BONIFACIO TRAVEL GUIDE- DISCOVER CORSICA’S TOP DESTINATION

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Discover the medieval fortress town of Bonifacio perched dramatically atop white limestone cliffs on the southernmost tip of Corsica.

Founded in 830, the oldest town of the island boasts a striking 9th-century Citadel sheltering a historic Old Town with winding cobbled streets, lively squares, and medieval monuments.

Its elegant modern marina protected by 70 m high rocky walls hugging a fjord-like deep cove exudes a relaxing Mediterranean atmosphere. Lively bars, cafes, and restaurants lining the streets provide beautiful views of the harbour.

Equally mesmerizing coastline scenery around Bonifacio with its famous sea coves and the neighboring Lavezzi Islands, a protected marine park, may be appreciated during a boat excursion offered by numerous companies running trips from the port.

Renowned for its dramatic natural setting paired with innumerable medieval treasures, Bonifacio remains a top Corsican destination offering visitors a truly rewarding and memorable experience.

Read on to find the best things to see and do, top beaches, location, history, and useful travel tips. Inspire your travels!

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EXTRAORDINARY LOCATION OF BONIFACIO

Bonifacio benefits from an idyllic location at the southern tip of Corsica. Separated from Sardinia by the Strait of Bonifacio, a picturesque 12 km wide waterway, this medieval marvel is positioned close to numerous emblematic sites of the island.

Unspoilt coastal areas with secret translucent coves are a stone’s throw away from the rugged landscapes of the Alta Rocca region where enchanting mountain villages overlook jagged granite needles of Bavella.

The region is steeped in history revealing millennia of human activity. Fascinating prehistoric sites showcasing architectural treasures of ancient civilizations dotting the area blend with traditional Corsican culture still present in places such as the charm-oozing medieval town of Sartene.

Southern Corsica is also renowned for an abundance of adventure opportunities that cater to all skills and experience levels. Water sports, hiking, cycling, horse riding, or even golfing- visitors are spoilt for choice with a wealth of outdoor activities set in spectacular unspoilt landscapes.

BRIEF HISTORY OF BONIFACIO

• The earliest evidence of human activity in the area goes back to 6750 BC thanks to the discovery of a skeleton of ‘Dame de Bonifacio’ in a cave near the Capello village.
• Bonifacio is believed to carry the characteristics of the famous land of Laestrygonians- the town of giants described in the Odyssey by Homer.
• The town was founded around 828 by the Count Bonifacio of Tuscany as a defense against notorious pirate raids.
• In 1092 Bonifacio became a part of the Republic of Pisa following a decision of Pope Urbanus II.
• After a dispute with Pisa in 1187, the town fell under the Genoese rule. Following a massacre of the local population over two hundred Ligurian families settled in Bonifacio forming a mini-republic.
• In 1420 Alfonso V, the king of Aragon attacked Bonifacio during a five-month siege aiming to starve the inhabitants by blocking the port with his fleet. Bonifaciens fought using any means possible, even throwing cheeses at the attackers. A boat was built within the Citadel, which, having been lowered down from the cliffs, transported an envoy to Genoa in search of help. The rescue came just in time while the surviving Bonifaciens succeeded in buying time by bluffing the Aragonian fleet they were more numerous.
• In 1554, recovering from an outbreak of plague, the town was attacked by the French forces of Henri II joined by a fleet of Dargut, a Turkish pirate. The siege lasted 18 days while a messenger- a member of the Cattacciolo family- sought help in Genoa. On his return, he was captured by the Turks and forced to carry a forged letter with a refusal of help. Following a surrender, the town fell under French rule.
• Bonifacio returned to the Genoans with the rest of Corsica under the Treaty of Cateau-Cambresis in 1559.
• The prospering town was incorporated into France through the Treaty of Versailles in the late 18^th century.
• Stripped of special privileges and autonomy the flourishing port of Bonifacio continued to decline to finally blossom with the explosion of tourism.

