical side:

When to visit Corsica: June and early October are ideal. Avoid the heat and crowds of July and August.
Do you need a car in Corsica? Yes. Public transport is limited. Rent a car or join a small tour.
Is Corsica expensive? Slightly more than mainland France, but still manageable.
How many days do you need? A week is a good start. Two weeks is better if you want to relax.

Corsican Culture and History
Annie and Jean-François also touch on Corsican identity. Corsica feels different from the rest of France. It has its own language, its own traditions, and a strong sense of pride. Locals may seem reserved at first, but if you take the time to say “bonjour” and show interest, you’ll be welcomed warmly.

They also discuss Corsica’s long and complex history, from Pascal Paoli’s independence movement to Admiral Nelson’s battle wounds in Calvi. This is not just a place for beach lovers—it’s paradise for history buffs too.

Listen to the Episode: Corsica Revealed
If Corsica is on your travel radar—or even if it wasn’t before—you’ll want to listen to this episode. Jean-François brings Corsica to life with vivid stories, practical advice, and real love for the island.

Listen to Corsica Revealed now on your favorite podcast app, or go to Join Us in France to catch up on the episode.

You’ll come away with a much deeper understanding of Corsica—its geography, its food, its people, and its history.

Planning a trip to Corsica?
Let us know if you’ve visited any of the places discussed in Corsica Revealed, or if you’re thinking about going. Leave a comment in one of our social media pages, ask a question, or share the episode with a fellow Francophile!

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