- Corsica
Bonifacio, Corsica
Just a short hop from Sardinia, at the southernmost tip of Corsica, lies the dramatic fortress town of Bonifacio. Perched high on limestone cliffs above the sparkling Mediterranean, it is one of the island’s most spectacular settings and a popular choice for villa holidays and hotels in southern Corsica.
Why visit Bonifacio?
- To admire its remarkable limestone cliffs
- Head out on a boat trip
- Explore the charming citadel
Bonifacio is a wonderful town to enjoy a day out, and the nearby villages are a great place to base yourself for a Corsican getaway. The town’s marina boasts impressive yachts, and it is a great ‘time-waster’ to people-watch at its side whilst enjoying a coffee or some lunch. Head up to the citadel to enjoy wonderful views of the cliffs and the azure waters below; make sure to note the buildings perched right on the edge of the cliffs! If you are looking for beaches, there are plenty of splendid sandy stretches nearby, such as Plage de le Rondinara and Plage du Sperone.
What to do in Bonifacio
Head out on a boat trip
The limestone cliffs can be explored by boat, head out on a day trip from the marina to see hidden coves and caves.
Enjoy a seafood meal
What better way to enjoy a fresh seafood meal than by the sea! Restaurants line the marina and the place is bustling at lunchtime and evenings.
Beach-hop!
Southern Corsica is known for its wonderful beaches, Bonifacio is a remarkable base to explore them all!
An in-depth guide to Bonifacio
Founded in 833, Bonifacio is a town steeped in history and one of the most extraordinary sights in southern Corsica. Its remote position, dramatic citadel and spectacular setting on Corsica’s only limestone plateau give it a timeless quality.
Perched on a narrow limestone promontory high above the Mediterranean, Bonifacio appears to rise directly from the cliffs. Ancient houses and fortress walls cling to the edge of the rock, sculpted over centuries by wind and sea, while far below, a sheltered natural harbour provides a lively setting for yachts, fishing boats and waterfront restaurants.
Just 12 kilometres from Sardinia, Bonifacio has a distinctly Mediterranean character, with an atmosphere that feels as much Italian as French. Its narrow streets and atmospheric old town are a pleasure to explore, with small shops, cafés and historic churches tucked between the ancient ramparts.
The town is particularly impressive from the water. Boat trips leave regularly from the harbour, taking in the dramatic coastline, sea caves and grottoes beneath the cliffs, as well as the beautiful Lavezzi Islands, a scattering of granite islets surrounded by exceptionally clear water.
An in-depth guide to Bonifacio, continued
Back in town, the cafés and restaurants around the port are ideal for watching the boats come and go. A small aquarium is popular with younger visitors, while the tourist train provides an easy way up to the old town. Those on foot can tackle the famous steps down through the cliffs, where the path leads to a tiny beach and onwards along the clifftop. From the old town, there are wonderful views across the harbour and towards the sea, while the atmospheric marine cemetery is worth a visit for its striking white mausoleums.
The coastline around Bonifacio is equally compelling, with a succession of beautiful sandy bays and crystal-clear waters. Around 10 kilometres from the town, the small hamlet of Santa Manza has a gently shelving, family-friendly beach and is particularly popular for water sports, with the local winds making it a favourite with windsurfers.
Further along the coast, Rondinara is one of the region’s most beautiful beaches. Its almost perfectly formed horseshoe bay curves around fine white sand and remarkably clear turquoise water, backed by fragrant pine trees and protected natural landscapes. It is a spectacular spot for a day beside the sea and a fitting introduction to the wild beauty of Corsica’s southern coast.