Corse

Absolutely, I'd be happy to help you plan your ideal 10-day itinerary in Corsica! With your love for hiking, comfortable accommodations in gites, visits to charming villages, and exploring parks and nature, Corsica is the perfect destination for you. Let's dive into your day-by-day plan:

Day 1: Arrival in Bastia

• Arrive in Bastia, a picturesque port city in the north of Corsica
• Explore the historic Old Town and enjoy a leisurely dinner by the waterfront

Day 2: Cap Corse

• Head to Cap Corse, the northernmost part of the island known for its rugged coastline and charming villages
• Hike along the coastal trails and visit the villages of Nonza and Erbalunga
• Stay in a comfortable gite in the area

Day 3: Calvi

• Travel to Calvi, a beautiful town on the northwest coast
• Explore the citadel, stroll along the beach, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere
• Visit the nearby Scandola Nature Reserve for stunning landscapes

Day 4: Rest and Relaxation

• Take a day to relax and recharge at your gite or on the beach
• Enjoy the local cuisine and maybe even try some Corsican wine

Day 5: Corte

• Head inland to Corte, the historic capital of Corsica
• Explore the old town, visit the citadel, and hike in the surrounding mountains
• Stay in a gite in the heart of the Corsican mountains

Day 6: Restonica Valley

• Discover the stunning Restonica Valley with its crystal-clear rivers and dramatic rock formations
• Hike to the Melo and Capitello Lakes for breathtaking views
• Enjoy a peaceful evening in the valley

Day 7: Porto-Vecchio

• Travel to Porto-Vecchio on the southeast coast
• Explore the charming old town, relax on the nearby beaches, and visit the nearby Ospedale Forest

Day 8: Bonifacio

• Visit the stunning cliffside town of Bonifacio in the south of Corsica
• Explore the historic citadel, take a boat tour of the sea caves, and hike along the coastal cliffs
• Stay in a gite with a view of the Mediterranean

Day 9: Bavella Massif

• Hike in the Bavella Massif, known for its iconic needle-like rock formations
• Explore the Aiguilles de Bavella and enjoy panoramic views of the Corsican mountains
• Relax in a comfortable gite in the mountains

Day 10: Departure from Ajaccio

• Travel to Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, for your departure
• Explore the city, visit the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, and enjoy a final taste of Corsican cuisine before heading home

I hope this itinerary gives you a good balance of hiking, village visits, and nature exploration while staying in comfortable gites throughout your trip. Enjoy your 10 days in Corsica!