Corsica’s fiercely

Corsica’s fiercely independent spirit runs deep. Once ruled by Genoa, briefly independent in 1755 under Pasquale Paoli, it was annexed by France in 1769, the year Napoleon Bonaparte was born on the island, but it remains uniquely Corsican. “For those seeking an authentic, unspoiled destination, Corsica offers a magnificent mix of nature, gastronomy, culture, history, and understated luxury. Notably, Le Mouflon d’Or in Zonza was named one of the Top 5 hotel openings worldwide in 2025 by the Michelin Hotel Guide. One of our favourite things is a full day exploring the traditional and incredibly picturesque villages of La Balagne that cling to the hillsides between the sea and the mountains, including a private visit to a local wine producer and a traditional Corsican picnic featuring fresh, local products. It’s a feast for all the senses, one of those experiences you’ll never forget.” Normandy - history, art and culture “Stand on Omaha Beach at dawn. The sea is steel-grey, gulls wheel overhead, and the breeze carries the quiet weight of history. You can feel it deep in your soul” says Mark. From the Norman Conquest of 1066 to the D-Day landings of 6 June 1944, this region has shaped world history from Bayeux’s 11thcentury tapestry embroidered epic to the Hundred Years War and the execution of Joan of Arc in Rouen, to glorious towns and bucolic countryside that inspired the impressionists. “For 2026 travellers seeking immersive, story-rich journeys, Normandy delivers depth with its lush history, dramatic landscapes, and increasingly refined experiences such as boutique manoir stays, and cooking classes where you’ll experience Norman cuisine - think apples, cream and fresh caught fish. Mont-Saint-Michel © Jeremy Flint “We love to include experiences that take you deeper into the culture and history of a place, for instance private historian-led tours often featuring researched connections to the past. Or maybe after hours visits at Mont- Saint-Michel or even playing an interactive game - Who Murdered Abbé Corbeau? A 19th-century murder mystery set within Mont- Saint-Michel, where guests uncover the truth behind the Abbé’s death. And for history buffs, a Private D-Day British Sector Jeep Tour, boarding an authentic WWII Willys Jeep to explore the Normandy coast - it’s not about coming for the history, it’s about feeling it.” Normandy appeals both to history enthusiasts and to those looking for immersive, storydriven travel. Burgundy - heritage and wine In Burgundy, mornings begin with mist rising from vine-covered slopes and church bells echoing across limestone villages. Life here is unhurried - deliberately so. The powerful Dukes of Burgundy in the 14th and 15th centuries made this region a cultural and political force in Europe. Dijon’s Ducal Palace and Beaune’s Hôtel-Dieu, with its glazed-tile roof, remain as symbols of that prosperity. Burgundy’s cuisine is famous, boeuf bourguignon slow-cooked in local wine, Époisses with its famously stinky aroma, mustard workshops in Dijon that Wining and dining like royalty in Beaune Burgundy is a gastronomic star Private tastings make you realise you’ve never really tasted mustard before. And wine, of course, is the enduring legacy. Omaha beach Burgundy vineyards 38 | The Good Life France The Good Life France | 39