A Casa Reale

A Casa Reale, Bastia, Corsica, France - Explore & Book

"Historic is often overused as a description but at the recently renovated A Casa Reale you are following in the footsteps of Napoleon, Gustave Flaubert and some of the most famous nobles in French history – even the piano in the vast salon was a gift to Belgium’s King Leopold. Built in 1700, it was once part of the exclusive Hotel de l’Europe before that closed and fell into disrepair. Now the second floor has been lovingly restored into an upmarket, four-bedroom B&B overlooking the (yes, historic again) port of Bastia. The emphasis is on modern comforts but the building’s heritage is everywhere – the curated antiques, the 18th Century stuccoes and ironwork, the portraits of illustrious residents and the renovated flooring. The rooms are enormous, with views over the market square or the port, and furnished with an eye to character and homeliness. There’s a cute breakfast terrace overlooking the sea and a huge sofa-filled living room complete with library – and that piano. It’s the ideal place to relax and unwind after a hard day’s exploring among the sights and smells of old Bastia. And a great location to make your own little piece of history. Highs The location is exceptional – the whole of Bastia and its markets and sights are within walking distanceService is second to none – owner Rose has received glowing reviews from former guests, and the guesthouse can order everything from massages to romantic dinners in your roomA palpable sense of history in the characterful interiors with their paintings, antiques and old mapsIt’s well worth spending an hour or two in the library, which is filled with books about the building and its famous guests Lows Situated on the second floor so there’s no pool And no beaches within easy walking distanceChildren are welcome – even babysitting services are provided – but it’s probably best for very small or slightly older kids. Rampaging toddlers and antiques do not go togetherNot great for those with mobility issues as there's no lift and a lot of stairs" - Handpicked by our hotel experts