I’ve got 15 days off in June and I’m pretty undecided about where to go for a motorcycle road trip. Two strong desires are pulling me in different directions: Corsica or Norway.
Corsica has been a dream of mine for a long time: legendary roads, stunning landscapes, a unique vibe, and the perfect mix of sea and mountains. At the same time, I’m wondering if 2 weeks might be *too much* for Corsica—risking feeling like I’ve seen it all too quickly, especially on a bike.
Since I also have an extra week free in May, I could use that specifically for Corsica. Maybe splitting it into two trips would make more sense? If so, which routes or regions would be the most interesting to plan for a 7-day trip?
On the other hand, Norway is *super* appealing. The landscapes look incredible, totally different from anything I’ve experienced, and it’d be a real “wow” trip. I know 15 days is still short for such a vast country. Getting all the way to the North Cape seems pretty much impossible in that time, but I’m curious about what realistic routes could be planned.
So I’m wondering:
Is it better to save Norway for next year, take 3 weeks off, and do it *properly*?
Or are 15 days enough for a first amazing taste of the country?
I’d love to hear about your experiences—whether it’s Corsica (ideal duration, routes) or Norway (what’s realistic in 2 weeks on a bike).
Thanks in advance for your thoughts!
From Lacanau Océan to Névache, July 4–13, 2024.
Stopping at roadside markers and signs in towns, on trails. I left home in Corsica, took the boat from L'Ile-Rousse to Sète, then headed up to Lacanau-Océan for the start of the 45th parallel. Destination: north of Briançon, Plampinet (Névache municipality). For more info and photos, check out my FB page "45th Parallel".
I did it solo, on a 125cc scooter, a Honda Forza with no mechanical mods. Under-seat storage, a top case, a bag strapped to the rear seat with bungees, and two side bags that gave out in the first few days due to poor quality.
Used a GPS, smartphone apps like the famous "68°", "my exact location", and "Ventusky" for weather. Plus paper road maps and a travel journal. Various accommodations (camping, B&Bs, a yurt, and staying with friends).
In total:
2,700 km total, including 1,800 km from Lacanau to Névache via small, lost-but-so-pleasant backroads. Crappy weather from Sète to Lacanau, then nice conditions.
Estimated fuel consumption: 3 liters per 100 km. No mechanical issues—neither with the scooter nor myself.
One regret: I didn’t take enough time to meet people.
For info...: At nearly 77, I still feel the need to do things differently—like the GTA (Grande Traversée des Alpes 😠, the climb to the metallic globe at Nordkapp, Norway (which I did by sea)😠, the trip to southern Portugal😠, etc. On top of that, after an accident and two major knee surgeries, I can’t hike, bike, trek in the desert, or even walk 1 km on sand. That’s also why I can’t ride a motorcycle with bent legs…
* Feel free to share your thoughts or ask for more details.
