Bonifacio

The narrow, winding streets that tether the Citadel of Bonifacio together are a pleasing reminder of Medieval engineering and architecture that culminates in the surprisingly efficient and practical design of the fortress. At the entrance to the Genoese inspired walled town lies the imposing Bastion de l’Étendard, protruding from the cliff face to visibly demonstrate the military capabilities of the fortified stronghold which had in the past been the muster point for troops protecting the city. Scale the steep staircase from the Marina, cross the drawbridge of the Porte de Gênes and pass through the adjoining museum to get a sense of what life was like on the cliffs of Corsica hundreds of years ago.

The so called 'Staircase of the King of Aragon' is not for the faint-hearted! Legend has it these stairs on the cliff were created in just one night to allow the king of Aragon to escape from the siege of the city. The vertiginous view over the sea and the city is breathtaking but be careful, you will need the courage of a knight to climb them.

Surrounded by waters as clear as the Caribbean's, in a fishy haven just off the coast of Corsica, the Îles Lavezzi offer intrepid travellers a world of uncharted marvels. This granite straight separating Corsica from Sardinia was the cause of the famous wreckage of Semillante, a French frigate that crashed into the dense reef in 1855. Make sure to bring essentials like water, food, and parasols as there are no shops on the islands. To get there, either rent a private boat or take the ferry from the port of Bonifacio.

On the south-east coast of the Lavezzi Islands, a short boat ride from Bonifacio lies Merouville, or as its known in scuba diving circles, Grouper city. Here you can dive surrounded by shoals of the friendly fish whilst floating past red gorgonians and other bioluminescent underwater fauna. Several companies rent out boats and organise tours from Bonifacio harbour.

This modest church next to the harbour is dedicated to Saint Erasme, the patron saint of seamen. A few commemorative benches, decorative offerings in the form of fishing boats and a spirit of quietness and contemplation make it worth a visit.

Beside the much loved Petit Sperone beach lie the enchanting ruins of Piantarella which served as the beginning and end of the only road built by the Romans in Corsica during the Roman Empire. This huge villa comprises stables, offices, workshops, salt warehouses, a private port, apartments and even a dry dock to repair boats. Despite being located on privately owned land, visitors can see them clearly from the outside and enjoy the stunning landscape surrounding it.

For adventurous hikers unafraid of heights, a journey to the Pertusato Lighthouse is a thrill. A scenic two hour trek from Bonifacio leads amblers up to a cliff overlooking some breathtaking views and down to a secluded beach, so make sure to bring your swimmers. The lighthouse itself is closed but the surrounding areas covered in bright limestone make it well worth the walk.

Nestled on a quaint side street beside the Citadelle of Bonifacio, the main church of the city might be discreet but it is certainly worth a visit. The altar, columns, and rose stained glass windows of the Eglise Sainte Marie Majeure are just some of the spectacular Roman Catholic designs on show. This architectural gem is recognised as a Historic Monument, its origins dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Come during Easter to join in with all the eccentric easter festivities and processions.

Considered one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world, Le Golf de Sperone comprises 75 hectares of lush greenery on a cliff beside the turquoise Mediterranean Sea. This eighteen-hole golf course attracts golfers from across the globe not only for its beauty, but also for the demanding challenge it presents, especially at hole 16 where golfers must start by driving the ball over the sea to a cliff on the other side. Get some hot tips from pro Marc Aurele Simonpietri who expertly guides players through the course.

Paraguan Beach, protected from the winds and the turbulent Strait of Bonifacio serves as a tranquil refuge for aquatic flora and fauna thanks to protective measures taken by the environmental agency. Making the journey to this petite beach on foot is a rewarding adventure, just be aware of jellyfish during the summer months as they are often found washed up on the shore.

Perched atop the Bosco plateau, just a stone's throw away from the Saint François Church and overlooking the Mediterranean sea, this cemetery dating back to 1823 enjoys some of the best views on the island. The captivating scenery of the Cimetière Marin make it a favourite amongst photographers, especially during breathtaking sunsets when the pink granite really comes to life. Impressive family tombs and individual crypts carved out of the limestone terrain make this a very special, if sombre experience.