Bonifacio

On the southernmost tip of Corsica, you’ll find Bonifacio, a small seaside town with narrow cobbled streets and colorful houses. The town of Bonifacio sits on a rugged cliff overlooking the Lavezzi islands, and its dramatic position is reminiscent of a castle from some fabled world.

The old town is full of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh grilled fish, slow-cooked Veau aux olive (lamb with olives), and the famous Bouillabaisse fish soup.

In the 12th century, the Genoans captured Bonifacio. They massacred its inhabitants, replacing them with Ligurian families who were offered exemptions from tax and customs in Genoan ports as an enticement to live in the town. This is why you’ll find a dialect based on Ligurian Italian still spoken there today.

You can visit the Citadelle de Bonifacio, an impressive fortress founded in 828 and rebuilt by the Genoese from the 12th century, which offers incredible views of its surroundings as well as a glimpse into the rich history of Corsica.

Not to be missed is the King of Aragon’s Stairway, an adventure for young and old hearts alike. The legend goes that it was carved by hand into limestone overnight by the King of Aragon’s troops in 1420. In truth, it was built to access the Saint-Barthélemy well, a freshwater source that is no longer in use and is now closed.

As you descend the 189 irregular steps, you’ll be awestruck by the stunning views of the sea, Sardinia, and the cliffs from a 180-degree angle. At the bottom, you’ll be just a few meters above the sea on a path carved into the cliff, surrounded by turquoise-blue water.

To cool off, head to Plage des Trois Pointes, an impressive beach surrounded by tall limestone cliffs and clear waters perfect for cliff jumping and snorkeling.