Camping in Bonifacio

The campsites of Bonifacio are picturesquely nestled at the southern tip of the French island of Corsica. As soon as they get up, holidaymakers camping by the sea can look out over the crystal-clear water from the cliffs. The mild morning hours can be used for a hike, a bike tour or a visit to the historic old town. In the afternoon, head to the golden beaches of Piantarella, where naturist campers can also enjoy the sun without clothing.

Special features of camping in Bonifacio

The campsites in Bonifacio are located either near the rocky coast and offer a panoramic view of the Mediterranean, in the hinterland or near the sandy beaches. There is something to suit every taste, not only in terms of location, but also in terms of facilities. From simple sites to campsites with pools and wellness facilities, every wish is fulfilled. Popular destinations include Pertamina Village U Farniente, Camping Rondinara, Camping Araguina and Camping Campo Di Liccia. They not only impress with their unique location in southern Corsica, but also with idyllic pitches with electricity and sufficient privacy. Travellers without their own vehicle opt for the rental accommodation to spend an enjoyable camping holiday.

If holidaymakers are planning to bring their four-legged friends with them, they should let us know in advance. Some campsites allow you to bring your pet along without any problems. During the holidays, programmes are sometimes offered for children so that parents can relax in peace. Self-catering is guaranteed on all campsites, as there is either a shop on site or shops nearby.

How to get there

Although the campsites in Bonifacio are located on an island, they are easy to reach by car or motorhome. Various ferry crossings are available from the European mainland. The shortest and usually cheapest route is from Livorno to Bastia. However, there is also a harbour in Genoa, which is much closer to Germany, Austria and Switzerland. From there, ships sail regularly to Bastia, Ile-Rousse and Calvi in the north of Corsica.

Top 5 sights

• King's Staircase: The Escalier du Roi d'Aragon is a very steep staircase carved into the chalk cliff on which the town is perched and leads to the church.
• Church of St Dominic: The church is one of the island's Gothic-style buildings. The octagonal tower is particularly impressive.
• Marine cemetery: To the west of the town is the old cemetery, the Cimetière marin de Saint-François, with a large number of graves and mausoleums.
• Dragon's Cave: The Grotte du Sdragonato is an impressive cave on the cliffs that can be visited on a boat trip.
• Citadel: The medieval fortress characterises the upper town.

Top 2 insider tips

• Coral jewellery: If you are looking for a souvenir or a holiday souvenir, you should look around Bonifacio for the famous coral jewellery of Corsica. Beautiful necklaces, bracelets and earrings can be found in the shop La Taillerie du Corail at 15 montée, Rastello, along with lots of decorative items.
• Rondinara beach: The Plage de Rondinara is a dreamy beach with light-coloured sand by the turquoise blue sea. It is located around 22 kilometres from Bonifacio on the way to Porto-Vecchio. Although it is an insider tip, there is a chic beach bar with snacks and cool drinks.

Activities and excursions

Bonifacio is a breathtaking coastal town on Corsica and offers plenty of things to do. Holidaymakers can burn off energy with activities such as water sports, horse riding, hiking, cycling and golf or visit the historical sights and original villages.

Numerous peaks invite you to go hiking

On the French island of Corsica, a total of over 50 peaks are higher than 2,000 metres. This makes the island perfect for mountain fans. Whether on foot or by bike, the charming landscape is waiting to be discovered. A beautiful trekking tour of around 5 kilometres from Bonifacio leads to the southernmost point of Corsica. At Capo Pertusato, visitors are amazed by the almost 100 metre high, steeply sloping chalk cliffs and the lighthouse.

Exploring by canoe

The breathtaking coastline around Bonifacio in southern Corsica is characterised by steep cliffs, grottos and paradisiacal beaches. Holidaymakers can hire canoes and kayaks and conquer the seashore and numerous rivers and lakes using their own muscle power. The rivers often have steep drops, which is why professionals can really let off steam there. If you fancy it, you can also pack your fishing gear and try your luck. Fishing in the sea is permitted without a special licence.

events

March - April

• Easter procession: The Fêtes de pâques procession des cinq confréries takes place in Bonifacio during the Easter period. The five confraternities parade through the town with relics and sculptures on wooden frames. Each group chooses a different route. Church hymns are sung and some pagan rituals are performed. At the end of the procession, all five processions meet in the parish church of Bonifacio. There they are given a blessing and the badge of honour of the relic of the Holy Cross.

July

• Festival of Lights: At the Festi Lumi, ten of the most impressive sights in the Upper Town are bathed in artistic light. The installation amazes visitors, who can admire the play of colours on a walk until midnight.

September

• Nativity of the Virgin Mary: The Fête de la nativité de la vierge is a religious holiday dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It kicks off with two masses in the morning and mid-morning. At lunchtime, the speciality Aubergines à la Bonifacienne, stuffed aubergines with a hearty tomato sauce, is sold to guests. In the evening, there is another mass and a solemn procession.

Gastronomy

The long tradition of agriculture promises original ingredients from regional production. Fresh fish, seafood and pork, game, veal and lamb are often used in the preparation of delicious dishes. The cheeses made from cow's, goat's and sheep's milk are very flavourful. They are served with sweet fig jam. Vegetarians like to order dishes such as zuppa corsa, a flavoursome vegetable soup with potatoes or pasta.

Chestnuts are a speciality of the island. They are used in a variety of ways and are either eaten boiled in salted water as a side dish or made into flour. The slightly sweet ingredient is often used to make cakes, pastries and ice cream. Even chestnut beer has become a popular drink in Corsica.

Best time to visit

The climate in Bonifacio in southern Corsica is Mediterranean. In winter, temperatures are mild at around 10 degrees Celsius in January and February. In spring, the thermometer rises to 19 degrees Celsius in April. From May onwards, the 20 degree mark is usually exceeded. As there is more rainfall in winter, holidaymakers can enjoy lush greenery on hikes in May and April.

The island has bathing weather from June at the latest. Then it is up to 27 degrees Celsius in the air and 19 degrees Celsius in the sea. With 11 hours of sunshine a day and temperatures of up to 30 degrees Celsius, July guarantees perfect beach conditions. The autumn months draw on the great summer weather and offer warm weather with temperatures of over 20 degrees Celsius right into October.