Bonifacio
Bonifacio
Dating as far back as 833 the historical town of Bonifacio is located on the southern tip of the Corsica coastline and holidays to Bonifacio offer a vast array of modern amenities to visitors, despite the age of the old town. Situated at the top of a narrow limestone peninsula, the resort attracts visitors with its unique and enchanting setting of pure white cliffs rising up from the crystalline waters of the Bouches de Bonifacio strait, that separates Sardinia, which is just seven miles off the Corsican coastline. The most scenic way to approach Bonifacio is by boat, through the channel, almost a mile long that protects the town's beautiful natural harbour. No wonder that the buzzing marina attracts yachts from all over the world, as well as ferries and passenger boats packed with tourists from Sardinia and elsewhere. Alternatively you can fly in from Marseille or bus from the other Corsican towns. The Italian-flavoured town boasts quaint medieval architecture, offset with the requisite cafes, restaurants and boutiques catering to the tourist trade. The old town and citadel, built in the 12th century by the Genoese conquerors, is reached up a long, steep flight of steps. The citadel has been put to use in modern times as headquarters for the French Foreign Legion, which was based here between 1963 and 1983. There are diversions aplenty in the town and surrounds, ranging from water sports of all sorts to be enjoyed at the nearby Plage de Piantarella, to some splendid golf courses and boat trips to the offshore Archipel des Lavezzi island group.
