Dream of Corsica

The hour was early and the chill in the air at 4:00 a.m. reminded us that it was only March and winter was still present. We met at the Bolzano Airport for a flight on a 4 person plane, a plane that was so small an extra bag at the back made the plane tip back! The three of us, traveling to check the possible location for Oberalp’s company trip, at first sat silently and just contemplated the Dolomites around us from the unique perspective of a small plane. I was a "foreigner" at the time, after only recently arriving in South Tyrol, the beauty of the Dolomites was overwhelming. Hardly did I know that in 3 hours we would be landing in a different paradise, Corsica’s North coast.

The chosen place for Oberalp’s company trip was a serene spot. The mix of traditional and French culture can be seen everywhere, from the architecture to the food. The extensive coast is home to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches, which we shared with livestock. The cows and wild pigs living in that paradise might be some of the most lucky animals on the planet! We were set to camp near Sallecia beach, with some planned activities (climbing, hiking, stand-up paddle, beach volley, etc.), local food and drinks, and total liberty for everyone to find his or her perfect relaxation and entertainement.

The beginning of this adventure was peaceful and introspective. While preparing for the arrival of 250 colleagues, (arriving at different times) each for a length of 5 days, we (the organisation team) knew that the party was about to start. Setting up Salewa’s base camp was no easy task! Three people assembled 60+ tents in one day and had the beer ready to go for everyone's arrival.

The peace and quiet quickly diminished and the party atmosphere took over. Colleagues arrived by busses and ferries then had to hike to Sallecia. The long travel day was the price everyone had to pay for a private paradise. Within a few hours and a few drinks, participants from different offices, origins and functions started to bond more than we could had expected. This summer-camp-flashback concept was really a hit: chill or exercise during the day, party at night, socializing throughout.

For me,  the highlight of these dream-like days was forming totally new connections around some of my favorite activities. It is true that some sports such as climbing, surfing and slackline have their “tribes” and attract specific profiles, which we get used to in time. However, in Corsica many colleagues could discover these activities or practice with people from other backgrounds. The exchanges within these casual groups was absolutely fantastic because of their diversity and open mindness. 

In contrast to the various activities and relaxations during the day, the evenings saw the groups gather around good food and wine. After dinner participants would gradually make their way to the bonfire to listen to some acoustic guitar, dance and tell stories. The evenings of this trip made us realize that all you really need is good company and nature to have a good time.

The Corsica trip had a longlasting impression on me, it granted me time of long overdue serenity. Over the last few years I have been wandering left and right on the hunt for a home in the mountains, and because of the experience I had in Corsica it made me realize that I was actually looking for a family. With Oberalp, I found not only a new home in the Dolomites, but I can happily say that I’ve been adopted by an amazing family. Thank you to Stephanie Völser, who recruited me for this job and allowing me help organize the trip. Thank you to all the Oberalp colleagues who shaped this amazing experience, and to the Corsica friends who worked hard to make this happen (Bruno, Laura, Nico, Ricky, Sarah, etc.).