Hotel San Giovani

Hotel San Giovani

Star Rating: ***

Hôtel San Giovanni is an idyllic retreat standing in beautifully tended gardens and with excellent food. A warm welcome awaits you at Hôtel San Giovanni from the owner, Patricia Vidoni, and her family. Standing in 12 acres of grounds, Hôtel San Giovanni is surrounded by mature gardens, lovingly tended and carefully landscaped with an abundance of flowers and flourishing shrubs.

The rooms are simply furnished yet comfortable and each has its own balcony or terrace where you can enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings and drink in the luxuriant views. The pool area and tennis courts are positioned in the extensive grounds, well away from the rooms. If you are a food lover, you will undoubtedly relish the hotel’s home-made cooking using local herbs and produce – giving you a true flavour of authentic Corsica.

The hotel is less than 10 minutes’ drive from the centre of Porto Vecchio and for those who want to laze by the sea, some of the finest beaches can be found just 15 minutes’ drive away, including the renowned Santa Giulia and Palombaggia beaches. This idyllic haven offers excellence throughout, with beautiful gardens and a fantastic menu.

This hotel is considered unsuitable for young children due to the design of the balconies and open waterways in the grounds.

Whats Included:

• Return flights
• Car hire
• Bed & breakfast
• FREE Airport Lounge
• 23kg luggage

Things to see and do

Old Porto Vecchio

The old Genoese walled town still seduces visitors with its picturesque narrow streets and the austerity of its high stone houses that are set within the Citadel's ramparts. Wander the ancient streets, the Borgo, where you can see the enormous twisted tree of the Place de la République, the 19th century church of St-Jean Baptiste and the gallery housed within the Bastion di A Funtana Vecchia. Experience live Corsican music and soak up the local atmosphere. Amongst the best venues is 'la Taverne du Roi', which is tucked away in the citadel of Porto Vecchio. Many restaurants also host a Corsican night once a week featuring a local band - look out for posters or ask your representative for up-to-date information.

Porto Vecchio Marina

Within a few minutes walk of the old town, the marina lined with cafés is an excellent place to enjoy a leisurely drink during those hot summer evenings. There is also a variety of boat trips on offer with tours around the beautiful coastline.

Horse riding

Go horse riding on Palombaggia or San Ciprianu beach early morning, a truly memorable experience.

L'Ospedale and Col de Bavella

Drive inland more than 1200m up to the spectacular Col de Bavella, one of the most dramatic passes in Corsica with stunning views across extensive forest, ocean and mountains. Also visit the surrounding mountain villages in the area. Try canyoning or take a dip in a rock pool in the rivers of the Bavella massif. There are many walks through the forests to the hidden waterfalls of the Alta Rocca, including Piscia di Gallo, or Cockerall falls. A short drive inland from Porto Vecchio will bring you to the Ospédale forest, and some great spots for a picnic.

Prehistoric settlements

Explore the prehistoric settlements of Casteddu d'Araggiu, just north of Porto Vecchio above the hamlet of Palavesa - a well-preserved site dating back from 1500BC. The views from here over the Gulf of Porto Vecchio are truly spectacular. Should you wish to venture further afield, the prehistoric sites of Cucuruzzu and Capula near Levie are also worth the detour.

Mountain restaurant

Try one of the mountain restaurants and indulge your tastebuds with mountain food. Amongst our recommendations are 'le Refuge' near the Lac de l'Ospedale or 'A Pignata' in the village of Levie.

Bonifacio

At Corsica’s southernmost point, the fortress town of Bonifacio sits in an isolated location perched high on a limestone plateau and surrounded by an expanse of maquis. Mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey, the precipitous white cliffs overhang the turquoise waters below and are honeycombed with old watery grottoes. Established in 833, the old town is rich in history with its dramatic Citadel, ramparts and maze of narrow cobbled streets. The newer harbour has a more Italian flair with an abundance of cafés and restaurants dotted along the Quai Comparetti – the perfect spot to watch the yachts set sail.

Accommodation

Facilities in hotel

• Heated swimming pool (16m x 9m, max depth 1.7m)
• Large garden
• Pool terrace
• Bar
• Restaurant
• Tennis court
• Jacuzzi
• Sauna
• Table tennis
• Wi-Fi
• Parking
• No lift.

Facilities in room

• En-suite shower room with WC
• Television
• Telephone
• Air-conditioning
• Wi-Fi
• Balcony or terrace.