Corsica on the rails from Bastia to Ajaccio
Tour of 8 days and 7 nights
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Like a breath of freedom!
A train journey is more than just a means of transport. It's a trendy, convivial way of traveling that transcends your routes, a tour like no other that takes on the allure of an unforgettable epic. You'll criss-cross Corsica from north to south at a leisurely pace, accessing unsuspected lands and contemplating the different scenes as they unfold from a unique perspective. Over the course of a week, you'll experience an original adventure that will satisfy all your desires for unique journeys.
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From
727 €
per person
This tour is 100% customizable. As a result, prices per person are given as a guide in mid and high season.
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Full program
27 steps distributed over 8 days
Day 1 : Bastia
Departure
Transfer (Taxi, VTC)
Transfer from Bastia airport
1
Villages with character
Welcome to Bastia
Bastia's narrow streets, whose colors play with the reflections of the sun, possess an authentic Baroque charm. Its Old Port is a gentle invitation to simple pleasures, to be savored early in the morning, such as enjoying a coffee on a terrace while watching for the return of the fishermen. The pedestrianized Citadelle offers visitors a peaceful stroll.
2
Hotels
Hotel Best Western Montecristo Bastia
Day 2 : L'Île-Rousse
3
Stations
Bastia -Île Rousse
Climb aboard and let the train's charm work its magic. Leaving Bastia, the journey begins gently, skirting the Etang de Biguglia, a haven of peace for many species of birds. Gradually, the landscape changes: the relief of the Nebbio takes shape, offering a striking contrast between sea and mountains. After a change at Ponte Leccia, the route takes on a new dimension. The train winds through unspoilt valleys, passes through picturesque villages and skirts the Balagne region, revealing panoramas of raw beauty. As you approach Île Rousse, the Mediterranean reappears, sparkling in the Corsican light. After a 3-hour drive, you'll arrive in this emblematic seaside resort where the ochre of the rocky islands contrasts with the intense blue of the sea, between sandy beaches, lively lanes and a gentle way of life.
4
Villages with character
Discover the town of Île-Rousse
Let yourself be transported by Île-Rousse, a town of irresistible charm, where the azure blue of the Mediterranean meets the glowing hues of the granite islets. This jewel of the Balagne region invites you to stroll through its sun-drenched streets, savor authentic local products and marvel at its breathtaking panoramas. Let yourself be seduced by its unique atmosphere, a blend of unspoilt nature and the gentle way of life, for a stay steeped in Corsican magic.
5
Hotels
Splendid Hotel
Day 3 : Calvi
6
Stations
Île Rousse-Calvi
Make yourself comfortable and let the train guide you along one of Corsica's most beautiful coastlines. Leaving Île Rousse, the journey becomes a peaceful one, lulled by the quiet rhythm of the rails winding between sea and scrubland. Soon, the landscape becomes an open-air spectacle: on one side, the deep blue Mediterranean, on the other, the sun-sculpted relief. Along the Balagne, the train passes golden beaches and wild coves accessible only on foot or by sea. Each stop is an invitation to discover: Bodri, Algajola, Sant'Ambroggio... So many little gems where fine sand rubs shoulders with craggy rocks and crystal-clear waters. Then, at the turn of a last bend, Calvi reveals itself majestically after around 45 minutes.
7
Sites and historical monuments
A visit to Calvi's citadel
Calvi's citadel, established in the 13th century, bears witness to the region's rich and tumultuous past. As you stroll along its ramparts and cobbled streets, you'll discover bastions, impressive fortifications and the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church. It's a journey through Genoese and Corsican history.
8
Highlights
Natural heritage
The wild Revellata peninsula
La Revellata, south of Calvi, offers numerous rocky coves, two beaches and a coastal path accessible to all. The site is home to rare, endemic and protected plant species.
9
Optional
Sea trip
Sailing in the Gulf of Calvi from Calvi
Sail aboard a 12-person RIB in the Gulf of Calvi, along the coast to the pointe de la Revellata and to the grotte des veaux marins, weather permitting, or to the pointe de Spano, then enjoy a swim in the turquoise waters of a cove before returning to port. Included: masks, snorkels and soft drinks.
10
Hotels
Hotel Le Rocher
Day 4 : Corte
11
Stations
Calvi-Corte
The train leaves Calvi, first skirting the coast, where the intense blue of the Mediterranean blends with the golden hues of the beaches and craggy rocks of the Balagne region. The journey gets off to a gentle start, with its wild coves and picturesque villages. Then, after a change at Ponte Leccia, the scenery changes: the sea gives way to wilder valleys and the first mountainous reliefs. The train enters the island's interior, winding its way through chestnut forests, deep gorges and sparkling rivers. As the journey continues, nature becomes more raw, more majestic. Arrival in Corte, Corsica's historic capital, is surrounded by spectacular scenery, dominated by its perched citadel and the surrounding mountains. After a 2 hr. 40 min. journey, you're plunged into a wilder, more authentic Corsica.
12
Sites and historical monuments
Visit the citadel
From the Belvédère de la Citadelle, enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the Restonica and Tavignano valleys.
