Piana, Cargese and Ajaccio
Full day tour
An excursion to discover natural and cultural wonders of this French Island. Magnificent sites, colors and history will impress you during this full day trip.
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Piana, Cargese and Ajaccio
9.00 am : Meet your driver and your guide at the feet of your cruise ship in Ajaccio
Drive north to reach Piana (about 1 hour and 15 mns driving) and its impressive rock formations -- monsters that defy the sea!
On the way, make a first stop in Cargese . Since the beginning of recorded history, the island was continually the prey of invading civilizations. You will be told the history of the two fabulous churches built opposite each other in the village, a Latin Catholic church, which is usual in France, and a Greek Catholic church, which is less usual, especially for such a small city.
Then, you will discover Porto , small village which is famous for its dazzling sunsets - one of the most magnificent in the Mediterranean. Boasting an unusual Genoese watchtower and bordered by red granite cliffs, it is unsurprising that Porto has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is a little pebble beach, but beware as it does get very busy in the summer months.
The road from Porto to Piana is one of the most awe-inspiring in the world. The Calanches de Piana , spiky red granite rocks jutting straight out of the sea, some rising to 1000ft. The colour of these rocks changes from deep orange to russet red and all the hues in between according to the time of day. Amongst the Calanches are 'Taffoni' or natural caves that provided shelter for the first men on the island. The village of Piana is one of France's most beautiful.
We suggest you to have lunch in the gastronomic restaurant of the hotel Capo Rosso in Piana with an incredible view over the Mediterranean sea.
On the way back to Ajaccio, if you have enough time, stop in Evisa, a mountain village located on the border of Aitone forest filled with walnut trees and animals.
Capital of the Corsican area, holidays in Ajaccio are about enjoying historical sights. Strolling atmospheric lanes filled with fascinating shops. Sipping sun-blushed wines in elegant plazas. And filling up with wonderful fresh food at restaurants marrying French and Italian culinary influences.
You see, you're in Corsica's capital – a bustling, charming town gracing a stunning blue-watered gulf bobbing with yachts . Complete with an evocative old town, stylish new district, vibrant 2
markets of colourful food stalls, and bayside restaurants serving mouth-watering Italian and French cooking such as bouillabaisse and seafood pasta, holidays in Ajaccio will fill you with delicious memories.
Culturally too, there's plenty of interest, thanks to the town's museum and monuments to its iconic son, Napoleon Bonaparte here in the Jardins de Casone, on balmy summer evenings, the 'Son et Lumiere' is performed in the shadow of this impressive testament to Bonaparte,and its Fesch museum, dripping with Italian masterworks. 'Get some seriously Corsican chill-out time in Ajaccio'
5.00 pm : Drop-off at your ship.
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NB: Please note that some sites mentioned in the itinerary might not be available every day or at certain times of the year. We suggest that you check with our Production Managers
This package includes
Deluxe minivan which can carry up to 6 passengers Professional English-speaking driver who will chauffeur you on your sightseeing Professional English-speaking guide tour who is licensed to guide and accompany you during your walking tours as well as within museums and monuments Découvertes fees 24-hour assistance available during your stay All taxes
This package does not include
Entrance fees Tips Meals
Découvertes can also provide:
Pre-payment of all entrance fees to museums and other sites Lunch reservations
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