10 BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN BONIFACIO

1. Admire a phenomenal view of dazzling white cliffs with the famous Grain de Sable, a gigantic limestone rock fallen into the emerald water of the Mediterranean, from atop the Montée St-Roch climb.
2. Discover a beautiful Chapelle St-Roch built in 1528 in a place where the last victim of the plague died. Overlooking vertiginous cliffs disappearing into an expanse of crystalline blue waters the petite white monument will make you believe you are on a Greek island.
3. Access the Old Town through the magnificent Porte des Genes, the only entrance to Bonifacio until the 19^th century equipped with a drawbridge in 1598. Just beyond the gate, you will find the highest fortress in France dating back to the 15^th century- Bastion de l’Etendard (2.50 € April- October) enjoying a 360° panorama over Bonifacio from the Jardin des Véstiges.
4. Stroll through narrow cobblestone-lined alleyways and secret passages of the historic Old Town. Rue du Palais- de-Garde is famous for its enclosed arcades connecting Bonifacio’s oldest buildings while at nr 7 of Rue des Deux-Empereurs you will find a house where Napoléon resided in 1793.
5. Visit the oldest building of the Haute Ville- Eglise Ste-Marie-Majeure situated in the center of the Citadel. Dating back to the 12^th century, the church was partially rebuilt by the Genoese. The interior is home to a relic of the True Cross displayed by the citizens during great storms while the relics of Saint Boniface, the town’s patron, are contained in the high altar. Concealing the entrance to the church, the Loggia was the heart of the town during the Genoese rule where under the columned arcades justice was decided by the council. The Old Cistern located under the porch was used to collect rainwater needed in times of siege or during hot summer months via buttresses connecting the church with adjoining buildings.
6. For the most astonishing views climb vertiginous Escalier du Roi d’Aragon (2.50 €), 187 steps carved into the face of a steep cliff. According to a legend the staircase was built overnight by King Aragon’s troops in 1420. Bring plenty of water with you in hot weather as the climb back may be taxing even for the fit.
7. Explore built in 1270 Eglise St-Dominique, the only gothic-style church in Corsica located on the limestone plateau of Bosco.
8. View Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste, the seat of the Brotherhood of Mercy in 1785, Eglise Sainte Croix famous for housing a fragment of the True Cross of Christ and located in the port Eglise Saint-Erasme built in a neo-Byzantine style in the 13^th century, home to the brotherhood of fishermen and seafarers.
9. Discover Cimetière Marin, one of the most beautiful cemeteries of the Mediterranean situated in Bosco. With panoramic views across the sea, this serene site best showcases the charm of its architecture at sunset. Couvent St-Francois adjacent to the graveyard dates back to the 13^th century.
10. Enjoy a boat excursion to sea caves and inlets below the historic Citadel of Bonifacio or choose a day trip to the famous archipelago of the Lavezzi Islands. The crystal-clear turquoise waters of the nature reserve are a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling. Tickets for daily excursions may be purchased at the marina from numerous operators or online.

BOOK YOUR BOAT TRIP

FROM AJACCIO

• Boat trip to Iles Lavezzi and Bonifacio from Ajaccio. Discover the Lavezzi Islands and the nearby clifftop town of Bonifacio on a full-day guided boat trip. Marvel at lagoons, coral reefs, and the caves of the Bouches de Bonifacio reserve. At Plage de Tivella you can enjoy a swimming break before heading back to Ajaccio.
• Boat tour to Bonifacio with a swimming stop at Iles Lavezzi from Ajaccio. Visit Bonifacio, swim in the pristine waters of Iles Lavezzi, sample local wines and meats, and admire magnificent views of southern Corsica. During this full-day trip, you will also stop at the exquisite cove of Roccapina.

FROM BONIFACIO

• Boat trip to the Cliffs of Bonifacio and the Gulf of Sperone from Bonifacio. Admire beautiful coastal landscapes around Bonifacio on a relaxing 1.5-hour-long boat tour departing from the Piantarella beach. Learn about the area’s history, culture, and main landmarks from your on-board tour guide.
• Boat trip in the Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve from Bonifacio. Explore the Bonifacio National Park on a speedboat tour to some of the most scenic corners of Corsica. Soak up views of the Genoese tower of Capicciolu, the Lavezzi Archipelago with its stunning beaches, and the Bay of Fazzio. Go for a dip in crystal-clear waters and discover the marine life.

FROM PORTO VECCHIO

• Lavezzi Archipelago sightseeing cruise from Porto Vecchio. Discover the beauty of the Lavezzi Archipelago and Iles Cerbicales on a sightseeing cruise from Porto-Vecchio. Enjoy birdwatching beside the rocks and swim in crystal waters. The trip takes 4 hours and snorkeling gear is provided.

