I love traveling to a place steeped in history where I can walk to the beach from my hotel, hike along the coast, take a boat ride to a remote deserted island and enjoy fine cuisine, without ever setting foot in a car. Bonifacio, a medieval village built over towering cliffs on the southern tip of Corsica, offers all of that and more.

Our tour of this intriguing place began with a boat trip to the nearby Lavezzi Islands archipelago on the Straits of Bonifacio, the wind-swept waterway that separates southern Corsica from the coast of Sardinia.

The Lavezzi islands enjoy protected status as a natural reserve and are part of an international marine park jointly shared by Italy and France. On these isolated islands, nestled between large rocks, visitors can enjoy fantastic pool-like spots with white sandy beaches.

Returning to the harbor, the boat trip includes a visit to several caves and inlets carved by the sea and accessible only by boat. The most memorable one is the cave of Sdragonatto (little dragon), with a gap on its dome that curiously resembles the shape of Corsica.

After exploring Bonifacio by sea, a steep climb from the harbor via the steps of Montée Rastello leads to a high observation point and one of the most stunning views in the Mediterranean: The island of Sardinia on the horizon, just 12 km (7 miles) to the south, an emerald beach below adorned by the mighty Grain de Sable (Grain of Sand), and the Capo Pertusato lighthouse in the distance.

The Old Town

Continuing up the steps on Montée St-Roch is the entrance to the fortified Haute Ville (upper town) of Bonifacio.

Crossing over the drawbridge, which separated this ancient citadel from the rest of the world until the 19th century, we found ourselves journeying back to the Middle Ages.

Since its founding around the year 828 AD, Bonifacio has been coveted by the republics of Genoa, Pisa and other invaders for its strategic location and naturally protected port.

In the 12th century, the Genoese drove out Bonifacio’s inhabitants and established their own colony, ruling over the island until the 18th century. During this period, Genoa’s power was occasionally interrupted by brief periods of internal revolt and attacks from nearby countries. After a decisive battle in 1769, France finally gained full control of Corsica.

Bonifacio’s old town is ideal for spending several hours wandering through its maze of cobblestone streets, admiring the mixed architecture of its homes and visiting centuries-old churches, small shops and cafes.

Beach and Harbor

Leaving the old town, a winding stairway from Col St. Roch leads to the beach of Sutta-Rocca (under rock), a great spot for bathing and snorkeling. Best of all, this delightful beach is only a 10 minute walk away from the marina.

Bonifacio’s harbor, with its boulevard of sidewalk cafes and candlelit tables, overlooked by a 16th century fortress, is the perfect place to spend the evening. Next to the marina, a few steps from their hotel, visitors will find a variety of restaurants in every price range serving fresh local seafood, pasta dishes, bountiful salads and local specialties.

If you happen to be in Corsica on Bastille Day (July 14), the fireworks display in Bonifacio is an electrifying spectacle you won’t want to miss.

Getting There and Around

There are four airports on the island. Figari airport, the nearest to Bonifacio, is only 16 km (10 miles) away. A taxi ride from Figari to Bonifacio costs about 45€. The next closest airport, located in Ajaccio, is only 140 km (87 miles) from Bonifacio. I usually fly into Ajaccio and then drive to Bonifacio and other parts of the island.

Auto Europe offers great rates on car rentals with numerous locations on all the major towns and airports in Corsica.

Accomodations

Bonifacio offers a variety of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. The Bonifacio Tourist Office, located in the Upper Town, provides assistance and lodging information on everything from campsites to hotels and private villas. (These tourist offices can be found on all the major cities and towns on the island with the same excellent level of service).

Not to Miss

A 50 minute boat trip to the marine caves and inlets around Bonifacio (12€-14€ per person). This is the best way to appreciate the old town with its homes extending out to the sea. Boats from about a dozen different companies leave continually from the harbor. Longer excursions to nearby beaches are also available.

For information on other tours and rates visit:
www.vedettesthalassa.com

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Filed under: Day Trips