Shopping

If you wish to buy a souvenir or a gift for a loved one, the Island of Corsica offers multiple choices to meet everyone’s tastes. For your convenience, the Grand hotel Miramar has gathered some ideas…

Wines
Winemaking in Corsica is a serious business dating as far back as the Roman Empire. In recent years, the quality has much improved and you may decide to buy a few bottles from the region of Sartene which has an excellent reputation.

Cheeses
Cheese making along with the production of cold cuts are part of the Corsican culture. These delicacies can be found in every home, always ready to be served to a visiting friend. The "real" Corsican cheese has a very strong taste and is a perfect reflection of the character of the island. But the ones in the grocery store have a much softer but delicious taste - the local goat cheese has no equal.

Cold Cuts
The flavors of cold cuts have been naturally enhanced as the native boars are free-range and feed on the local vegetation. Corsican "charcuterie" is well respected in France and Italy. Tasting the Coppa, Lonzu, Salsiccia, Prizuttu and Figatelli is a "must" during your stay.

Liquors
Several after dinner drinks are distilled on the island and reflect all the aromas of the maquis, such as the liquor of Myrthe made from a local berry. For the beer enthusiasts, Corsica is the perfect location to sample a beer fermented with chestnuts called Pietra.

Preserves
Made from local products in a very traditional way, there are some interesting preserves prepared with figs, chestnuts, mandarin-oranges that will pique the curiosity of your friends back home. Honey production is also very prominent in this area and the aficionados will appreciate its special flavor. You should also leave a room in your suitcase for some of the island cookies such as the Canistrellis, which are perfect to accompany coffee.

Olive Oil and Herbs
Olive oil production in Corsica is a tradition and practice that goes back in time. The small and dark variety of olive produces an excellent virgin and extra virgin liquid that will add a nice flavor to your salads.
Corsican herbs can be found everywhere. Check the label and buy the ones that are manually picked up in the Valinco valley. They will add a great taste to your grilled meat -or fish- and will remind you of the aromas of the Maquis. Once you have tasted them, you will never barbecue without them!

Crafts
Many artisans on the island produce works of quality. Among the most prized items are Corsican knives, pottery and woodcarving. The best way to make your selection is to visit the traditional fairs held in several villages nearby. The hotel can suggest some reputable merchants.