Fancy a winter getaway to Corsica? Great idea! Far from the summer hustle and bustle, the Island of Beauty transforms into a true haven of peace. With snow-capped peaks, deserted beaches, and blue skies with mild temperatures, winter in Corsica reveals a season full of charm. Expect stunning landscapes, peaceful villages, and a rich, flavourful cuisine. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover the island’s secrets in a serene, timeless atmosphere.

At Riva Bella, every moment is the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate, whatever the season. Treat yourself to a weekend escape, combining a night in our villas or chalets with relaxing moments at the thalassotherapy centre. Discover the benefits of heated seawater through our hydrotherapy treatments and unwind with our massages. Also, enjoy an idyllic setting: a fine sandy beach bordering the resort, the Terranzana ponds, the Corsican scrubland, and the mountains as a backdrop.

Travel back in time through these typically Corsican towns. Culture, history, architecture: heritage lovers will be delighted.

• Bastia:
  Wander through the citadel of Bastia. Its narrow streets, tall, colourful houses, and the Governor’s Palace, which recounts the town’s history. It's also one of the best viewpoints over the town and its surroundings. Don’t miss the many beautifully decorated religious buildings.

• Bonifacio:
  Perched on its majestic limestone cliffs, Bonifacio offers an impressive view. Stroll through the maze of narrow medieval streets in the citadel, a true historical labyrinth, and don’t miss the King of Aragon’s staircase, which offers incredible panoramas at every step. Walk in the footsteps of the former soldiers guarding the town at the Bastion of L’Etendart or along the Saint-François Battery’s round path.

• Corte:
  In the heart of the mountains, overlooking the Restonica Valley, Corte transports you back in time. Visit the Museum of Corsica in the citadel and discover the island’s history. Admire the view from the belvedere.

When the peaks turn white, it's time to swap your snorkel and mask for skis and hit the slopes. Three ski resorts welcome you, guaranteeing fun and adventure. Equipment can be rented on-site, and for beginners, certified instructors are available to assist you.

• The Ghisoni ski resort: three slopes for all levels.

• The Asco ski resort: ideal for families, with 600m of slopes for beginners and the possibility of learning at the ski school.

• The Val d’Ese ski resort: in central Corsica, offering a vast ski area for all levels with four ski lifts.

Meet the mascots of the Riva Bella resort. Opt for a short walk accompanied by our donkeys, llamas, and pigs. Make new friends by offering them some treats: they love greens. And after this escapade, head to the free sauna (reserved for residents) for a well-deserved moment of relaxation.

Corsica is a paradise for hikers in both summer and winter. For the white season, equip yourself with snowshoes and set off on an adventure. Enjoy exceptional panoramas under the snow-capped mountains.

Many guides offer group or individual tours. Don’t forget to gear up: winter trousers, fleece, gloves, hat, scarf, cereal bars, and a water bottle.

• The Cuscione Plateau

• The Vizzavona Forest

• The Bavella Forest

• Val d’Ese with the Pozzi, Bastani Lake, and Monte Renoso

Where to rent snowshoes in Corsica?
Rental agencies are available in Val d’Ese, Asco, Ghisoni, and central Corte.

After a beautiful day of hiking, nothing beats relaxing in Corsica's natural hot springs. In an old washhouse, enjoy the therapeutic virtues of sulphur-rich water. At over 42°C, 15 minutes is enough to feel the benefits. For the more adventurous and for an even more intense experience, start with a dip in the cold water of the nearby river before enjoying the hot springs.

To prolong these wellness escapes, here are other establishments:

• Pietrapola les Bains
• Les Bains de Caldane in the heart of Alta Rocca
• Les Bains d’Urbalacone

There’s no wrong season to indulge in Corsican specialities. Inns welcome you and prepare delicious recipes using local ingredients:

• Campo di Morte

• U Rataghju

Craftsmanship in Corsica showcases the richness of local materials, combining traditional skills and creativity. Rooted in island traditions, artisans favour materials like clay, wood, and metal. Their creations include ironwork, the famous Corsican knife, chestnut wood furniture, and pottery, both practical and decorative. To discover the artisans who welcome you into their workshops, check the list here: www.gustidicorsica.com.

Bad weather ahead? No worries, we’ve got the perfect plan B: a movie session at the Excelsior. Located just 30 minutes from Riva Bella, this cinema stands out for its originality. Its uniqueness? A bar is set just behind the projection screen. Before diving into the movie, the owner invites you to share a friendly moment over a drink.

Exploring Corsica by bike in winter lets you discover the island from a whole new perspective. Quieter roads, between wild coasts and majestic mountains, offer the perfect setting for leisurely rides or sporty challenges. It’s time to hop on your bike.

Starting from Riva Bella, numerous routes guide you through vineyards and citrus orchards. You can also head to the Aléria fort, an ancient site where the exhibition of excavations takes you back in time, by following the old railway line.

You can also find a selection of cycling routes on the Visorando app by selecting the mountain biking trails.

Need a breath of fresh air? Lace up your trainers, grab a jacket, and off you go. With autumn and spring colours, gentle sunshine, and unspoiled nature: Corsica offers the perfect playground for leisurely walks or sporty hikes to recharge in nature.

Just a stone’s throw from Riva Bella:

• The walk around the Terranzana ponds

• The Mare e Stagnu trail and the Diane pond

• The Pinia forest in the pine forest

Or further afield:

• The Trou de la Bombe with the Bavella Needles as a backdrop

• The Grotto of the Resistance for a leap back into the time of island resistance

• The Seneca Tower for an overview of Cap Corse

Discover more hiking trails in this guide to getaways from the resort or on the free Visorando app.