Discovering the island in Spring: Visit Corsica in May

The locals will surely tell you with pride: in Corsica, the weather is always mild. Its therefore ideal to visit the island of beauty throughout the year. One of our favorite times to visit Corsica is spring, and particularly the month of May. Before the start of the high season, Corsica reveals its softer, more authentic side. The smell of the maquis in bloom emanates from the lush green landscapes, calling to us to discover them. Pack your bags, as we take you to visit Corsica in May. 

WHY VISIT CORSICA IN MAY?

If you are wondering what the advantages are in visiting Corsica in May, the answer is quite simple: sun and freedom are the key words. Spring marks the return of sunny days, and the perfect opportunity to escape for a weekend or longer in one of the most beautiful luxury holiday destinations. 

May's mild climate in Corsica

In May, Corsica comes back to life. With the arrival of spring, nature overflows with colours and budding flora. This is the perfect time to venture inland, explore the abundant maquis, the verdant mountains, and centuries-old forests.

The weather is particularly wonderful at this time. Temperatures are already around 19°C and, on the beautiful beaches, the bravest take take their first swim of the year. For sports enthusiasts, the climate offers the opportunity to tackle the most difficult hiking trails in the island of beauty, like the famous GR20, which is less bearable in the height of summer. As for gourmets, they can take full advantage of their lunches on the terrace with a view of the sea. 

Corsica in the off-season

The vast majority of tourists flock to the Corsican coasts during the summer holidays as roads, cities, beaches and cultural sites are taken by storm. Under the May sun, on the contrary, peacefulness still reigns over the most characterful of French territories. We freely enjoy our visits, however we wish.

It's also the best time to scour the markets and stock up on local produce, before the aisles get crowded. In restaurants or beach bars the atmosphere is still peaceful. We feel like we're alone in the world on this island made of extraordinary beauties.

WHAT TO DO IN CORSICA IN MAY? 3 MEMORABLE ACTIVITIES TO EXPERIENCE

Whatever the season, activities in Corsica are not lacking. In May, before the start of the high tourist season, we take more time to visit Corsica. We venture into the exceptional landscapes of this little piece of land, enjoy the beautiful beaches still free from the crowds, visit Corsica's cultural sites, and attend the key events of the season, which only the regulars know about.

1 - Admire a parade of sails in the Gulf of Ajaccio

In May, a new unmissable event for sailing enthusiasts is held in the Gulf of Ajaccio. For the third consecutive year, the imperial city welcomes the most beautiful sailboats for five days. Skippers and the curious come together to enjoy the good weather and the spring breeze.

We stroll along the coast observing the elegant sails of these boats, guided by the force of man and the wind. When the evening begins, we settle on a roof-top of the port, to have an aperitif and enjoy the festive atmosphere. 

2 - Enjoy the deserted beaches of Porto-Vecchio

If there is one thing that we particularly like in May, it is the freedom to enjoy the Corsican landscapes in complete privacy. Indeed, you will have no trouble finding a place for your towel on the beaches of the island, at this time of the year. Our preference goes to the beaches of the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio, in southern Corsica. 

Of course, there is Palombaggia beach, the most famous on the island. A strip of fine sand that seems endless, where we spend our days between the sand and the sea, already pleasant in spring. We also like Pinarello beach, which offers a beautiful walk and a unique view of the island of Pinarellu and its historic Genoese tower. Discover our entire selection of the best beaches in South Corsica, and choose yours. 

3- Explore the Sentier des Douaniers, in Cap Corse 

Northern Corsica is the wildest part of the island of beauty. And where Cap Corse begins, so does the real adventure. In May, the island benefits from a mild climate which invites hikers to surpass themselves.

Take the road to the extreme tip of Corsica, in the direction of the Sentier des Douaniers. The eight-hour walk between the towns of Centuri and Macinaggio might deter some, but it's well worth the effort. Along the road, we discover exceptional scenery between rocky ridges, small secret coves, wild maquis and mysterious mountains. 

WHERE TO STAY IN CORSICA IN MAY?

Le Collectionist finds the most beautiful luxury villas in the four corners of the world. And Corsica is no exception. Sumptuous residences above the most beautiful beaches in the south, discreet refuges in the hinterland or villas with a view of the citadels of the north: browse our collection of luxury Corsica villa rentals for an unforgettable holiday with your loved ones.

Our luxury villas in South Corsica

From Ajaccio to Porto-Vecchio, our villas in Southern Corsica have unparalleled panoramas in store for you. It is on this side of the island that you will find the most beautiful beaches and the liveliest towns. Find our favorites in our article on the best places to stay in southern Corsica.

Our luxury villas in North Corsica

Sharp and modern design or revisited traditional building: all our villas in Northern Corsica are perfect pied-à-terre for your holidays with family or friends. Choose between our two dream destinations: Calvi and Île Rousse, and discover authentic Corsica. From Cap Corse and its strings of small villages, to the Gulf of Porto and its extraordinary creeks, passing through the Fango Valley and its natural swimming pools, you will not stop being amazed. Find out where to stay in Northern Corsica in our article. 

With Le Collectionist, finding a beautiful luxury villa in Corsica has never been easier. Take advantage of Spring on the island of beauty to set off on an adventure in the heart of its exceptional landscapes.