Located in the Cap Corse area of Corsica, The Castel Brando is a charming boutique hotel in a 19th century mansion surrounded by splendid gardens with century-old palm trees. The house itself is a fine example of the type of stately home built by Corsicans who had immigrated to New World, and returned to the island once their fortunes had been made. Here, crisp-white walls and vaulted ceilings contrast with ancient terracotta floors, and the hotel has its own original antique furniture and decorative items, all creating a special ambience that is purely Corsican. The different buildings are connected by stone-paved lanes that lead to green, refreshing gardens and sunny terraces, where only birdsong and the murmuring of a small fountain disturb the quietness. Just nearby are the hotel's two swimming pools, one of which is heated, and the Jacuzzi by which you can comfortably rest and sunbathe. The small lobby and its library is a warm, cosy space where you can sip tea or a glass of wine during cooler spring and autumn nights.

This is one place where it's really worth paying for a privilege or superior room: you get more space, nicer views and a balcony/terrace with table and chairs or a private loggia. They are simple but warm and welcoming and most have WiFi access. Rooms are situated in the main villa or the 'Villa Orangeraie' and you'll wake up to the sound of birdsong in the morning and nothing else - the ambience is very peaceful. After breakfast, you can rent a mountain bike from the hotel or just venture 100 metres to the sea's edge and embark on a visit of coves with a double kayak, also available to rent. At the hotel there's a steam bath, and just down the road you'll find the tennis courts which are free to use.

With the Mediterranean Sea only 100 metres away, the hotel is nestled in the charming village of Erbalunga, an elegant retreat for many French and international celebrities. A preserved medieval harbour, Erbalunga is listed as an official historical landmark and is frequently described as one of Corsica's most beautiful spots by leading newspapers, magazines and reference travel guides. Only a few footsteps away from the hotel, you will find the historical centre of Erbalunga, its animated cafés and restaurants' terraces, its picturesque stone-paved alleys, the medieval tower and the tiny fishermen harbour.