Corsica
A Mediterranean island with an Italian soul
Although Corsica belongs to France, Italian influences and a distinct Corsican culture shape the island’s character. Set amongst dense forests, towering mountain peaks and stunning sandy beaches, the ‘Île de Beauté’ is remarkably diverse. The highest mountain, Monte Cinto, and numerous challenging hiking trails make Corsica a paradise for active travellers. Edelweiss operates regular direct flights to the island. A round trip by hire car, bus or train takes you to five particularly charming destinations, combining nature, culture and the Mediterranean way of life.
Hiking between the mountains and the coast
The legendary GR20 is considered one of the most challenging long-distance hiking trails in Europe. Stretching some 180 kilometres, it crosses Corsica from Calenzana in the north to Conca in the south. Those who prefer a more relaxed pace can explore the spectacular Calanques de Piana with their red rock formations rising steeply from the sea. Our tip: a boat trip along the Calanques or through the Gulf of Calvi opens up a whole new perspective.
Dream beaches & turquoise sea
Palombaggia delights with its white sand, crystal-clear water and evergreen pine trees. Rondinara and Plage de Saleccia also invite you to swim and relax. A trip to the Lavezzi Islands is particularly impressive: on a catamaran or boat trip, you can discover the fascinating underwater world whilst snorkelling. The impressive caves of Bonifacio are also particularly spectacular when viewed from the water.
Bonifacio, Ajaccio & special island moments
The town of Bonifacio, perched on dramatic cliffs, offers breathtaking views across the Mediterranean. Ajaccio, the capital and birthplace of Napoleon, is best explored on an open-top bus tour. Other highlights include the Sanguinaires Islands and the picturesque mountain villages in the island’s interior. Adventure seekers can explore the Zoicu Gorge whilst canyoning or go on a water hike along the Vecchio – there’s something for everyone, from a relaxed family outing to a challenging tour for keen swimmers.
Corsican cuisine & island wines
Corsican cuisine is hearty and full of character: wild boar ragout, spit-roasted lamb, traditional charcuterie, soups, pâtés and gratins are just as much a part of it as the famous Brocciu cheese and fresh fish. You can discover some of the finest Corsican wines during a tasting at the Domaine Zuria vineyard. Recommended restaurants include La Table by Villa with its beautiful terrace, the charming Boccafine, Da Noi perched on a rocky outcrop, Le Pirate right by the sea, and Radiche. For traditional Corsican cuisine, A Mandria di Pigna is highly recommended.
Stylish accommodation
The choice in Corsica ranges from luxurious hotels to characterful retreats nestled in the Corsican countryside. Tucked away amongst olive groves and citrus trees in the Ortolo Valley lies A Mandria: in the Murtoli family’s new retreat, elegant stone houses blend with the Mediterranean way of life and an atmosphere of tranquillity. The Hotel VILLA MAIER has just eight exclusive rooms and suites and is situated just a few steps from the beach. Lagnonu, near Ajaccio, is nestled in a beautiful natural landscape, whilst Villa Urbana offers another stylish place to stay on the island.
Greenland
Ice, vast expanses and Arctic adventures
Greenland is not a traditional holiday destination, but rather a destination for explorers. As the world’s largest island, situated between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, this autonomous region within the Kingdom of Denmark offers a unique landscape of ice, fjords and unspoilt wilderness. Just around 60,000 people live here. The journey to Nuuk involves a stopover in Iceland; alternatively, Greenland can also be explored beautifully on a cruise.
Icebergs & UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Ilulissat Icefjord and Disko Bay are among Greenland’s most impressive landscapes. Huge icebergs drift through the Arctic waters, whilst the Jakobshavn Glacier – one of the world’s most active and fastest-moving glaciers – offers particularly spectacular sights. Our tip: the region can be explored on foot, by boat or from the air.
Arctic wildlife
On boat trips, you can spot whales in the icy waters, whilst the North-East Greenland National Park is home to musk oxen, polar bears and walruses. The fjords of Scoresby Sund are a sight to behold, with their spectacular ice formations. Prince Christian Sound is also a fascinating place, with glaciers and icebergs formed by breaking-off ice masses.
