Winter travelling to Bonifacio in 5 questions and answers

 Earlier this week, I travelled to Bonifacio (and Corsica) for the second time. It was again in winter and it was again from Sardinia!

 This time around, Marcel accompanied me. Actually, I had wanted him to visit Bonifacio all along.

 

 How to get there?

 The 50-minute adventurous crossing from Santa Teresa Gallura. Ours cost EUR 30 (return). Hope you're not prone to seasickness because waves can be pretty high in winter. The Strait of Bonifacio is where the Tyrrhenian Sea meets the Western Mediterranean; currents are strong and the underwater landscape gives rise to tricky-to-sail phenomena.

 Tips: Try to book your ticket before your trip. You'll find better rates if travelling during weekdays.

 If you're travelling on foot, you must check in 30 minutes before the sailing time. This is possible inside the terminals at Santa Teresa Gallura (you must stand in line at the kiosk) and Bonifacio (an employee calls you to check in). You can park your car right before entering the tunnel that leads to the ferry terminal in Santa Teresa Gallura. Never book the last ferry (they tend to cancel it during winter).

 Even if it's colder, wear insulated and windproof/waterproof clothing and try to stay on deck during the crossing. The views are spectacular and the Corsican cliffs look especially pretty at sunset.

 

 Do you need a car for a day trip to Bonifacio?

 No. It is difficult to park in Bonifacio anyway, even in winter, and walking is the best way to see the Haute-Ville. Wear sturdy shoes; bring water and snacks. Put sunblock on even in winter (the face and neck will suffice)!

 

 Can you find anything open?

 You can walk around the Citadelle, which is gorgeous, and it'll take some time. Even the entry to certain parts of the Citadelle and beaches that you can access from it is cut. You can enjoy the narrow streets without the crowds and get to admire the staircases, colours, and window frames.

 Cimiteriu Marinu di Bunifaziu is said to be one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Even its location impresses and there's a small chapel outside of it that will surely take your cares away.

 

 There is a store open in the Marina, as you descend from the Haute-Ville, on your right side. If the Tourist Information Office in the Citadelle is closed, you can find some souvenirs here. Remember that chestnut spread, clementine jam and juice, as well as pecurinu, are delicious local products.

 

 Where can you eat?

 I mentioned food. So, where can you eat? The trickiest day to be in Bonifacio is probably a Monday, in winter.

 We only found one restaurant open in the Haute-Ville, without any vegetarian options, except for the desserts. Luckily, they were so kind to prepare something on the spot for me. It was delicious and I recommend Le Fondago from all my heart.

 

 What else can you do?

 Take a hike. Many hiking routes have the Haute-Ville de Bonifacio as a starting point. Upon my first visit, I tried the hike to Pertusatu Lighthouse and I must say that the views were extraordinary.

 Walk around the Marina. You'll even get a chance to befriend a cat!

  

 Have a dip. Marcel helped me find a secluded spot at the far end of the Marina, past the small shipyard. It's where I completed my 42nd monthly wild swimming challenge and felt alive. I did bring my swimming suit, watershoes, beach poncho, and a dry bag along.

 

 Upon my first visit to Corsica, locals joked that I would be lucky to find even a church open.

 Well, I did. And I must return to discover more because I loved my time in Bonifacio again!