Walking through the maquis – Corsica

Our two week sojourn in Corsica is coming to an end. We have had the privilege of being hosted at a sixteenth century stone tower that looms large above the tiny village of Morsiglia with extensive views of the Mediterranean from its rooftop deck which the family takes full advantage of for incredible sunsets and general hanging out when the wind doesn’t blow. It is an incredible structure that was likely built as a private residence, but may have later been used as a refuge from pirates and it is said to connect via underground tunnels to two other towers in town!  The latter tale is one that is of great interest to the children – we have spent many an hour discussing how the pirates would moor their ships and amble up the cliffs to the village – we have walked on tiny trails up and down the coast with our eyes keenly seeking forgotten treasure. 

The island’s landscape has the rugged and wild feel of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada; however, with the warmth and delicious simple food of the Mediterranean. The summer like temperatures have given us the ability to swim in the turquoise blue sea well into late September. We picked up a diving mask and snorkle for the kids and they have taken turns (on the calm days) to explore the rocky shoreline observing colourful fish, sea urchans, sea snails and even a few jelly.

Ancient trail systems crisscross the whole island. The paths connect communities and allow access for the local hunters (‘Chasseurs’) to track the sanglier or local wild boar (along with other wildlife). We have been told the island has not received a good rain for over 7 months, which is unusual and the local flora are showing it. Despite the lack of mositure the environment seems resilient. The maquis or ground cover has shrubs and trees with gnarled roots and strong leaves that appear immune to the constant wind and blistering sun. 

The arid conditions have made the lives for the sangliers difficult as of late. The lack of rain has reduced the wild food for the bore in the forest, forcing them into the villages. They have caused havoc to local gardens and orchards due to their rooting and hole digging in search of roots and grubs to eat. We have been helping our neighbour, who has a garden at the base of  tower,  mend fences, fill holes and in an attempt to deter the pigs from further destruction. Our efforts have been semi successful and the kids have been rewarded for their efforts with gifts of local quince compote made from the very trees they were helping to protect.

We have had an incredible time and are so happy that part of Amy’s family has been able to join us too – uncle has been a great companion on the trails – he quoted saying ‘walk till you’re sore and then walk some more!’

Overall, we have spent our days hiking in the mountains, swimming and beach combing in the closest beach town of Mute and generally just settling into rural Corsican life. The 16th century tower in which we have been staying has been spectacular and our host equally as delightful and gracious in sharing her space. 

We feel very grateful for the opportunity to be at the very tower in which Amy and her family spent nearly 6 months; 30 years ago. 

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Hey party people! It’s Addy! Jake and I have settled into small town life like it’s home. We’ve been having lots of fun here with all the hikes and beaches we explore. Every morning Jake and I have been going down to the store to get bread and pastries. We have to walk through winding roads with cats roaming the streets (we’ve named a lot of them!) and focusing on the yummy pastries ahead. The ground is very dry and plants very wilty. One of our neghibors has a garden that has been totally destroyed by the sanglier so we helped to try and save it. Right now the wind is beating on the windows and blowing the waves so big there isn’t even a beach! Well I guess thats all for now… So see ya next blog post! Addy out.