Lavezzi Islands by catamaran: the granite archipelago of the Straits of Bonifacio
The Lavezzi Islands, a granite archipelago situated in the Straits of Bonifacio some 10km south-east of Corsica, rank among the most protected sites in the Mediterranean. The catamaran excursion from Bonifacio is the most appreciated way to reach them, not only because it opens up the archipelago, but because it allows one to pass along the white limestone cliffs of Bonifacio, one of France’s great natural sites.
The archipelago is integrated within the Straits of Bonifacio Nature Reserve, mainland France’s largest nature reserve, created to protect the waters, seabed and bird colonies that characterise this strait between Corsica and Sardinia.
The archipelago: pink granite, turquoise waters, coves
The Lavezzi comprise around a dozen islands and islets of granite, including the main island (Lavezzi), Cavallo (private, largely occupied by residences), Piana, Ratino. The local granite, sculpted by marine erosion and wind, takes on characteristic rounded forms, which some compare to the landscapes of the Seychelles or inland Corsica.
The beaches and coves are numerous, with fine sand or shingle, accessible by marked paths from the landing point. The water, of exceptional clarity, unfolds in shades of turquoise and deep blue according to depth.
The catamaran from Bonifacio
The catamaran excursion is more contemplative than fast speedboats. Departure is either from Paragan Bay (along the cliffs of Bonifacio) or from Santa Manza Bay (along the island of Cavallo), with the choice depending on weather conditions. Both journeys are 10 minutes from the centre of Bonifacio.
The crossing takes approximately 1 hour under sail. It is the moment when the catamaran heels gently in the wind, when one sees the foam against the hull, and when one takes the measure of the open sea. The experience is very different from that of motorboats which make the crossing in 30 minutes; the sailing vessel adds a dimension that justifies its additional cost.
On site: swimming, snorkelling, dining
On arrival, the catamaran anchors in a sheltered cove. Lunch is served on board (depending on the package), with local produce. The afternoon is free: swimming, paddleboarding, snorkelling, or simply walking the island’s trails.
The seabed of the Lavezzi is among Europe’s most protected: fishing has been forbidden for decades, anchoring is strictly regulated, diving is supervised. One may observe shoals of barracuda, brown grouper, sometimes shoals of sea bream in shallow areas. Snorkelling from the beach’s edge already provides access to an exceptional visual world.
The maritime cemetery of Lavezzi
A historical peculiarity of the islands: a small cemetery houses the graves of sailors from the frigate La Sémillante, which ran aground on the rocks of the Lavezzi in the night of 15 to 16 February 1855. The vessel was transporting French troops towards the Crimean War. 773 people perished in the shipwreck, with no survivors. The cemetery, simple and moving, is a standard stopping point on visits.
When to go
The season runs from April to mid-October. Catamaran excursions are sensitive to wind; in strong mistral conditions, navigation may be cancelled or shortened. Mornings are the safest and most beautiful. May-June and September are the ideal windows: fewer people, more stable sailing conditions, softer light.
Planning a stay in Pianottoli-Caldarello
AEC Collection selects and represents villas and houses of standing in Pianottoli-Caldarello, Bonifacio and in the far south of Corsica. Excursions to the Lavezzi can be booked directly with operators departing from Bonifacio.
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