La Signoria ★★★★★

La Signoria is in a lovely part of north-western Corsica, set in three hectares of well-tended parkland between the city of Calvi and the mountains bordering the coast.  It is surrounded by gardens of towering mature pines and palm trees, with flowers everywhere; great sweeps of bougainvillea and elegant hydrangeas as well as antique lichen-covered stone fountains.

The hotel was once part of an 18th-century Genoese estate of Paratella, granted by King Louis XV to its original owner. Now lovingly restored and with many of its antique artefacts gracing the buildings and grounds, it has only 30 rooms and suites; small, but perfectly formed! My husband had booked a Demeure Suite for the occasion, and it certainly made us feel pretty special. It was huge, with a wooden floor and architectural low arch over the French doors. Reclining outside on our little terrace among the citruses and bamboo was so tranquil that we almost didn’t want to leave. 

The atmosphere was plush, with deep rich colours, sumptuous rugs, antique furniture and elegant vases on the mantelpiece. The bathroom was wonderfully light and airy with antique tiling, a free-standing bathtub, fluffy robes and slippers and luxury toiletries from the hotel’s signature organic ‘Made in Maquis’ brand.

We opted for dinner at La Signoria Gastronomic Restaurant, harmonious and authentic, with a gorgeous view of the mountains. Chef Romain Masset impresses guests with his selection of delicious signature dishes like the succulent Corsican beef. The hotel’s Bio Spa is also a work of art, with incredibly pretty tiling around the pool, and a range of treatments, all involving their own organic cosmetics. When we set out to explore, we found the hotel’s own Signoria Mare beach, where we enjoyed secluded sun-loungers and refreshments.

Having discovered the beauties of Corsica, but more especially the antique luxuries of La Signoria, we are sure to be back: there are always more birthdays!