We’re all familiar with Corsica and its incredible landscapes, beautiful towns and villages and dream beaches. If you’re looking for a change from the classic discovering holidays, chartering a luxury yacht charter in Bonifacio could be an excellent way of seeing Corsica in a different, more relaxed way.
When is the best time to visit Bonifacio?
At the southernmost tip of the island, Bonifacio has everything to offer visitors. Its climate is very pleasant all year round. If you want to spend some time lying in the sun, the summer season is obviously the best time. But spring and autumn are also excellent times to discover southern Corsica. From May to October, the temperature rises above 20°C (almost 30°C in August).
Winter can also be a good alternative for those who want to discover the city as if they were alone in the world. The temperature then hovers around 14°C. As for rainfall, it is heaviest from September until December.
It’s also worth noting that Bonifacio is the windiest town in Corsica. There are around 320 windy days a year. And it often exceeds 30 knots (mainly in summer). Between seasons, the easterly wind reigns supreme. Mostly at night. If you don’t like being tossed about by the waves, you’d be better off in the calmer winter months.
What are the main cruising areas?
Once you’ve collected your boat from a Bonifacio yacht charter company, you can choose to stay put and enjoy the local attractions, or take a few beautiful cruises around the area.
The number one destination is undoubtedly the Lavezzi Islands. These 7 islands and islets are a place apart, totally deserted (except for the main one, Cavallo) and fascinating. Note that anchoring there is regulated.
The Bouches de Bonifacio are another popular cruising destination. Located between the city and Sardinia, they offer a unique panorama. It should be noted, however, that the weather can sometimes be difficult between the two coasts.
There are also some incredible anchorages around the Bouches, including the Paraganu cove, the Fazio cove and the gulf of Ventilègnu. The bay of Pianotolli and Santamanza are also worth exploring for their unique scenery. The great white cliffs of Santamanza will dazzle you.
You can also travel further afield to Italy or Spain from southern Corsica.
Here’s what not to miss in Bonifacio!
Rent a yacht Bonifacio also allows you to discover the wonders on land. Several are simply unmissable, such as Saint-Roch, which you can explore after visiting the charming marina. From here, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the city and the sea.
A stroll up the Escalier du Roy d’Aragon is also well worth your while. This is a 189-step walkway that follows the coastline, offering sublime views. You can complete your discovering by taking various coastal paths (such as Pertusato or Campu Rumanilu). You’ll be able to overlook the cliffs and the Mediterranean and discover some rare scenery.
And don’t miss the medieval town. It’s a magical place that’s sure to delight. The marine cemetery, the Hermitage of the Trinity and the church of Sainte-Marie majeure, where you can learn more about the Bonifacian brotherhoods, are not to be missed.
There are also numerous beaches and coves, including Fazzio beach, Saint-Antoine beach and the astonishing Plage des 3 Pointes.
Where are the best places to eat and drink?
Once you’ve explored the area’s riches, you may want to quench your thirst or grab a bite to eat.
Le B’52 is a well-known venue located in the port. Here you can enjoy fine wines and gourmet tapas during the day. At night, it transforms into a chic nightclub. International DJs regularly perform here. If beer is your guilty pleasure, you won’t want to miss the Strada di a Biera. Here you’ll find over 50 different beers to sample in a setting reminiscent of ancient cellars.
To satisfy your hunger, Bonifacio has a large number of restaurants. You can sit down to a meal with Jean-Paul Bartoli, a renowned chef. His cuisine is based on local fish and offers delicate flavours.
Leave the heart of the city and head for the very exclusive A Cheda. Sit by the pool and enjoy gourmet menus. Discover saffron champagne, an incredible flavour!
Would you like to discover Corsican flavours in a top-of-the-range setting? The Stella d’Oro is for you.
What you must eat
It’s impossible to think of Corsican gastronomy without thinking of the divine charcuterie with its unique flavours. Figatellu, Prizutti and Lonzu are just a few examples of what you can try.
The town’s signature dish is undoubtedly lobster in Bonifacian sauce, a delicate dish with a hint of mustard.
Sugar lovers will love the famous Ügha Sécaïa (or Bread of the Dead), a very tasty raisin cake from Genoa. And don’t miss the famous Fiadone, or the world-famous thin-skinned clementines.
Local culture
Bonifacio has been awarded the Ville d’Art et d’Histoire (Town of Art and History) label for its many monuments. But that’s not all there is to culture, as you can discover on your strolls through the town.
You can see some superb jewellery made from coral. Red coral is found in abundance off the coast of the city, and fishermen go in search of it to create unique designs. Local culture can also be seen in other creations, such as chestnut furniture, driftwood sculptures and jumpers made from Corsican ewe’s wool.
Processions are also an important part of the culture. We have already mentioned the brotherhoods. There are now 5 of them, the oldest of which dates back to the 12th century. These brotherhoods are not just a spectacle during the Easter festivities. Far from it! They are major players in Bonifacian life.
The best beach
Bonifacio is home to so many beaches that it’s hard to choose. If you only have one beach to discover, Saint-Antoine is an excellent choice.
The scenery here is sublime. You can bask in the clear, fine sand. It’s also here that you can discover the sumptuous Grotte de l’Orca, take a photo of the astonishing rock in the shape of a shipwreck and meditate against the backdrop of the sea and the citadel of Bonifacio.
Arthaud Yachting’s recommendations
Exploring Corsica and its south by boat is a totally different adventure. The dreamy landscapes that unfold as you discover them, the incredible sites where you can anchor and, of course, the riches of the town of Bonifacio will dazzle you.
Arthaud Yachting allows you to select the perfect boat for you. And that’s the hard part! We take care of everything, whether you know how to sail or not, whether you want to book parties or a table at the restaurant. You can hire a yacht for your holidays, or for a special business event.
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