Lavezzi Islands
Corse
The Lavezzi Islands, located in the Strait of Bonifacio between Corsica and Sardinia, form a remarkable archipelago of small granite islands and reefs. Administered from Bonifacio in Corse-du-Sud, France, the archipelago includes several islets such as Lavezzu, Cavallo (the only inhabited island), Piana, Ratino, Porraggia, and Sperduto. These islands boast some of the clearest turquoise waters in the Mediterranean, making them a paradise for nature lovers and snorkelers. Historically, the islands are notable for the tragic 1855 shipwreck of the French frigate Sémillante, commemorated by two memorial cemeteries on Lavezzu. Archaeological evidence reveals human presence dating back to the Neolithic era, including rock shelters, a Roman port, and a 7th-century chapel. The archipelago was designated a nature reserve in 1982 and is part of the International Marine Park of the Strait of Bonifacio since 1999, protecting its rich marine biodiversity and bird colonies, including Scopoli's shearwaters whose populations have benefited from conservation efforts. The islands have also served as filming locations for notable movies such as Brigitte Bardot's "Manina, la fille sans voiles." Access is exclusively by boat from Bonifacio, with careful navigation required due to narrow channels. The combination of pristine natural beauty, historical significance, and ecological importance makes the Lavezzi Islands a unique Mediterranean destination.
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Tip: Visit the Lavezzi Islands during late spring to early autumn for optimal weather and clear waters. Access is only by boat from Bonifacio, with a ferry taking about 20 minutes. Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak season. Visitors should respect the protected natural reserve areas and follow designated paths. Snorkeling and light diving are popular activities, especially at the underwater trail and "Mérouville" site. Note that landing is only permitted on select islands including Lavezzu, Piana, and Cavallo. The channels can be tricky to navigate for private sailors, so caution is advised.
Interesting facts
- •The Lavezzi Islands are the southernmost point of Metropolitan France.
- •Between 255 and 400 pairs of Scopoli's shearwaters breed annually on Lavezzu, with increased success after eradication of invasive black rats in 2000.
- •The archipelago served as a filming location for Brigitte Bardot's 1952 film "Manina, la fille sans voiles."
- •The French frigate Sémillante sank near the islands in 1855, one of the deadliest maritime disasters in French naval history.
- •There are two memorial cemeteries on Lavezzu dedicated to the victims of the Sémillante shipwreck.
History
The Lavezzi Islands have evidence of human activity dating back to the Neolithic period, with rock shelters discovered on site.
During Roman times, a port existed here, and a chapel was built in the 7th century.
The archipelago is historically marked by the 1855 sinking of the French frigate Sémillante, which resulted in a significant loss of life; the victims are commemorated in two cemeteries on Lavezzu.
In 1982, the islands were declared a nature reserve, and since 1999 they have been part of the International Marine Park of the Strait of Bonifacio, reflecting their ecological and cultural importance.
Place Guide
Lavezzu Island1874
The second largest island in the archipelago, home to the memorial cemeteries for the Sémillante shipwreck victims and a historic lighthouse built in 1874. It is a core part of the nature reserve and a breeding ground for seabirds.
Cavallo Island
The only inhabited island in the archipelago, featuring two small islets, San Baïnso and Camaro Canto. Cavallo is excluded from the nature reserve and offers limited visitor access with some private residences.
Underwater Trail and Mérouville Site
A popular snorkeling and light diving spot featuring a submerged trail at about two meters depth. The area is known for sightings of large groupers, some weighing up to 40 kilograms.
