For those with enough determination and stamina, the views from some of the coastal roads and mountain tracks are breathtaking. Because of the rough terrain, mountain bikes (vélos tous terrains or VTTs) are preferable over other types of bicycles and can be hired in Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, Porto and Propriano.
The best time for cycling is during mid-season: May - June and September - October, when the weather is slightly cooler and the roads quieter. To escape the traffic completely there are numerous footpaths, woodland trails and 1,900 kilometres of bridleways which will enable you to discover more of the island's natural beauty, the best of which are near Forêt de l'Ospédale, Bavella and the Coscione Plateau in the south. There is also a coastal path between St Florent and L'Ile Rousse which provides cyclists with views of some of the island's most outstanding scenery. The Mare e Monti Sud hiking path which runs between Propriano and Porticcio is one of the island's best opportunities for cycling as are the tracks of coastal Sartenais.
And don't forget that for the first time in 2013 the Tour de France is set to commence in Corsica - Porto Vecchio to be precise. See more on our dedicated 2013 Tour de France page!
For those who prefer to have more than just pedal power, quad biking through the maquis may be a better choice.