10 BEST BEACHES IN BONIFACIO

• Two small coves– Plage de l’Arinella and Plage de la Catena located opposite the north side of the Citadel are accessible only on foot (the walk starts next to the camping l’Araguina) or by boat.
• 8 km east of Bonifacio on the southernmost tip of Corsica, three magnificent beaches attract visitors with their turquoise-coloured water and powder white sand. The Piantarella lagoon is perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddling, and other water activities, the small coves of Petit Sperone and Plage du Grand Sperone located further south and accessible via a coastal piste offer tranquillity and relaxation. To get there take D58 and D260, park your car at the end of the road. The walk to the furthest cove takes around 15 min.
• Plage de Cala Longa located south of the Gulf of Sant’Amanza is accessible from Bonifacio via D58 and then D258. Parking along the roadside is limited thus the beach remains relatively quiet in the busy summer months.
• Situated in the Gulf of Sant’Amanza, the 800-m-long Plage de Maora is a well-known surfing spot. The beach is easily reached via D60 and offers numerous restaurant services and water sports activities.
• Among the wildest beaches around Bonifacio is Plage de Balistra. Reached by a neglected dirt road, north of the Golfe de Sant’Amanza, the cove is popular among kite and windsurfers.
• Beautiful Plage de la Tonnara is located 15 minutes northwest of Bonifacio on T40. Wild and windswept, the beach offers translucent waters, free parking, and restaurant services. It remains quiet even in high season.

10 BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO AROUND BONIFACIO

1. Enjoy an unforgettable scenic walk to Capo Pertusato with its Phare du Pertusato where at the Saint-Antoine beach you may enjoy a refreshing dip in translucent waters.
2. Experience a relaxing day at the 18-hole circuit of the Golf de Sperone, a Mediterranean oasis considered one of the most beautiful courses in the world.
3. Explore the celebrity-frequented coastal resort of Porto Vecchio with its stunning Citadel and chic marina.
4. Visit l’Ermitage de la Trinité, a peaceful ancient monastery sat on eroded granite rock benefiting from panoramic views of Bonifacio.
5. Take a refreshing dip in the crystalline river waters at the wild swimming site of Cavu.
6. Discover some of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches including the iconic Plage de Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, Rondinara, or the idyllic Roccapina.
7. Indulge in the medieval atmosphere of charming narrow streets in the historic town of Sartene.
8. Explore the mysteries of Filitosa, one of the most celebrated megalithic sites in the Mediterranean.
9. Admire Corsica’s emblematic mountainous landscapes during the famous scenic drive Porto Vecchio- Bavella- Solenzara where tall granite pinnacles soar over fragrant Laricio pine forests.
10. Enjoy the scenic Trou de la Bombe hike in Massif de Bavella for awe-inspiring views of the rocky spears.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• The ferry port of Bonifacio connects Corsica with Santa Teresa di Gallura in Sardinia. The 12 km long crossing is operated by Blue Navy and Moby Lines all year round and takes around 50 min.
• The Figari airport served by various European carriers is located 17 km north of Bonifacio. A navette service runs between Figari and Porto-Vecchio where you may find a bus connection to Bonifacio. The journey takes around 2 hours. The quickest way (20 min) to get to Bonifacio from the airport is by taxi.
• Eurocorse buses operating several routes including Bonifacio-Ajaccio and Bonifacio-Porto- Vecchio stop in the marina next to the Petit Train station. In July and August, a coach company provides a beach shuttle to some of the most beautiful beaches of southern Corsica including Sperone and Piantarella. For more information check www.corsicabus.org.
• You may reach the historic Citadel from the marina with the Petit Train shuttle service departing every half an hour.
• Detailed information on Bonifacio’s main attractions may be acquired at the local tourist office situated at Rue Fred-Scamaroni www.bonifacio.com.
• The post office of Bonifacio is located at Rue Saint-Dominique in the Old Town.
• Numerous parking areas are available for visitors within the Citadel (P3, P5), in the marina (P1, P2), and outside of the city (Valli and Monte Leone). Parking is free of charge for the first 10 min.

HELPFUL TRAVEL RESOURCES :

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