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Day 2: Piana to Porto 8 mi / 12kms / 4 ½ hrs
An old mule path leads through the astonishing rock formations of the Calanche de Piana. And the vivid russet colors are simply amazing. Picnic at the Rocher de Chateau - superb views over the entire bay - then re-join the little forest path, (wild orchids, lilac muscari, and pretty white garlic flowers), as you gently come down to the beach at Porto.

Day 3: Porto to Evisa 10mi / 16kms / 6 hrs
A gradual ascent through olive and lemon groves as you leave the coast and head inland. First stop is in Ota, a picturesque village clinging precipitously to the maquis-covered mountains. Felix understands the importance of a cool beer, so take time to stop off at his bar – the views from the terrace are simply stunning. You then follow the curve of the River Porto – lots of little marmites(natural rock pools) if you fancy a swim – before heading into the famous Spelunca Gorge. The naturally shaded, pine-clad path takes you all the way to Evisa where the panoramic hotel pool awaits!

Day 4: Evisa, "Pearl of the Mountains"
At 830m above sea level, and on the edge of the majestic Aitone Forest, Evisa is a charming and traditional mountain village. It’s a great base for walking too. Perhaps follow a circular route to the Cascades de la Valla Scarpa, where the emerald waters of the Aitone fall into a series of inviting rock pools – great for swimming or simply cooling your feet! Or picnic beneath the thousands of soaring Laricio and Maritime pines, endemic to the island. Alternatively just laze by the hotel pool and enjoy the grandstand view.

Day 5: Evisa to Calacuccia 11 mi / 18kms / 5hrs
Spectacular sights all day today. This is the very heart of the island. The imposing silhouette of snow-capped Monte Cinto (2710m), Corsica's highest mountain, towers overhead and the air is heavy with thyme, juniper and wild growing mistletoe. Low-flying yellow pippins dart in and out of the tall white asphodels as you pass the red-tiled roofs of Calasima before finally dropping to the huge lake at Calacuccia.

Day 6: Calacuccia to Corte 10mi/ 16 kms /5 1/2 hrs
After a short (30min) transfer to the Bocca d’Arinella you pass the rustic shepherd’sbergerie-Antoine’s lived here all his life, owns over 1000 ewes that he milks (by hand!) twice a day – en route to the Tavignano Gorge. It’s an area of exceptional natural beauty. Waterfalls, cascading streams and lots of flat-top rock pools – perfect for a short snooze in the sun!

Day 7: Free day in Corte
Corsica's old capital is full of historic interest, culture and charm. Visit the ancient Citadel, lunch on the bustling square or join the mountain railcar as it chugs through the pretty little villages. Or, if you choose to simply hang up your boots, there's a lovely swimming pool back at the hotel !

Day 8: Leave Ajaccio
We take you to Alaccio airport after breakfast.