Standing high on white limestone cliffs at Corsica's southernmost point is one of France’s best-kept secrets: Bonifacio. Corsica’s oldest town, the so-called ‘Citadel of Cliffs’ remains largely untroubled by the throngs of holidaymakers who flock to most Mediterranean destinations. From simple B&Bs to hip luxury hotels, there really is something for everyone in this corner of the island. Whether you’re dreaming of strolls along sun-baked cobblestone streets, snoozing on secluded beaches or admiring ancient sites, our pick of the best places to stay in Bonifacio promise the perfect seaside holiday.
Bonifacio sits in the shadow of its medieval Citadel, set atop a narrow promontory overlooking dazzling blue seas. The Bastion de L'Etendard, built to store the town’s artillery, now houses a fascinating museum. Step into the striking Eglise Saint-Marie Majeure, before following the 187 steps of the Escalier du Roi d'Aragon down to the ocean. The narrow path from the Chapel of St-Roch, too, leads to pebbled Sutta Rocca beach and the sea, where you’ll find red starfish in the shallows. Keen divers will be fascinated by pirate shipwrecks, whilst windsurfers and kayakers can glide across the lagoon in front of Piantarella Beach. Lovely L'Arinella Beach, reachable only by clifftop hike or boat, is another favourite.
Return to Bonifacio for feasts of goats-cheese-stuffed clams, aubergines or brocciu — fresh ricotta served with ham and salami — and honey-roasted pork in family-run restaurants. Southern Corsica is a land rich in myths and legends; where better to unravel them than from the best places to stay in Bonifacio?