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Bonifacio, its cliffs and the natural reserveof the Strait of Bonifacio
At the southern reaches of the beauty island, a remarkable site made of limestone cliffs, giving a sense to the word vertigo. This raw jewel, sculpted by the strength of the sea sprays and the swell, is nested in the natural reserve of the Strait of Bonifacio. Known for its rich environment and heritage, the reserve is spreading over 80 000 hectares between Corsica and Sardinia, which makes it the largest natural reserve of continental France.
With 37% of remarkable species of the mediterranean being sheltered in this geographic area, it is a providential refuge for flora and fauna. Loitering along the cliffs, it is frequent to observe gulls soaring over the turquoise water as a myriad of boats are active, in an incessant ball. This myriad is driving summer visitors at the foot of the limestone giants, facing their sparkling shine, as well as the other sites of interest, the sea caves, the beaches, and Corsica’s rudder.
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The most southlocated point, Capo Pertusato is, with its pirates’ beach, coming straight out of a tale, a place full of magic. From the lighthouse on the heights, that guides the sailors through the narrow crossing, the panoramic view on the strait and Sardinia is breathtaking. At the heart of this unique site, a peninsula is anchored, as a daydream invitation. Known during the Antiquity for its protected and deep enough harbor, Bonifacio has since been transformed : from a small fishermen harbor in the 12th century to an impregnable fortress in the 17th. Strategic high place at the crossroad of merchant trajectories, the Republic of Genoa - that has administrated the city for several centuries - has fortified the city, as it faced attacks, to make it a stronghold. The appearance of the citadel, with its monumental bastions and walls, dates from 1668.
Loitering along the cliffs, it is frequent to observe gulls soaring over the turquoise water as a myriad of boats are active, in an incessant ball.
Rédaction & Photographie : Sébastien Leroy
