It is so great to be back in France! The ferry from Sardinia to Corsica takes an hour or so (it is only about 12Km), but wow, wow, wow the arrival into Bonifacio harbour is like entering a pirates hideaway. The entrance is only about 70m wide. This place has to be seen to be believed. The unique setting is surrounded by chalk white limestone cliffs, topped by a 9th century citadel. The old city looks like it is suspended over the sea as the cliffs have been eroded below. Bonifacio is the oldest town in Corsica and happens to be one of the windiest places in France. This explains why there are a number of yacht racing events in progress. The combination of a resort plus medieval town is absolutely stunning. Fun fact - This town lies closer to the capital cities of 20 other countries in Europe and Africa than its own, Paris! They rate this place as one of the most spectacular towns in the Mediterranean. It was mentioned in Homer's Odyssey (it is the lair of the fearsome Laestrygonians). Tonight I walked up to the old town for dinner and had Veau aux olives (Veal with olives). This slow cooked stew, full of flavour with tender veal, olives, tomatoes, onions and herbs from the maquis (see my post from 9th May!) as well as a generous dash of white or rosé wine was served in vol-au-vents - Delicious... I took way to many photos today so a small selection below.
Viva La France
Updated: May 28, 2024
Wow, that veal dish looks fantastic! And Bonifacio looks pretty spectacular. I thought that white thing running diagonally down the cliff was a water gutter to prevent erosion under the buildings but from Apple Maps it looks like it's a staircase! Don't know if I'd feel safe living in one of those overhanging buildings ... is that where your ultra cheap BnB is?