Sardinia and Corsica are the brother and sister of the Mediterranean. Lively and vibrant, yet defiant and isolated, surrounded by crystal clear waters, these two islands offer contrasting adventures. The Sardinian port of Olbia is our meeting point from where we travel south to the beachside village of Cala Gonone. Based here for five nights, we walk to stunning coastal coves and use local boats to appreciate remote sections of the Orosei Gulf. Inland walks explore the Supramonte, a wild limestone dolomitic mountain chain rising up to 1463m. Part of Gennargentu National Park, this area includes forests of juniper, yew and holm oak; the karst spring of Su Gologone and the 400m limestone cliffs of Gorroppu Gorge, the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe’. While on Sardinia, we also learn about the ancient Nuragic civilization and visit La Maddalena Archipelago National Park on the northeast coast. This geo-marine protected area is known for its blue and green waters, pink beaches and tiny islets. Crossing by boat to Corsica, we stay overnight in the old town of Bonifacio, built on a dramatic limestone peninsula and surrounded by chalky cliffs that plunge dramatically to the sea. After day walks in the mountains surrounding Zonza, we travel via the rocky inlets and formations of Les Calanques de Piana with views of the azure Mediterranean. From the village of Corte, we walk in the glacier molded valleys of Restonica and Tavignano, visit the surrounding villages and sample some of Corsica’s finest cheeses and whisky. Our tour ends with a night in Bastia as we reflect on the geographical diversity and proud history of both islands.
- Compare the vibrant nature, culture & gastronomy of Sardinia & Corsica
- Access Sardinia’s east coast via boat & half day walks
- Hike sections of the dramatic Gorroppu Gorge in Gennargentu NP
- Delight in the changing water & beach colours of La Maddalena Archipelago NP
- Admire the view from Corsica’s Bonafacio & the 15th century citadel of Corte
- Enjoy hikes in the central Corsican mountains & the verdant valleys of Restonica & Tavignano
- Photograph the red granite cliffs & spiky outcrops of World Heritage listed Les Calanques de Piana
- Stay in comfortable seaside & mountain village accommodation while enjoying the regional specialties
Price: Twinshare / person (ex Olbia, ends Bastia) A$
Single Supplement: $A price on application
Note: For single people who prefer to share, we will try to find a suitable roommate, but if this is not possible the sole-use surcharge will apply.
Minimum Group size: 8 guests
Special Interest: Gourmet, Culture, History, Geology
Walk Rating: Moderate, 5-12km per walking day with some shorter or longer options.
Inclusions
- 15 nights twin share accommodation – hotel accommodation with some shared facilities
- Meals include – 15 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 15 Dinners
- All transfers as listed in itinerary
- National Park and museum entry fees
- Professional tour leader assisted when required by local tour guides
- Basic group tips where required
- Pre-departure material including background & personalised A-Z tour information and destination tour companion
Exclusions
- Airfares & taxes to start / from end of tour
- Airport transfers
- Passport & visa expenses
- Heavy or excess baggage
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses e.g. drinks (water, alcohol, tea & coffee), laundry, telephone, or optional tours / excursions
Telemaco Murgia
Born in the centre of Sardinia, the area known as a Blue zone (land of the ultra-centenarians), Telemaco has had a love of the outdoors and sports since adolescence. As a certified tourist and hiking guide, he has been leading groups for almost twenty years in Sardinia and Corsica and has participated in pioneering explorations in the wildest areas of the islands. Telemaco is a parachute instructor and personal trainer and is passionate about nature and archaeology. Telemaco competes in international adventure races and obstacle course racing and represents Italy all over the world.