Prunelli Gorges, Honey Farm & Countryside

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Corsica is not only famous for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, it is also known for offering visitors some of the most stunning landscapes in the Mediterranean.

You'll have the good fortune of experiencing Corsica's rugged beauty during this half-day, guided tour. You'll be greeted at the pier by a friendly and knowledgeable guide who will join you aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned motorcoach. From here you will be transported away from your port city and deep into the dramatic interior of the island.

Travel along winding roads past lush, verdant countryside en route to the Cricheto Pass, a magnificent mountain pass located 2,870 feet above sea level. Step off your motorcoach and step aboard a charming, little wheel train (a tram made to look like a small train). This open-air trolley tram will take you on a 45-minute, narrated ride through the wild, gorgeous landscape.

Your guide will point out the flora and fauna of the area as you pass through a majestic sun-dappled chestnut forest. Learn about the macchia, a mixture of evergreen herbs comprised of rock rose, Corsican mint and myrtle that is found throughout the island. Take a deep breath and experience the aroma of this chaparral that is so fragrant, Napoleon is said to have been able to recognize "his" island with his nose. In fact, locals use extracts from these flowers and plants to create popular perfumes and aromatherapy products that are sold around the world.

No exploration of Corsica is complete without seeing its stunning Prunelli Gorges. Following your train ride, re-board your motorcoach for a drive further inward and upward. Have your camera at the ready as you'll enjoy a stop to take in the magnificent beauty of these deep red granite cliffs that plunge to a river surrounded by gorgeous chestnut and pine forests and majestic mountains.

Your drive will then continue along the gorges as they wind their way to Tolla Lake. Stop at a viewpoint overlooking this man-made lake, which is the main source of electricity and drinking water in the region. The vistas of the glittering lake, the impressive dam, and the towering upper gorge are awe-inspiring, so don't put your camera away!

You've taken in the sights, sounds, and smells of Corsica, so naturally it's time to experience a "taste" of the island as well. Your next stop is a visit to a local honey farm where you will learn all about production of sweet, unique Corsican honey. With a climate that allows bees to gather honey all year from hundreds of the island's wildflowers, there is naturally a wide variety of flavors. And you'll get a chance to sample some of them during the course of your tour.

With all your senses satisfied, you can sit back and relax on your scenic return drive to Ajaccio and your ship.

Special Notes:

This tour is not recommended for passengers who experience vertigo: the gorge roads are extremely winding with severe hair-pin turns. The drive along gorges is made in one direction only.