June 4 Castelsardo and Bonifacio - from one country to the next

 

Apropos of nothing at all - this rock formation intrigued everyone

As we have traveled through Sardinia there has been an interesting mix of cultures - Sardinian, Italian and here in Algheto, Catalonian. This small region on the west coast was ruled by the Catalonians for a long time. But it was time for us to move on. This morning we left Alghero and wound our way north to the rather picturesque Castelsardo in northern Sardinia - and yes it has an ancient castle. It is purported to be famous for its basket weaving although on our wander through the narrow streets of this medieval citadel we didn’t see any. We did however see lots of shops selling coral. The Mediterranean no longer has the great coral reefs that thrived 60 million years ago but it is home to more than 200 species of coral some of which are endemic to the region.

Approaching Castelsardo looking quite stunning on its peninsula

Thankfully a bus took us to this point; the rest was was by foot

There were a lot of ups and downs

Prickly pear everywhere. The flowers are very pretty

Occasionally there has to be a flower!

These steps led to a museum but we had climbed enough

We climbed and climbed weaving through this old fortified city - then it started to rain.  Fortunately we found a delightful spot sheltered by umbrellas to sit out a torrential downpour which blew in while we were there - and have a spot of lunch.

A sandwich and coffee with splendid views

Then came the soaking rain

That afternoon we had a mad dash to catch the ferry which would take us across the water to Corsica (France). We only just made it but they wouldn’t let the bus on board so our poor driver Paolo had to wait for the next ferry due a few hours later.

Corsica and Bonifacio in the distance

We were watched by an imposing citadel as we entered the Bonifacio harbour

As we approached Bonifacio the citadel and fortifications loomed high, perched overlooking the sea, guarding the entrance to a cozy narrow harbour. The harbour moorings were choked with huge yachts and cruisers - a giant marina.

Rather stunning view from our hotel window

Our hotel was right on the harbour. It was a little cramped but cute plus we had a marvellous view over the harbour. That night we dined royally.

Entree was mussels gratin and eggplant followed by an osso buco of fish, most unusual.

Neighbouring diners had crepes. I was entranced watching the fire leapt up to the jug of brandy