Has anyone taken a ferry to Corsica from either Genoa or Livorno? Cost/timing? Also, any opinions on Corsica pls chime in - I'm deciding on whether to add this to our trip and spend a few days (2 or 3 enough?).

I'm afraid I can't help with the ferry but I have had a couple of holidays on Corsica and personally loved the place. You do not say if you will have your own transport, if not you could easily spend a few days round Calvi and if you want to go further afield there is a tram that runs along the coast to Ile Rousse via Algajola (sp?). I can't help with Bastia on the east coast, (another ferry port), as most of my time was spent round Calvi and in the south west of the island. If you have your own transport then you would be able to explore some of the gorgeous scenery inland, just remember what may look a short distance on a map can take ages to drive as the some of the roads are very twisty.

Thanks Jan. I've been reading a little on Corsica and Calvi sounds pretty. It's great to know about the tram. I read about a car ferry but may avoid that if it seems more hassle and just rent a car before/after. For 2 or 3 days I think your suggestions would keep us happy. Any idea of temps in November?

I've only been to Corsica in the summer but I took a quick look at my guide book and quote:-Average air temp. in November is 18 C/ 64 F plus rainfall is low in summer high in winter. We hired a car on the island, no problem, if you do decide to hire don't get anything too big, some of the roads especially in the mountains are a bit narrow.

Thanks - maybe we'll avoid rain somehow! I don't mind the temps - going there to see where my great-grandfather is from. Good to know we can easily get a car if we are feeling brave with those mountainous roads!