Bonifacio (Bonifaziu in Corsica) is located at the southern tip of Corsica, directly facing Sardinia. There are only 12 kilometers between the two islands, and the town of Santa Teresa in Sardinia is easily accessible from Bonifacio by boat (one hour trip). Bonifacio is the most southern place in metropolitan France. The town is built on top of the beautiful white cliffs that make this city a famous touristy spot. Bonifacio is a very pleasant town with lots of shops open until very late, restaurants and bars, many of which enjoy a breathtaking view over the sea to Sardinia. The spectacle of the illuminated cliffs facing the lights of the Sardinian coast is also wonderful at night.
Short history
Bonifacio has a tormented history like the rest of Corsica. Its darkest period was the plague which killed a large part of the population in the 16th century. Its citadel was founded by the Duke Boniface of Tuscany, hence the name of the city. The republics of Genoa and Pisa then fought for a long time over its possession. The fortress now surrounds the old town on top of the cliff.
The white cliffs of Bonifacio are made of chalk-white limestone, and have been shaped by the sea. You can take a boat to visit the numerous caves that the sea has sculpted into the cliffs. The sunlight in Bonifacio is intense thanks to the white color of the surroundings.
The area of Bonifacio is extremely popular with the jet setting kind of tourists; many French VIPs possess a summer house, so keep your eyes open. It is surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches of the island, especially in the gulfs of Sperone and Sant’Amanza, not to mention the gorgeous beach of Rondinara bay. The area also includes the Lavezzi islands between Corsica and Sardinia, and the marine area is protected by a natural park.
Bonifacio shares an international airport with Porto-Vecchio, the Figari airport.
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