Attractions and Places To See in Forêt De Bonifatu - Top 20

For breathtaking vistas, head to the Panorama of the Bonifatu valley. This summit offers fantastic views of the mountains and diverse botany, providing majestic and satisfying vistas of the entire valley. Another notable spot is the Cirque de Bonifatu, formed by a ridge of high peaks like Monte Corona and Capu di a Marcia.

The Figarella River, which winds through the forest, is famous for its numerous natural swimming pools. These crystal-clear freshwater basins are perfect for cooling off after a hike. The Lamitu Creek is also a very pretty spot to visit, where you can cross the stream, often on stones, during midsummer. Remember to bring water shoes due to the rocky terrain.

Yes, Forêt De Bonifatu offers several easy and family-friendly walks. The "Boucle de Ficaghjola" is a 4.25 km circuit perfect for discovering the forest's nature. The "Boucle de Calatoghju" is an easy 2.6 km walk with views of the Calvi citadel, and the "Boucle de Candia" is a 4 km family walk following a historic route of charcoal burners. The Figarella Loop is another family-friendly 6 km option that combines hiking with swimming.

For experienced hikers, Forêt De Bonifatu serves as a starting point for sections of the famous GR20 and Mare è Monti long-distance hiking trails. You can find challenging routes like the Bonifatu Refuge – Refuge de l'Ortu di u Piobbu loop or the Bocca di Pisciaghja Pass – Awesome Panorama loop. The ascent to Refuge Carrozzu, often part of the GR20, is also a challenging hike.

Yes, the Forest Inn (Auberge de la Forêt) is located at the entrance to the forest. It serves as a gîte d'étape (stopover lodging) during the tourist season and is a common starting point for many hikes. It welcomes visitors in a magnificent setting and offers catering and accommodation.

Forêt De Bonifatu is a refuge for diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for royal eagles soaring above, mouflons (wild sheep) in the mountainous areas, and the endemic Corsican nuthatch among the trees. The forest's ancient trees, including Corsican laricio pines and green oaks, provide a rich habitat for these species.

The best time to visit Forêt De Bonifatu is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is milder and ideal for hiking. Summer (July and August) can be hot, but the natural pools offer a refreshing escape. Winter brings cooler temperatures and potential snow at higher elevations, offering a different, more serene experience.

The Figarella River is a central feature of Forêt De Bonifatu, known for carving out numerous natural swimming pools as it flows through the forest. Its crystal-clear waters are a major draw for visitors seeking to cool off. Hikers can also experience the thrill of crossing suspension bridges over the river, such as the one on the Figarella Loop.

While not rich in historical buildings, Forêt De Bonifatu holds cultural significance as a "blessed place" (Bonifatu meaning "benefit" in Corsican), historically valued for its cool environment and pure water from the Spasimata fountain, believed to offer healing. The Sentier de la Transhumance, a five-stage path inspired by ancient shepherd routes, also reflects a rich cultural heritage of Corsican traditions.

In addition to its extensive hiking opportunities, Forêt De Bonifatu is suitable for a variety of other outdoor sports. You can enjoy fishing in the Figarella River, explore climbing routes, or take on cycling adventures. For cycling enthusiasts, there are several road cycling routes available, including loops that offer views of the surrounding landscape.

Yes, hikers can experience the thrill of crossing suspension bridges within Forêt De Bonifatu. Notable examples include a suspension bridge near Refuge Carrozzu and the Spasimata suspension bridge. These bridges often offer unique perspectives of the river and forest landscape.

Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse hiking opportunities, from easy family walks to challenging GR20 sections, and the stunning natural beauty. The refreshing natural pools of the Figarella River are a highlight for many, especially during warmer months. The silence and fantastic views from spots like the Panorama of the Bonifatu valley are also highly appreciated for recharging amidst nature.