If you crave a European destination with a fascinating history (Napoleon Bonaparte was born here), wonderful sandy beaches and warm water, ancient villages, unusual cuisine and local wines, great hiking in rugged mountains and valleys…and surprisingly few Americans, then Corsica should be on your travel radar! Marla and I visited the island one September a number of years ago and loved it!

The history of Corsica from THE MESOLITHIC PERIOD (10’000 TO 6’000 BC) to today is fascinating and has formed its independent attitude.

We flew to the northern Corsican town of Calvi from Nice. There are also direct flights from Paris. London’s Gatwick and Heathrow. The map shows the locations of the island’s four airports.

Marla enjoys an ice cream cone at the Calvi harbor with the towering citadel behind. It was built by Corsica’s Genovese rulers beginning in the 12th century.

An aerial view of Calvi and the Citadel.

Our friend in Paris, Philippe Auzas, had talked up Corsica for years so we met there. This is Marla and Kathy Auzas beginning some explorations.

They are entering the entrance to the Citadel.

Ancient steps virtually unchanged over the centuries.

A striking church inside the Citadel.

Marla takes in the view.

We stayed at the beautiful 5 star La Signoria in Calvi. I recommend renting a car to get into town and explore the island.

Their swimming pool with a view of the mountains.

The grounds of the hotel showcase the areas charms. Many visitors are surprised by all the mountains on the island.

The perfect spot for early evening cocktails.

The hotel has a Michelin starred restaurant.

Dramatic use of design and colors in one of the lounges.

Our waiter in the cocktail lounge suggested we try their Muscat wines. We loved them before dinner!

The hotel website shows the colors of the bar much more muted than on our last visit. The redesign is more sophisticated but vibrant colors are fun!

Beaches with views of the Citadel are about 2 1/2 miles from the hotel. They offer a shuttle service to their partner beach clubs.

We drove to the ancient village of Sant’Antonino on two different days as we found it wonderful for explorations.

Marla found it entrancing!

Time for lunch in Sant’Antonino.

We loved this restaurant with Philippe and Kathy. The views of the ocean were beautiful!

Ancient churches in the village.

We love exploring!

We loved visiting Punta di Spano Beach!

We enjoyed a dip in the warm water!

The coastal roads take some concentration which is difficult with the beautiful vistas.

The one area I wish we had visited was Bonifacio in the southern tip of the island. Hopefully on a future trip!

Photos: Dick Gentry (1,4,6,7,8,9,10,11,13,16,17,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27) Not to be used without permission.