Nature - Corsica is nothing like the image we have of a Mediterranean island. In fact, no other Mediterranean island has Corsica's lushness. With the green of the chestnut trees of Castagniccia, the green of the rustling bushes along the paths of the maquis (scrubland), the verdant mountain pastures that are at their most beautiful during the summer, the green of the vast forests of indigenous pine trees that are hundreds of years old and that stand outagainst the Aëtone sky, the emerald patches of the mountain lakes, the silvery green Nebbio olive groves, the transparency of the waterfalls and pools of Restonica, and the green lines of the Patrimonio vineyard in the spring. COME AND ENJOY THE FRAGRANCE OF THE HERB-SCENTED MAQUIS - With more than 2000 plant species, Corsica will dazzle you with colour. What is more, the Regional Nature Park of Corsica covers more than two thirds of the island. Five nature reserves protect some unique flora and fauna with the Cerbicale Isles that provide a sanctuary for crested cormorants, the Lavezzi Isles where 68 species of fish have been recorded, the Finocchiarola and Scandola isles that are France's leading land and sea reserve, and the Biguglia Pond where 127 species of aquatic birds nest. In the spring everything is in bloom and the maquis is at its most fragrant, and autumn is also a delight when the chestnut harvest is celebrated in the villages perched on the tops, making Corsica a delight to explore whatever the season. Walking on Corsica is the best way to explore the true Corsica. Wonder at the fortified granite houses and shepherds' dry-stone shelters, bathe in the pure water pools that have formed in the rocks from waterfalls, and enjoy the magnificent landscapesin the forests where you will perhaps come across one of the island's semi-wild pigs or catch a glimpse of the bearded vulture or the moufflon. Everywhere you go the many hiking trails take you right to the heart of the real Corsica. The most well known long-distance trail is the GR 20 (long-distance hiking route) that takes you across the upper mountains, from Calenzana (in the Calvi region) to Conca (in the Porto-Vecchio region). This difficult path is one of the most beautiful in the world. For easier routes, take the "Mare e Monti Nord" between Cargèse and Calenzala, and the "Mare e Monti Sud", from Porticcio to Propriano. Lastly, three long-distance routes link the two coasts, one of which, the "Mare a Mare Sud", is passable all year round. All along the route you will find a shepherd or villager who will show you a spring where you can stop to drink, and even the route of the old Genoese bridge. Accessible to all, country tracks will take you to the Alta-Rocca, close to the fabulous Bavella peaks. In the Bozio area your walk will take you to explore ancient Roman chapels decorated with frescos. The Niolo area is a paradise for mountain climbers and offers easy looped walks that will take you deep into the breathtaking pine forests. If you prefer mountain biking, you will also not be disappointed. Sporting circuits and loops that are perfect for family outings, with hundreds of forest paths, walking routes and short routes are open all year. Lastly if you like horse riding, you will enjoy Corsica. Almost 2000 km of tracks are open to riders and will take you to areas and villages that cannot be reached by road. So, saddle up!