Rally Corsica - Profile of locations and areas used on the famous Rally in Ajaccio
Nature and Sport in Ajaccio : Rally Corsica - Profile of locations and areas used on the famous Rally
France’s World Rally Championship was first run on the 17th and 18th of December in 1956 on the island of Corsica. The next year, this event became a part of the National GT Championship. When it was created, the heart of the motor sports authorities were unsure of a name for the venue, ultimately opting for ‘Tour de Corse’.
A part of the World Rally Championship schedule since the 1973 season, the rally was run around the island in its initial stage. It used to be around the city of Ajaccio, usually held on asphalt roads, and commonly known as the “Ten Thousand Turns Rally”, for it rides through the twisty mountain roads. However, since 2008, the rally location has been moved to Alsace region to the east of France as it is the home of multiple World Champion Sebastian Loeb.
The Corsican roads made for a very challenging event. The tight turns, steep climbs and descents along the Corsican mountain passes and the narrow historic villages made the event infamous and much loved by fans and spectators. Now the rally has moved on to a new location, the roads and villages make for a fascinating and fun diversion for motorsport enthusiasts visiting Corsica on holiday or for this reason. Buy a local map or experiment with your GPS navigator to get the best from this beautiful area.
A rally fan might start their tour by leaving the Ajaccio area and heading to Tavera, eventually taking the D129 and D227 which were once one of the famous rally stages! After enjoying the pretty town of Tavera head to Bastelica along the D27 for another famous rally stage with stunning views into Corsica’s mountain ranges. Another ex- rally stage – the D1 heading to Vico, will also amaze you with stunning views across the mountains – just don’t be distracted by them!
Finally, going south from Ajaccio to Verghia, hook onto the D155 passing through the villages of Acqua Doria, Marmontaja and Serra di Ferro leading to the D757 (passing through Favatello and Stiliccione) followed by the D302 to Pisciatello back to the coast for a round trip you will never forget!
Remember – have fun but be careful and obey the law!