12 September, 2019
Once an 18th-century farmhouse, La Dimora beguiles guests with its rich heritage, unspoiled nature and great Patrimonio wines. Use this as your base for exploring Corsica's national parks and enjoying pristine beaches sans crowds.
Tucked in the hills off the Golfe de Saint-Florent, La Dimora is the perfect base for exploring northern Corsica and recharging your batteries. A former 18th-century farmhouse, today the hotel is an idyllic place to relax by the pool away from the madding crowds that overrun Corsica's coastal towns in the summer. Its location in proximity of the Désert des Agriates is ideal for hiking opportunities and hours of adrenaline-fuelled off-road rides in search of wild and untouched beaches. If that's not enough to persuade you, La Dimora is right on the Patrimonio wine route - you'll likely never want to drink any other rosé after your try one from Corsica's most popular domaine.
La Dimora has been lovingly restored by its owner, paying homage to both the hotel's heritage and its surrounding environment. The natural stone used throughout the building is elegant and practical, keeping the rooms cool in the heat of the summer. It's the little details that really standout, however: a stone bench in the bathroom blends in with the walls; there's a built-in wardrobe that hides behind an old, imposing farm door; guests will come across Gaia sculptures in unexpected corners. In addition to the 17 spacious rooms, there are also two villas with private pools for those seeking extra privacy.
A buffet breakfast will give you an opportunity to taste a variety of Corsica's sweet and savoury treats. For a truly relaxing and slow morning, head to the courtyard where you can enjoy your coffee while reading a book or simply listening to birdsong.
The restaurant by the pool serves light meals for lunch and a more extensive menu combining French and Italian classics come dinner. Opt for traditional cold cuts such as figatelli to start with, try the catch of the day as your main, and wash it down with a bottle (or two) of local wine. If you're looking to venture out, head to La Ferme de Campo di Monte, a tiny farmhouse-turned-restaurant serving a set menu of home-cooked Corsican dishes paired with unlimited local wine. (Beware, it's not vegetarian or pescetarian-friendly and booking is essential.)
Surrounded by vine-covered stone pillars and native greenery, the Pera Bianca Bar is ideal for sipping the best wines from Patrimonio. In the late afternoon, head to the pool for a dip and aperitivo while watching the sun go down.
If you're in need of a pamper session, there is a jacuzzi and a hammam, which you can use free of charge, or book yourself a treatment in the Water Room spa. You'll most likely find us by the heated outdoor pool surrounded by olive groves, reading a book or sipping a spritz (or both).
Given La Dimora's idyllic location away from the main towns, make sure you hire a car to get around. Conveniently, the hotel has both parking and even electric charging stations, including one for a Tesla vehicle.
A 10-minute drive will take you to Saint-Florent, a small fishermen's town with a gorgeous bay - Kate Moss is rumoured to have honeymooned here a few years ago. From there, hire a boat or a 4x4 and head off-road in the direction of Saleccia, one of the most beautiful (and wildest) beaches in Corsica.