Taking its architectural inspiration from the Roman villas that once populated the island of Corsica, Hôtel La Villa is found on the hillside high above Calvi, enjoying glorious views of the medieval citadel and Calvi Bay. Set amid picturesque gardens, guests can enjoy upscale accommodation, a selection of swimming pools, tennis court, luxe spa and fine dining restaurant focused on Corsican cuisine. The hotel is a member of the celebrated Relais & Châteaux group, boasts impeccable levels of service and has a private beach, a 5-minute drive away, for guests to enjoy the full experience of island life.
The décor showcases pared back minimalism, creating a soothing, peaceful, and stylish haven. Guests can choose from rooms, suites, apartments, or villa accommodation. General amenities include iPod speakers, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and swish marble bathrooms. Entry level Standard Rooms have a choice of either garden or citadel with sea views, while Deluxe Rooms offer more space, separate bathtub and shower, and either a terrace or balcony overlooking the citadel and sea.
There are several categories of suite, and we would recommend the Sea Master Suite which boasts a large terrace and separate living room. Families can choose from a 2 Bedroom 1 Bathroom or a 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom Suite. Alternatively, the apartments include two bedrooms, two bathrooms, separate living area and large terrace. For a private pool, book one of the generously sized Sea Prestige Apartments.
Larger families and groups can book one of the chic villas, which all include a private pool. Villa Serra sleeps up to 8 guests with four bedrooms and four bathrooms, a separate lounge, kitchen, and veranda overlooking the pool. While Villa Contemporary can sleep up to 10 with five large bedrooms and five bathrooms. These villas also have a private pool house and views over the citadel and Calvi Bay. Villa Prestige also sleeps up to 10 guests with four large ensuite bedrooms and a fifth, featuring twin beds. The villa also has a private infinity pool and large outdoor dining area.
La Table by La Villa serves accomplished Mediterranean fine dining accompanied by an excellent wine list and wonderful views. The menu has gourmet Corsican and French-influenced dishes created from fresh seasonal produce. There are also two bars, the Pool Bar which serves light snacks and drinks by the main pool and Jo’s Bar, full of elegant refinement, comfortable seating, and modern artworks, making it the perfect spot to relax with a cocktail.
A feature of the hotel are the four swimming pools. Guests can swim lengths in the stylish 25m swimming corridor bordered by the large pool. There is also a children’s pool and two other pools strategically placed to take advantage of the views. For those looking to brush up their backhand, there is also a tennis court, with coaching available.
To enhance the wellbeing of the guests, La Villa Spa features an indoor heated pool, fitness centre, two hammams and a range of beauty and massage treatments. The hotel can also arrange for guests to enjoy a spot of beach life, at La Villa Plage, which offers 4km of private sands, with sun loungers (additional charge) on Calvi Beach. A 5-minute drive away, drinks and light snacks are available.
One of Corsica’s most attractive locations, Calvi boasts an impressive medieval citadel and was the scene of the Siege of Calvi, where Horatio Nelson lost an eye. Full of bustling bars, restaurants, shops, and cafés, along with a wonderful sandy beach, the town attracts an affluent crowd who sail in on luxury yachts.
