The stunning citadel city of Bonifacio on the Mediterranean island of Corsica

Although politically part of France and only 112 miles off its south coast, the unspoilt Mediterranean island of Corsica is world's apart.

Characterized by neolithic monuments, grandiose mountains, a thousand kilometres of coastline, idyllic sandy beaches and dramatic coastal rock formations, Corsica's unique landscape also encompasses inland lakes, forests, gorges and desert.

The capital, Aljaccio, on the island's west coast, is filled with cafe-lined boulevards and summer hoards buying big in the boutique clothes shops. The island's most famous son, Napoleon Bonaparte, was born here, and the Maison Bonaparte - where the former emperor spent the first nine years of his life - is now a popular museum.

Corsica's other tourist hubs include the commercial centre of Bastia, the seaside resort of Porto-Vecchio and the stunning citadel city of Bonifacio with its ancient buildings perched precariously on limestone cliffs.

Despite its increasing popularity, Corsica has remained relatively untainted by tourism and still offers visitors something of a wilderness experience. Scuba diving and sailing in the azure waters are favourite pastimes, while the island is home to some of Europe's most challenging long-distance hikes, including the 170km-long GR20, which involves some hairy scrambles up sheer mountainsides. Those with extensive leg-stretching in mind might want to base themselves in the fortified town of Corte, surrounded by mountains full of hiking opportunities.

Accommodation in Corsica ranges from remote converted shepherds' huts in the mountains to luxury hotels in towns such as Propriano.

Corsica experiences hot, dry summers. It is serviced by four airports, including the Campo dell Oro airport near Ajaccio, and Poretta airport in Bastia.

Safety threat: Visitors to Corsica should be aware that Corsican separatists are involved in an ongoing bombing campaign on the island.