exploring corsica
September 2026
Dominique Millar
*** Preliminary Itinerary ***
Explore a lesser-known Mediterranean island, proud of its prehistoric sites and rich ancient Roman, medieval and Napoleonic histories, with guided walks from its spectacular coasts to cool forests
OVERVIEW
Corsica remains one of the Mediterranean’s lesser-known islands, proud of its distinct identity in language, gastronomy and politics.
In ancient times its safe harbours guaranteed important trading partners, from Phoenicians and ancient Greeks to Etruscans and almighty Rome. The power of two rival medieval maritime empires, Pisa and Genoa, who colonised Corsica in the Middle Ages, can still be seen in the island’s outstanding architecture – and heard in the Corsican language. From the eighteenth century, Corsica became strongly associated with Europe’s modern political struggles, including the rise and fall of Napoleon and the independence movement led by Pasquale Paoli.
Corsica is equally celebrated for an extraordinary diversity of landscapes. Its coastlines vary from the dramatic red rocks and pristine seas outside Ajaccio to the precipitous limestone cliffs of Bonifacio in the south. The interior is characterised by mountain woods of chestnut and oak, with cool river valleys crossed by medieval Genoese bridges. Our local guide is also qualified to lead hikes, and has worked with us to design a select program of 4-5 walks that range from gentle to moderate.
TOUR LEADER
Dominique Millar is a well-known Sydney-based lecturer on European art and culture. He trained at the Julian Ashton Art School, where he won prestigious scholarships, and has exhibited at commercial galleries as well as being a finalist in numerous Australian art prizes. Dominique is known for his diverse range of art history and practical fine art courses for the WEA Sydney, regional galleries, independent art schools and art societies.
Highlights
Understand Corsica’s fascinating prehistory, at Filitosa’s evocative standing stones
Appreciate Mediterranean maritime history at Aléria, an archaeological site with a harbour used by Phoenicians, Etruscans and ancient Romans
Encounter outstanding medieval architecture, including Pisan Romanesque cathedrals and Genoese fortifications in the pretty port of Bastia
Survey the rise of local boy Napoleon, at Ajaccio’s museums and in the superlative art collection of his uncle Joseph Fesch
Admire Corsica’s diverse landscapes on 4-5 guided walks, from the rugged red rocks of its pristine coastline to cool mountain forests, Bonifacio’s dramatic cliffs and some of Europe’s most important wetlands
Questions?
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