PIANTARELLA
Bonifacio, a town on the southern tip of the island, is one of the windiest spots in Europe, with over 190 days of force 4 or more. Just outside the town is the spot of Piantarella, to get there drive through Bonifacio and turn right at the surf shop. The spot has a real Caribbean atmosphere with white sand, a lagoon and crystal clear water! Your feet can touch the bottom of a large part of the lagoon, which makes it possible to reach the Lavezzi islands. Piantarella is suitable for everyone, from beginners to experts, who can leave the lagoon to sail further out. East winds are clean but a west/northwest wind is gusty with holes. You can launch from both sides of the bay and rent windsurfing equipment from the Bonifacio windsurf shop. Be careful of the many boats which anchor in the bay in August. Foil use is possible but restricted due to shallow water in the middle of the lagoon. It’s best to get to Piantarella early if you want a parking spot. You can eat on-site at Momo’s beach bar, at the entry of Piantarella beach.
SANT’AMANZA
On the east coast of the island, from Bonifacio, continue your journey towards Porto Vecchio and follow the signs for Sant’Amanza. This spot is awesome with an east wind and depending on the wind strength you can go slalom, freeride or wave sailing, just watch out for rocks. With good parking facilities, the spot is easily accessible and has few visitors, even in summer. It’s very safe with an east wind and in a west wind the spot works well also, with a venturi effect in the middle of the bay, giving completely flat conditions for good blasting. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the dolphins that come into the bay every day to feed!
EXPLORE
There are many other amazing spots on the island. Tacking upwind in the crystal clear waters around Palombaggia, near Porto-Vechhio on the east coast, is a memory that will stay with you forever. It’s best to visit off season as May/June and September/October will allow you to make the most of the conditions without the hassle of tourist beach rules and regulations.
“ Corsica offers an intoxicating mix of sea and mountains.”