Bonifacio (Corsica)
Where’s the entrance? It’s not obvious. I can make out the fortress on top of the precipitous cliff that tower above me. The entrance to the harbour itself is well hidden and reveals itself to be just to the left. Mother nature has gouged a narrow chancel in the sandstone rocks, wide enough to allowing me a safe, yet imposing passage. It makes for a magnificent entrance into a harbour originating in the 9th century when the first citadel was built. It’s not hard to imagine what this was like in Napoleon and Nelson’s time, just a bit smellier! The marina is not large but you’ll find space out of peak season. Shelter is of course good, even if winds can whip through the straits of the same name.
Once rested, do make the hike up to the old fortress town. You’ll pass lots of “tourist traps”, both restaurants and shops. With some effort you can find more traditional eateries and you can always stop for a refreshment on route or time it to have dinner in the old town.
The more energetic can descend the steep steps, below the citadel, carved into the rock face. Worth the effort, even if your fashion statement will be ruined by the health and safety imposed hard hat.
A Dragon's Tale 