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Island · Bonifácio, Córsega
Îles Lavezzi
Granite archipelago in the Strait of Bonifácio, a nature reserve with clear-water coves, visited by boat in season.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Îles Lavezzi
The Îles Lavezzi form an archipelago of 23 islands, islets and granite reefs about 10 km southeast of Bonifácio, in the strait that separates Corsica from Sardenha. It is the southernmost point of metropolitan France. To the south lies the Italian archipelago of La Maddalena.
The archipelago is a nature reserve, and access is by sea only. Boats land on the island Lavezzo, which has sandy coves, wind‑rounded rocks and marked trails. The island has a lighthouse from 1874 and two small maritime cemeteries.
In 1855 the frigate La Sémillante was wrecked here in a storm, on its way to the Crimean War, with no survivors. A stele on a small islet to the south of the island commemorates the wreck.
To protect the island, visitation is controlled, with a daily visitor limit on peak summer days. Stay on authorized trails and carry your trash out.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day to a full day, including the roughly 30‑minute crossing each way.
Best time
The boat season usually runs from April to October. The sea is typically warmer from July to September. Take the first boat of the morning to have more time and fewer people.
How to get there
By boat from Bonifácio's port, with several companies operating in season. There are round-trip options with free time on the island, or tours that include the cliffs and caves.
Tip
Bring water, a snack, a hat and sunscreen: there is no shade or shops on the island. A mask and snorkel help you see the fish in the coves.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Îles Lavezzi
How to get to the Îles Lavezzi?
Only by boat. In season, which usually runs from April to October, several companies depart from Bonifácio's port with a crossing of about 30 minutes.
Is there a restaurant or shade on the Îles Lavezzi?
No. It's a nature reserve with no shops and no shade. Bring water, food, a hat and sunscreen, and take your trash back with you.
Do you need to book the boat to the Îles Lavezzi?
In summer, yes: there is a daily visitor limit on peak days. Book with the boat company before you go.