Inuit culture & colourful towns
In Nuuk, Greenland’s modern capital, colourful houses, art, culture and Arctic nature come together. The National Museum and the Nuuk Art Museum offer insights into Greenland’s past and present. In Qaqortoq and Tasiilaq, art, local traditions and outdoor adventures beckon. The Sisimiut Museum displays historical artefacts and a reconstructed turf house, whilst the open-air museum in Nanortalik illustrates traditional ways of life.
Through the wilderness with sled dogs
In summer, hiking, fishing trips and excursions to the volcanic island of Disko – with its black sand beaches, waterfalls and glaciers – beckon. In winter, dog sledding across the ice offers one of Greenland’s most authentic experiences. And the Northern Lights dance across the Arctic sky: there is hardly a better place in the world to witness them.
Specialities from the Arctic
Greenlandic cuisine is based on freshly caught fish, game and foraged berries. Specialities include suaasat, a hearty stew made with seal meat; mattak (whale skin with a layer of blubber); dried fish or meat; boiled cod; fresh prawns; and nipisa, the roe of the lodde fish. Recommended restaurants include Qooqqut Nuan, which stands out for its fresh, local ingredients and warm atmosphere, and the Roklubben restaurant on Lake Ferguson. The Inuit Café offers both European and Asian cuisine, as well as a selection of dishes inspired by local ingredients.
Staying by the ice fjord
The Hotel Arctic in Ilulissat is situated directly on the UNESCO-protected ice fjord and is considered the world’s northernmost four-star hotel. Other recommended places to stay include the centrally located Hotel Hans Egede in Nuuk and the Hotel Icefjord on the coast of Ilulissat, overlooking Disko Bay and its icebergs. The Hvide Falk is also a good choice. The Hotel Angmagssalik, situated above the town of Tasiilaq, also offers impressive views of the fjord and mountains. Numerous cruises also sail along the Greenlandic coast, connecting the island with Iceland or Svalbard.
Singapore
Where the future meets cultural diversity
Singapore is often seen merely as a stopover on the way to other Asian destinations – yet the city-state is a fascinating destination in its own right. Around twelve and a half hours’ flight from Zurich, Chinese, Malay and Indian influences blend here with futuristic architecture and extraordinary modernity. Swiss and Singapore Airlines operate regular direct flights to Singapore.
Icons of the future
Gardens by the Bay, with its futuristic Supertrees and impressive conservatories, is one of the city’s landmarks. From Marina Bay Sands, spectacular views of the skyline unfold. In the evening, the Spectra Light & Water Show illuminates the bay. Our tip: When arriving or departing, be sure to allow time for Jewel Changi – the spectacular indoor waterfall is one of the most impressive airport experiences in the world.
Sentosa – an island for everyone
The offshore island of Sentosa offers entertainment to suit every taste: Adventure Cove Waterpark, golden beaches, golf, a casino, an aquarium and Universal Studios Singapore. The cable car offers a particularly impressive way to reach the island. For a break by the sea, we recommend the Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa.
Gardens, museums & neighbourhoods
The Singapore Botanic Gardens delight visitors with an extraordinary variety of plants, whilst the Cloud Forest fascinates with its prehistoric-looking landscapes. Art and culture enthusiasts should visit the ArtScience Museum, the National Museum or the National Gallery of Singapore. In Little India and Kampong Gelam, Singapore’s cultural diversity comes to life. Fort Canning Park and the revitalised Clarke Quay also invite you to explore. For shopping, the famous Orchard Road is highly recommended.
A culinary world tour
Singapore is a paradise for food lovers. The numerous hawker centres bring together Chinese, Indian, Malay and Western influences. Specialities include fish head curry, a wide variety of Malay-inspired dishes and the famous Singapore black pepper crab. A Singapore Sling at the Long Bar of the legendary Raffles Hotel is an absolute must during your visit. Anyone wishing to explore the city’s culinary scene should simply make their way through the hawker stalls – covered open-air markets – and sample the fare.
Our hotel recommendations
The Mandarin Oriental overlooks Marina Bay and promises pure luxury and first-class service. The Fullerton Hotel captivates with its historic character, whilst the Marina Bay Sands epitomises futuristic luxury and iconic architecture. The Fullerton Bay Hotel offers elegant exclusivity, and on Sentosa, the Shangri-La Rasa Resort combines relaxation right on the beach with a tropical ambience.
