Corsica’s Pieri Hotels – an opportunity to join the family

Corsica historically gained a foothold in the Mediterranean tourist circuit as an extension of the Riviera. As many of you know, this kind of region is known for attracting glitzy holiday goers and often tends to lead to nondescript accommodation sites springing up in droves. But Corsica, an island which has preserved a strong sense of identity throughout its history, offers us today two very special family-run “non-hotels” that aim to give their guests a truly memorable holiday experience.

© Copyright Hotel Castel Brando

Castel Brando Hotel – Located in Erbalunga, a charming little fishing village in the Cap Corse, this 19^th century mansion was originally built in 1854 by Corsican immigrants returning from Latin America, much like many other patrician constructed by numerous Corsican families at the time, who emigrated before returning back home once they had massed considerable wealth abroad. Today, the abode has managed to preserve its original architectural charm and established itself as a historical monument by keeping the original wall prints, furniture and 19^th century aesthetics. It also boasts a pool and spa. This mansion is so inspiring that it could be the perfect place to write a symphony!

© Copyright Hotel Les Mouettes

Les Mouettes Hotel – At about one kilometre of Ajaccio stands this 19^thcentury house which was turned into the ‘Hostellerie de la Grande Bleue’ beach residence around 1920. It hosted English travellers during the winter months during its youth, rhyming well with Ajaccio’s ‘English’ neighbourhood which came to be at the beginning of the 20^th century. In 1954, the residence was officially turned into a hotel and has hosted famous icons throughout the years such as Maria Callas, Eric Cantona and Segolene Royal. Now a four star hotel, the establishment embraces the Riviera spirit whilst maintaining its original charms. It prides itself as being not so much a hotel but a beautiful summer home with character. Definitely the perfect place for a short break at only 3 hours from London.

Ultimately, what these two hotels have in common is not only a mission to offer guests a luxurious stay, at an affordable price, that is both special and exceptional, but also the opportunity to stay in a family-run hotel that embraces its past as much as its future. Staff want to see their guests grow old and share memories with them that they can create on their stunning sites. The Pieri hotels want to be seen as a form of extension of their guests’ living rooms.

Both the Castel Brando hotel and the ‘Les Mouettes’ hotels proudly sit under the title of the ‘Cercle des Grandes Maison Corses’. This label comprises two thirds of Corsica’s 4 and 5 star hotels and each identify as unique ‘homes away from home’. These establishments all bear strong Corsican character and distinguishing features whilst allowing the guests to opt out of the commercial hotel option for a traditional Corsican landmark. Most of the Michelin starred Corsican restaurantsalso fall under this umbrella title which is still in its growth period and will be steadily evolving over the next three years. Additionally, these hotels are known for having a very dedicated client base who loyally return year after year.The family-run Pieri hotels will offer its guests the ability to create lasting memories and to be a part of the rich Corsican heritage. To start your holiday experience in one of these hotels and find out more on how to go about it, get in touch!

If you’d like to see the whole of our trip to Corsica, take a look at our photo gallery.