Why visit Corsica in May?
May is generally a favourite month for short getaways thanks to the many public holidays and long weekends. Corsica is an ideal destination to make the most of them. It's no coincidence that 5 million people choose to spend their holidays there in May and September. May is certainly the best time to come, as it guarantees an ideal experience for exploring Corsica. So why miss out? The A Santa Giulia holiday residence reveals the 8 advantages of visiting Corsica in May.
#1 / Right in the heart of spring
From the Easter holidays until mid-June, the weather and temperatures are ideal for exploring the island at a relaxed pace. Of course, we are never fully protected from the occasional spring shower, and that is what lets nature release its sweet floral scents. At this time of year, Corsica opens up to summer colours and the first songs of the cicadas, and you can be among the first travellers of the year to enjoy it.
With this in mind, we invite our holidaymakers to call on Stéphane Rogliano, a horticulturist specialising in Corsican wild plants who also works as a guide in the mid-mountains. Stéphane offers to share his passion through a few "walks with your nose", immersing you in the Corsican maquis. Suitable for both children and adults, these walks plunge you into an olfactory experience, a tribute to the island's vegetation and its best-kept secrets.
#2 / Better-value prices
The most popular period is also the most in demand: July and August. Outside these two months, you can access much more attractive prices for your Transport (ferry or plane) and your accommodation. Accommodation applies a mid-season rate for April-May and September-October. Tourist offices also organise fun activities at attractive prices. The tourist offices of Fiumorbo, Bonifacio, Ajaccio and Balagne all run programmes during this quieter period to boost tourist activity. You can take part in meetings and guided visits with local craftspeople and producers, or enjoy outdoor activities. Visit your local tourist office to find out more.
#3 / Ideal weather
Fortunately, Corsica enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild, damp winters and hot, dry summers. Spring is a perfect blend, both sunny and mild, which makes for fairly pleasant weather.
So if you're wondering what to wear, the answer is simple: pack a sweater for the mornings, which can be cool, around 10 to 15 °C. Then, during the day, temperatures generally reach 20 to 22 °C, so you can take off your jacket and enjoy the sunshine.
During these sunny days, you may be one of the brave ones to take a dip at the beach in Santa Giulia, where the water reaches 19 °C.
#4 / Cultural events not to be missed
Art'è Gustu
After two years on hold due to Covid-19, Corsica's must-attend culinary event is back. Art'è Gustu aims to celebrate craftsmanship and good taste in general by showcasing local producers and artisans over a two-day festival. It also welcomes several big names in French gastronomy, including the famous Pierre Hermé, chef Stéphanie Le Quellec and pastry chef Yann Couvreur.
Originally held in Aleria, in Haute-Corse, the festival will take place in Bonifacio for the first time this year. The event will run on 30 April and 1 May 2022.
The Cheese Fair in Venaco
The Venaco cheese fair is a must among the cultural events in Corsica. Its aim is to spotlight farm producers, with around a hundred exhibitors from all corners of the island coming to exchange, educate and sell their products. Several thousand visitors come each year to take part in the activities (brocciu making, tastings, competitions, live music) and to stock up on cheese and artisanal products.
The Regional Corsican Farmhouse Cheese Fair will also take place on 30 April and 1 May 2022 in Venaco, in central Corsica.
#5 / Low tourist numbers
3.5 million: that is the number of visitors to Corsica each year between June and September. Visiting Corsica in May also means going against the grain of the island's peak season in July and August. Whether on the road or on the beach, you will feel like you have these magnificent spots, usually so crowded, all to yourself. Tourism professionals, artisans and producers will also be far more available to answer your questions.
#6 / The perfect time for hiking
May and June are also the best months for mountain hiking. Although the weather can be a little unpredictable at times, temperatures are ideal for trekking in the highlands. For lovers of multi-day hikes, the GR20 refuges open from 22 May to 2 October 2022. Outside these dates, there will be fewer options for sleeping in the mountains.
#7 / Meeting local producers
At Les Toits de Santa Giulia, we invite our guests to discover the producers of the Porto-Vecchio region and taste their fine products. The Domaine de Torraccia is one of the wine producers that have made the Corsica AOC famous, with its ancestral grape varieties. Based 10 minutes from Porto-Vecchio, in Lecci, we recommend visiting their cellar to taste some superb bottles.
We also suggest exploring farmhouse cheese producers. At the Bergeries de Bala, 5 minutes by car from Porto-Vecchio, you can meet a shepherd who makes sheep's milk cheese. You will have the chance to taste authentic farmhouse cheeses.
We invite you to discover our partners, who will make your holiday unforgettable with fun and educational activities.
#8 / Staying at Les Toits de Santa Giulia
From 2 April, our 18 holiday rentals open their doors and welcome you for short stays (4-5 days).
From the moment you arrive, all our services will be at your disposal: breakfast service and aperitif baskets made with local produce. Our relaxation areas, with the heated swimming pool and the landscaped garden, will be ready to offer you a truly soothing retreat within our residence.
Would you like to stay with us? Browse our holiday rentals right now.
