Day Trip Around Cap Corse

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Corsica, the third largest European island, sits happily between the Tyrrhenian and Balearic seas just north of Sardinia, is shaped like one of those giant foam hands you can buy at sporting events. The finger of this hand points north toward Milan. This finger is called Cap Corse, and a ride or tour around it is one of the most picturesque day trips possible in Europe.

The measure of beauty in Europe has long been whether a famous artist chose the area as a subject. Several famous artists, including M.C. Escher, have made pilgrimage to Cap Corse and been inspired to creation by the classic buildings, dramatic coast and majestic peaks. One great slow travel opportunity is to cruise along the coast from St Florent to Bastia.

The drive gives the relaxed explorer the opportunity to stop at numerous fishing ports and quiet beaches to drink in the ocean, visually speaking, and some of the most impressive views of the French and Spanish mainland. On the eastern shore be sure to check in on Eschaluna, a fishing port favored by artists seeking inspiration. If you’re on the daring side get a map to Corniche Road. Corniche is not a drive for the weak hearted but the view from the precipitous heights are the finest, and most exciting, available. Corniche Road will have the most hardened heart beating fast, ready to retire to Bastia for a cool drink and the moon looming large over the sea.