Corsica: Where to Stay, Eat, Shop and More

With powdery white-sand beaches, rugged mountains and turquoise waters, Corsica has all the makings of a modern-day Eden. But although the French island has remained largely crowd-free, it offers a slew of luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants that make it one of the Mediterranean’s most alluring destinations.

Who Should Go: Couples and families in search of a quiet coastal escape, with opportunities for everything from boating and winery visits to hiking, including seaside walks and long-distance treks.

Where to Stay in Corsica

Like the island itself, the best hotels on Corsica are laid-back but extremely glamorous. Favorites include Grand Hôtel de la Cala Rossa, beloved for its picture-perfect sandy cove and family-friendly atmosphere; and Domaine de Murtoli, an exquisite country hideaway set on a sprawling estate surrounded by olive orchards. In 2018, a 28-room newcomer, Misincu, opened on the northern coast. The gorgeous hotel has a Zen-like aesthetic and offers a picturesque home base near the beach.

Where to Eat in Corsica

For its size, Corsica has an impressive number of Michelin-starred restaurants—and no wonder, considering the abundance of fresh seafood and local produce. Of course, meals are best eaten alfresco with sea views. For traditional rustic cuisine, A Pignata is as authentic as it gets, while the fantastic beach club Les Trois Deux is perfect for those seeking a scene.

Where to Shop in Corsica

Many of the most coveted Corsican finds are in the gourmet category, including its incredible wines. But the town of Porto-Vecchio also has a host of boutiques selling relaxed island fashion. Don’t miss Casanera, which offers beauty creams, essential oils, candles and soaps, all crafted using local products.

Island Secret: Indagare’s Marley Lynch encourages travelers to “book a charter to explore Corsica. Its diverse landscapes—the rugged peaks of the north, granite mountains on the west coast and powdery white-sand beaches of the south—are best visited from the water.”