Corsica is not a conventional tourist destination, in that it is almost completely undeveloped and boasts little in the way of sight seeing attractions.

Nevertheless, nearly two million people visit the island every year to enjoy the mild climate, the spectacular scenery and to explore the birthplace of Napoleon.

Given its vulnerable location close to both the French and Italian coastlines, Corsica is an island steeped in history. Bastia, the capital in the north, is where visitors to the island should look to start their trip. Relative to several other towns on the island Bastia is a genuinely authentic Corsican town where commerce rather than tourism is its economic dynamo.

To the west of Bastia is L'Île-Rousse and Calvi, the latter of which is blessed with a magnificent citadel and stunning sandy beach, making them major targets for holiday-makers.

The Parc Naturel Régional is another sight that visitors simply must see if they are to enjoy the full Corsican experience. The park runs almost the entire length of the island, making it a perfect base for exploring the mountains and gorges of the interior.

The capital Ajaccio, Napoléon's birthplace, is a fairly pleasant town, with pavement cafés thronged with tourists in summer. However, during the peak season Ajaccio is absolutely heaving with tourists, eroding the town's character and making it a generally more impersonal experience.

But visitors to Corsica simply must escape the towns and explore the countryside. The easiest way to do this is by car, although one with a robust suspension is recommended. The island boasts a spectacular diversity of landscapes that belies its small size and stature.

Despite the fact that the number of tourists exceeds Corsica's inhabitants many times over it has not succumbed to the worst excesses of mainstream tourism. Few towns have been blighted by high-rise hotel developments, which could be assured to ruin the island's tranquil ambience.

Visitors rarely come to Corsica for culture or a frenzied clubbing scene, but to come and experience an island community that lives life at its own pace. In all, for a relaxing, romantic break, Corsica is hard to beat.

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