The Seychelles is certainly a dream holiday destination, but with flights costing upwards of £700 and taking over 12 hours to reach these beautiful islands, it may not be quite so popular with UK tourists. However, for those looking to soak up the sun without breaking the bank, there is a Seychelles dupe much closer to home.
Just a two-hour flight from the UK is the French island of Corsica, famed as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. And, a trip to this beautiful island won’t cost an arm and a leg with budget holiday finders Holiday Pirates, having recently shared a week-long trip for just £174, including both accommodation and flights. In a video shared to their Instagram, the holiday experts write: “Locals gatekeep this island because it’s SO beautiful and cheap.
“It could pass for the Seychelles, but it’s only two hours away.” In the video caption, they added: “Could this be the most underrated island in Europe?”
Corsica has numerous stunning beaches, including two that appeared on TripAdvisor’s list of the 25 best beaches in Europe. In the seventh spot was Plage de Palombaggia in Porto-Vecchio, which also came 17th on the list of the best beaches worldwide.
This stunning beach is a true paradise, with turquoise water, long stretches of white sand, and stunning views of the nearby Îles Cerbicale.
Rounding out the list of the best European beaches was Plage de Santa Giulia, located in the resort town of Santa Giulia, and a popular choice for those interested in scuba diving and snorkelling.
On the southern tip of the island is the city of Bonifacio, home to a medieval citadel and beautiful old town, making it a great choice of destination for history buffs or just those who enjoy doing some exploring while on holiday.
Taking to TripAdvisor, one visitor to Bonifacio wrote: “We almost couldn’t get tired of this sight on the rocks, the houses just look awesome and the alleys are super photogenic, even if our photos are not the best now. Really wonderful to stroll through!
“If someone is not well on foot, you can also drive someone up by car.. maybe you will also find a parking space. At sunset also climb the opposite hill, which allows a wonderful panorama!”
While another wrote: “Absolutely beautiful. I am so chuffed we finished our beautiful holiday here at this gorgeous port. My girls loved it!!”
And a third added: “The Citadel of Boniface, for mere mortals, the old city, is something to visit once in a lifetime.
“You are transported back in time and it almost seems to be at a playground where the city is made of papier-mâché paper. Everything is as it once was, intact, well preserved and clean. Really beautiful.”