13
Sports activities
Get around by bike with a VAE
With a VAE, you can put your foot down, enjoy the scenery and treat yourself to a sporting feat with 1,000 meters of ascent without suffering thanks to electric assistance. It's the perfect option for those who want to combine exploration and physical activity without too much fatigue.
14
Highlights
Bathing places
Cross an enchanting valley dotted with emerald-colored pools
The valley stretches for around 20 kilometers and offers numerous natural pools and waterfalls. From the cold heights of the Rotondo massif, the torrent has carved superb gorges, punctuated by basins ideal for daydreaming and bathing.
15
Hotels
Hotel Duc de Padoue
Day 5 : Vivario
16
Stations
Corte - Vizzavona
Departing from Corte, nestled deep in the mountains, the train winds its way through some of the island's most spectacular scenery. The famous Tavignano and Restonica gorges soon come into view, carving their way through the rugged landscape. Their crystal-clear waters sparkle in the sunlight, offering a striking contrast to the surrounding pine and chestnut forests.
The journey continues through tunnels and viaducts, meandering through unspoilt countryside where silence is disturbed only by the rhythm of the train. As you approach Vizzavona, the vegetation becomes denser, marking the entrance to one of Corsica's most majestic forests. After about an hour's journey, you reach Vizzavona, gateway to the famous GR20.
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Highlights
Natural heritage
Follow forest paths to a waterfall
Take to the paths of the deep Vizzavona forest, located in the heart of Corsica, to follow several waterfalls and natural baths.
18
Sites and historical monuments
En route to an 8,000-year-old natural shelter.
En route to an 8,000-year-old natural shelter: you'll take a short hiking trail, totally immersed in nature.
19
Bed and breakfast
Accommodation in a double B&B with breakfast in Vizzavona
Accommodation in a double B&B with breakfast in Vizzavona
Day 6 : Ajaccio
20
Stations
Vizzavona - Ajaccio
Leaving Vizzavona, perched at an altitude of 906 metres, the train begins its descent towards the island's west coast. Before you know it, the majestic Vizzavona forest, with its century-old laricio pines and beech trees, passes before your eyes, giving way to the first panoramic views of the Corsican valleys. The route winds through a spectacular landscape, alternating bridges, tunnels and deep gorges, where rivers sparkle between the rocks. Gradually, the vegetation changes: dense forests give way to Corsican scrub, bathed in the scents of myrtle and immortelle. As the train nears Ajaccio, the relief softens and the sea becomes the backdrop. The sea air makes itself felt, heralding your arrival in the imperial city. After about an hour's journey, you reach the Corsican capital.
21
Optional
Tasting
Evening dinner at sea departing from Ajaccio
Imagine yourself on a state-of-the-art boat anchored in the Gulf of Ajaccio, tasting local Corsican products, a glass of wine in hand, lulled by the sound of guitars.
Depart for the Sanguinaires Islands at sunset.
Enjoy a wine tasting hosted by a Master Sommelier in the presence of the winemaker.
22
Hotels
Hotel Campo dell Oro
Day 7 : Ajaccio
23
Guided tours
Unusual visit to Ajaccio Citadel
Today, Ajaccio reveals its secrets to you on an unusual, fun and instructive tour, suitable for all ages, so you can learn while having fun!
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Leisure and recreation
Visit Ajaccio by bike or scooter
Explore the Gulf of Ajaccio by bike or electric scooter for a unique experience combining historical heritage, natural wonders and swimming in translucent waters. This adventure gives you a complete view of all the splendors this magnificent region has to offer...
25
Hotels
Hotel Campo dell Oro
Day 8 : Ajaccio
Arrival
Transfer (Taxi, VTC)
Transfer to Ajaccio airport
Transfer by cab.
Card
Card
Activities along the route
Practical information
The Pass Liberta is a pass that allows you to travel freely on the entire Corsican Railways network (except the suburbs) for 7 consecutive days. It is personal and non-transferable. The hotels have been chosen to be less than 10 minutes' walk from the station.
From
727 €
per person
Price
This price includes
1 night in Bastia, hotel 3* in double room with breakfasts
1 night in Ile-Rousse, hotel 2* in double room with breakfasts
1 night in Calvi, hotel 3* in double room with breakfasts
1 night in Corte, hotel 3* in double room with breakfasts
1 night in Vizzavona, in double room with breakfasts
2 nights in Ajaccio, in a 4* hotel in a double room with breakfasts
The Liberta pass valid for the entire journey
The transfer on the day of your arrival between Bastia airport and your accommodation
The transfer on the day of your departure between your accommodation and Ajaccio airport
Transport only if a departure city is selected.
Optional
Our local advisors have put together a number of optional offers to personalize your trip.
In addition to your program, you can choose to book with us:
Routing between accommodation and stations
Complete comprehensive insurance (with or without health protection).
Any optional pensions not mentioned in "This price includes".
Extras and expenses of a personal nature.
Anything not mentioned in "This price includes".
Optional activities
- Sailing in the Gulf of Calvi from Calvi
- Evening dinner at sea departing from Ajaccio
This price does not include
- Tourist taxes, extras, and personal expenses.
- Any optional meals not mentioned in "This price includes."
- Anything not mentioned in "This price includes."