Hotel Chez Charles ★★★★

I liked the idea of staying somewhere named Chez Charles, as if it’s staying at a friend house for several days. Little did I know that this small boutique hotel was about to become my Corsican friend...

We arrive in Corsica, jump into our rental car and drive through the warm air, windows wound down and the vision of beautiful landscapes surrounding us. The geographical diversity of this island is simply astounding! As we near the hotel my mouth waters with the thought of the award-winning cuisine, my body is longing to collapse onto a comfortable bed and I cannot wait to take a morning swim in the large swimming pool taking in those simply astonishing views! The next moment we are parking our car in the hotel’s private parking and then standing in the modern yet atmospheric reception fumbling for our passports to complete our check-in.

A friendly atmosphere greets us immediately, and we feel immensely welcomed by the happy islanders that live here. A perfect balance of aesthetics; a blend of modernity yet comfort reveals itself from the hotel interior. Our room carries this same charming ambience. A spacious boudoir waits for us, light streaming in from the windows onto the quilted and large bed. The bathroom is tiled in dark, glossy tiling and has all the necessary amenities. We had all the technology we needed, wireless internet and a television but we planned a plan to avoid them, this would be our time to just relax and disconnect. Our small balcony provided mighty views of the grassy hills and exotic plain below, we just could not ask for anything more!

A soft laziness comes over us and we decide to have an afternoon nap, waking up just in time to freshen up and make our way to L’Oggi. I was about to get my delicious fix of dishes created by the talented chef Loris Cornacchia that I had been anticipating for so long! Although the interior of the restaurant is chic and elegant, my husband and I decide to dine on the terrace and enjoy the warm spring evening, watching the sky change colour and the lights that sparkle on the other end of Calvi bay. Sensational company – not just my husband, but the restaurant stuff are impeccable – an astounding view and scrumptious Corsican food combine to make the most spectacular evening. The succulent wine that we choose from the extensive wine list and stored in the hotel’s own wine cellar, leaves us with a joyful haze by the end of the meal and we decide to call it an early night.

In the morning my husband wakes me up with a surprise breakfast which he kindly asked to be delivered to that room that morning. We happily munch on homemade jams, bread and yoghurt and finish off with a sweet fruit salad. After a filling breakfast we head for the sun beds and a relaxed day by the pool. The terrace and infinity pool boast another set of captivating views. To my delight the snack bar serves a more gourmet type of food and we don’t go hungry throughout the day. That evening we sip on aperitifs before dinner, indulging in the enchanting atmosphere of the Jean’s Lounge bar. This modern venue is decorated playfully with different coloured lights and eclectic shaped furnishings.

Over dinner that night we plan a more active itinerary for our second day; a morning to trip to Arinella beach, and then a trip to Calvi itself. We are so glad to be in this region of Corsica in Balagne, observing such a beautiful creation; the natural scenery makes a welcome change to the city concrete. I hope that the day when we have to leave never arrives!