A day trip to Bonifacio
The town of Bonifacio is undoubtedly one of the must-sees when on vacation in southern Corsica.
The thousand-year-old city, perched on high limestone cliffs, deserves at least a full day’s exploration. Between the upper town in the citadel, the navy and its port, and the boat trips to the Lavezzi islands, you’ll have more than enough to fill a family day.
Choosing Le Damier campsite in Pianottoli-Caldarello also means choosing a campsite close to Bonifacio, so you can take time to visit this unique town.
It’s the ideal way to enjoy the pleasures of Bonifacio without the daily hassle of the busy tourist resort in summer. By opting for our campsite near Bonifacio, you’re choosing to enjoy the peace and quiet of our estate, while still being able to visit the most incredible town in southern Corsica as often as you like, without any hassle!
Discover the thousand-year-old city
Bonifacio is one of Corsica’s most emblematic towns, and undoubtedly the most visited in Corse-du-Sud.
The thousand-year-old city is extremely spectacular. It has two distinct parts, both of which are a must-see.
The upper town, perched on the limestone cliffs, overlooks the port and marina. On the south side, the houses are built overhanging the sea, more than 100 m high, giving the town a unique character.
Facing Sardinia (just 12 km to the south and permanently visible), the upper town of Bonifacio is well worth a visit for its narrow streets and passageways between houses, churches and old Genoese palaces, as well as for the many small shops and restaurants that add so much charm to the town.
And don’t hesitate to approach the ramparts. On the seaward side, they offer a unique, breathtaking view of the Bouches de Bonifacio.
The harbor side offers a panoramic view of the entire marina.
A stroll around the port of Bonifacio
The lower part of the town lies at the end of a natural fjord, unique in the Mediterranean. Every summer, the marina welcomes the region’s finest yachts.
It’s also on this promenade that you’ll find restaurants serving local fish, the town’s specialities and many other dishes to be enjoyed all day long.It’s also from the marina that sea excursions to the Lavezzi islands are organized. Numerous sea excursion companies offer tours of the caves and cliffs from the sea, or of course a trip to the Lavezzi archipelago, France’s southernmost point. This protected nature reserve is a jewel in Corsica’s natural heritage.
Must-see sites in Bonifacio
When staying at a campsite in Bonifacio, it’s important to take the time to discover the town and the region. If, however, you’re a little short of time or ideas, here are the must-see places to visit during your stay:
- Bonifacio marine cemetery. Located at the end of the upper town, the cemetery can be visited with respect for the site. It is one of Bonifacio’s historic monuments.
- TheRoy d’Aragon staircase, still in the upper town. This staircase leads down the cliff on the seaward side. According to legend, it was cut in 1 night by the men of the King of Aragon to conquer the town.
- Thechurch of Sainte Marie Majeure in the heart of the upper town, to understand the role of this building and the set of arches visible in town, bringing water to the reservoir beneath the church.
- The Bastion de l’étendard, still located in the upper town, at the Genoese gate. The tour takes place inside the fortifications, providing an original insight into the town’s history. Superb panoramic view of the lower town.
- The Lavezzi islands, thanks to the seafaring companies located on the marina. The Lavezzi archipelago is a string of wild, deserted islands protected by a nature reserve.
Things to discover near Bonifacio
Not everything happens in the heart of the city. Don’t hesitate to broaden your range of discoveries:
- Pertusato lighthouse and semaphore.
A superb discovery of Corsica’s southernmost tip via these emblematic buildings.
- Le Golf de Sperone: for lovers of the little white ball, this 18-hole course is considered to be one of the finest available.
- The lagoon of Piantarella and the beaches of Sperone. In the far south, you can discover this sublime lagoon and the fine sandy beaches of Sperone (petit and grand Sperone), which are very popular in summer. The lagoon is also a paradise for windsurfers, paddleboarders and kayakers (rental available on site).
The Gulf of Sant’amanza, with its small beaches and fishermen’s restaurants where you can enjoy the local catch with your feet in the sand.
Campsite close to Bonifacio beaches
Camping Le Damier is located in the commune of Pianottoli-Caldarello, bordering Bonifacio. Less than 15 minutes by car from the thousand-year-old city, the campsite is only 10 minutes from Bonifacio’s first beaches, in the Gulf of Ventilegne, and offers a real seaside holiday in Bonifacio.
For lovers of wild beaches and water sports, the Gulf of Ventilegne and La Tonnara beach will guarantee a successful stay at the Bonifacio campsite without having to deal with all the problems of traffic jams when staying in the center or on the east coast of Bonifacio.
The Gulf of Ventilegne has some nice surprises in store for you, with small sandy beaches on the Testa side, far from the crowds, to enjoy a camping stay by the sea in Bonifacio.
Camping Le Damier lets you choose between the beaches of Pianottoli and Bonifacio, every day, without the constraints of the road. But that’s not all! Our ideally located campsite offers you a wide choice of vacation pleasures, between the most beautiful beaches in Corse-du-Sud, the villages of Figari and Roccapina and a multitude of sites and activities to discover in Pianottoli!
