The Straits of Bonifacio - the body of water between Sardinia and
Corsica is not large and we mistakenly didn't give it the respect it
deserved. Leaving an island off Sardinia after a long, lovely morning
swim, we headed off with full sails towing Haze. As soon as we were
out of the protection of land, the wind blew 25 and full waves rushed
into the cockpit as we beat our way northwest. We quickly reefed the
sails, but we still were getting pounded and our dinghy was taking on
serious waves. We found a rock island not too far off and made for
its lee. We quickly anchored, put Haze on deck and prepared for the
15 mile slog to Bonifacio. Lesson learned - never underestimate the
Straits of Bonifacio.
It is always nice to revisit some favorites so we were happy to spend
some more time cruising the west side of Corsica on our way north.
Besides being a place we love, Bonifacio gave us great shelter from
the mistral that was blowing across the Med. We hiked
along the picturesque (hence all the pictures) cliffs, enjoyed the
Corsican cuisine, and worked on our website (you think this is
effortless?). Next stop was Ajaccio the capital of Corsica where we
were surprised at how cosmopolitan it was compared to the rustic
terrain of Corsica. From Ajaccio, we continued up the coast back to
Girolata, another favorite port with great hikes all around. Out of
time before we needed to be back in mainland France, we took one last swim and headed off at sunset.
Looking south along the cliffs towards Sardinia in the background. It
was a beautiful walk.
A hidden passage along our walk.
Pertusato lighthouse and the end of our walk.
Busted!
The day before the winds were howling across the Straits of Bonifacio
and we ducked behind the rock island, Ile Lavezzi, for some temporary shelter. Now
we view the calm waters. We also befriended 'Tripper' our canine
walking companion seen in the foreground.
I think there will be a dog in our future.
Vanish and Haze settling into a couple of days in Bonifacio - one of
the most picturesque ports we've visited.
Bonifacio from above, can you find Vanish. Here's a hint, you can
sort of see Haze hanging from the side.
Cliffs of Bonifacio and 'High Town'.
Renee on the town.
Do you think they let the kids play in the yard?
Ajaccio, capital of Corsica and birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.
The town was actually nicer than the picture shows.
We liked Girolata so much the first time, we went back for more. Plus
it was a sheltered harbor from the active westerlies.
Afternoon hike from Girolata. Can you believe we reached our
destination and they were out of beer? End of season I guess.
Small cala just south of Calvi and our last stop in Corsica before a
night passage to Cannes. Very pretty at sunset.
