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Observation deck · Bonifácio, Córsega
Phare de Pertusato
Lighthouse on the Pertusato headland, 4 km from Bonifácio, at the end of a cliffside trail with views of the upper town and Sardenha.
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 Phare de Pertusato
The Phare de Pertusato sits on the headland of the same name, about 4 km southeast of Bonifácio, and marks the southern coast of Corsica and the entrance to the harbor. It was approved in 1838, when France planned five major lighthouses around the island, and was the second to be built, after the Îles Sanguinaires one.
The lighthouse is a square stone tower on a rectangular building, automated since 1985. It is not open to visitors inside, but the walk to it is what matters.
The marked trail follows the edge of the limestone cliff from Bonifácio, with views of the upper town over the sea and, on clear days, of Sardenha. Those who prefer to shorten the walk leave the car in the traffic-light parking area and walk about 1 km to the lighthouse.
Near the headland, a steeper descent leads down to Saint-Antoine beach and a cave.
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
About 40 minutes to one hour round-trip from the traffic-light parking lot; two to three hours if walking from the town.
Best time
At late afternoon, when the low light illuminates the cliff, or early in the morning in summer. The parking lot fills up on busy days.
How to get there
By car via the D260 road to the traffic-light parking area, then on foot. On foot, the trail starts from Bonifácio near the port and follows the cliff edge.
Tip
Bring water and a hat: the trail has no shade. Do not approach the cliff edge, which can collapse.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Phare de Pertusato
Can you enter the Pertusato lighthouse?
No. The lighthouse is automated and closed to visits. The attraction is the trail to it, with views of the cliffs.
Is the trail to the Pertusato lighthouse difficult?
From the parking at the traffic lights it's easy, about 1 km. The descent to Saint-Antoine beach is steeper and slippery.
Can you walk from Bonifácio to the lighthouse?
Yes, via the marked trail that follows the cliff. Allow two to three hours round trip, and bring water.