THE HILLS OF Corsica

Writer Lucy Gornall took on the ultimate adventure trip when she explored the mountains of Corsica

- Lucy Gornall

The small French island of Corsica, off the east coast of mainland France, isn't somewhere I'd ever thought to visit. Simply because I'd never thought there was much to do there. My ignorance was challenged, however, as I took a two-day adventure trip to Corsica with The North Face, which certainly lived up to the brand's motto 'Never Stop Exploring'.

With an adventure-filled itinerary, packing for my trip meant filling my case with The North Face's hiking boots, trail trainers, various layers and other temperaturecontrol kit, as well as some swimwear for chilly morning cold dips. It was time for some adrenaline...

MOUNTAINS FOR MILES

After a short 90-minute flight to Nice, I took an even shorter 50-minute flight to the airport in Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica. It was clear as soon as I stepped off the plane that Corsica was the perfect choice for an adventure-packed trip. I was surrounded by luscious green mountains - some snow-capped - and the drive to my hotel gave me an insight into just how nature-filled the island is, with greenery all around me and a gorgeous coastline.

After arriving at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa on the west coast of Corsica, I had half-an-hour to refresh before the threehour 'Sentier des Crêtes' hike up to Mont Salario in the Bois des Anglais, an area of Ajaccio. Here, I also met up with the rest of my group, who I'd be spending the next two days with.

Led by a local guide, we set off walking. The route took us into the hills with beautiful views of the sea throughout. Although rocky, the path was comfortable to walk on, and several trail runners shot past as we hiked.