The Ultimate Guide to Bonifacio, Corsica

France

28 Feb

Written By Tasha @TashaLeaRussell

The most beautiful port in Europe. Well, that’s my opinion anyway!

Bonifacio is the Corsican town you’ve never heard of.

Hidden gem? This is a hidden diamond

Located at the very bottom of Corsica, a stones throw from Sardinia. Bonifacio has one of the most unique ports I’ve ever seen. It’s dramatic cliffs either side of you as you come out of port are stunning and a dream before you’ve seen anything else. Once out in the open seas you’ll turn back to see old town perched on top of the cliffs.

Getting here

You can fly to Figari - Sud Corse which is only 20 minutes to Bonifacio. Alternatively, you can also fly into Ajaccio in the North of the island. This is a great place to fly into if you are road - tripping around the island as it’s usually cheaper than Figari.

There are buses that run from Figari to Bonifacio. Just check before you travel as they may not run on French bank holidays as well as limited services in low season, Sundays and evenings.

As I said above, Bonifacio is Corsica’s St Tropez. The prices are high here but so worth it. Watch the superyachts dock whilst sipping rosè at one of the many port side cafès. If your lucky, watch the mega yachts turn 180 degrees in the middle of this little port to dock. It’s quite the view!

The Old Town

The old town of Bonifacio is the oldest in Corsica. Founded in 830, this medieval town is perched on top of limestone cliffs. This stunning vista (best seen by sea!) is a wonder and will take your breath away.

Made up of a maze of cobbled streets, picturesque squares and medieval facades. Not for the faint hearted, it’s has hundreds of stairs which is not great for anyone who needs accessibility. I’d suggest bringing a baby sling if you have a little ones and leave the bikes & scooters at home for the bigger ones.

There are plenty of sites to see along the way including

Place du Vieux Marché
Place d'Armes
Church of Saint-Dominique
Church of Sainte-Marie-Majeure (the oldest building in Bonifacio)

The King of Aragon Stairway

One of the most, if not the most famous part of Bonifacio is ‘The King of Aragon Stairway’.

Made up of 187 step cut into the side of the limestone cliffs, it was originally constructed to make access to the sea from the old town.

This isn’t for the faint hearted! The steps are carved into the stone and are very steep. Not great for the vertigo - BUT so worth it! This really is a unique experience and one I highly recommend.

~ there is a is a small charge to access the steps

Boat Trips

Do not leave Bonifacio without doing a boat trip! Honestly, my number one tip!

There are so many beautiful vistas in Bonifacio but without a doubt, the view coming in (or out!) of port is spectacular. I still remember the first time I did it whilst working on a superyacht and it still gives me goosebumps to this day.

When onboard, you will start to travel out of port to the open waters. Along the way you will travel along a canal of stunning cliffs boarding the turquoise waters.

Once out at sea you will be be taken back by the view of the old town perched on top of the cliffs. I can’t think of many places I have seen with a port (or old town!) like this…and I’ve seen a lot!

~ I highly recommend a boat tour which includes exploring the caves. It’s a really cool experience. You stop off to snorkel, discover hidden beaches and more. I’ve added a few guides I recommend below.

Cavallo & Lavezzi Islands

Cavallo

Just a short boat trip away from Bonifacio, this small island is like something you would see in a far away tropical land. This might just be the most secluded place in France?

There are small coves, crystal clear beaches and luxury villas dotted around the island. Take in the quietness and seclusion. There really isn’t anywhere like this in Europe!

A secluded playground for the rich and famous, here you can hike, take a bike ride or kayak.

~ Please note, you have to have permission to anchor or dock in Cavallo. There are companies in Bonifacio who have this permission but apart from that, you will need a permit if you hire your own boat.

Sardinia ~ Santa Teresa di Gallura

Why holiday in one country when you can visit two!

Due to its location at the bottom of Corsica, Bonifacio is accessible to Santa Teresa di Gallura in Corsica by ferry. Great for a day trip or even part of a road trip? Ferry’s are easy and will get you there in only 50 minutes!

Tickets are around 30€ return pp

Things to do in Santa Teresa Di Gallura

Enjoy Italian food in the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele
Relax on Rena Bianca (‘white sand’) Beach
Visit Longosardo Tower
Musica sulle Bocche – International jazz festival 31 August – 3 Sepember

Porto Vecchio Day Trip

If you fancy a day trip that doesn’t involve a boat then look no further thank Porto - Vecchio. When you arrive in Porto Vecchio, take a stroll down to the port and stop for a cafe au lait. After coffee, head up to the old town and wander the historic streets filled with restaurants (some with fantastic views of the bay), boutiques and souvenir shops.

Porto Vecchio is famous for its beaches especially Palombaggia and Santa Giulia. Do a little beach hopping and you’ll see why!

Bonifacio Beaches

The beaches in Bonifacio will rival any you’ve seen in the Caribbean or Seychelles. From the crystal clear waters, white sand, bordering the granite boulders.