Lenza Barn

Corsican Craziness Rewarded

On a little plot of land (a lenza), on a panoramic slope tangled with aromatic Corsican maquis, stands a multi-level, solar-powered, wooden home inspired by timeless rural barns and mid-century modern lines. Views from the dramatic island perch extend to Sardinia, across the wind-sculpted granite outcroppings of the Bruzzi peninsula, and deep into the mountain-backed Bay of Figari.

Named for the Corsican word meaning both “little plot of land” and “a little crazy,” this barn is anything but. Striking views spin 360 degrees from wide windows and multiple decks, showcasing the Isle of Beauty’s breathtakingly wild, rugged landscape. The barn’s interiors feature vintage and original design pieces, including the rosewood Ole Wansher dining table that dates back to the 1960s, and a buffet from the 17th century. Pendant lamps, books, artworks and plants dress up the practically designed, open-plan common spaces, and a pool overlooks the distant mountain silhouettes and the maquis, the island’s native shrubbery, on the surrounding slopes. Sliding doors and oversized windows opening onto elevated terraces give the home a little bit of a treehouse vibe and blur the boundaries between indoors and out. Outdoorsy types will find nirvana right outside the front door on quiet hiking, running and beach-combing paths.

Around

Perched above a spot known as Caconu in Corsica’s south, some 20 kilometers northwest of Bonifacio, the house is located in a wild, little-traveled area. Just outside the door of the home, there’s a ridge path for walking and jogging. Rolling and mostly shady, it’s perfect for a quick bit of exercise followed by a jump in the pool. For longer outings, opt to go to the right outside of the home, taking the ridge path leading to Chevanu Beach and continuing across the bay to the Bruzzi Loop Path, a well-loved regional hike that climbs past the area’s trademark tafoni, or granite boulder fields and stacks. Wild creeks spill down from the mountains as you make your way around the Bruzzi loop, and there’s a beautiful red sand beach among the more classic white sands, the color a unique phenomenon that results from a concentration of single cell organisms. Snorkeling the peninsula’s bays is possible. 

Another strenuous hike climbs to the notable Uomo di Cagna a rocky pinnacle with a human likeness. Kitesurfers should head to the Bay of Figari, or seek out a guide on Balistra Beach, where there’s also a sweet little beer and burger shack. If the wind is right, Muchju Biancu Beach is idyllic for kite surfers, but regardless of the elements, it is among southern Corsica’s prettiest beaches and rarely crowded, given its off-the-beaten path access down a narrow path, a quick drive from the home. Wine tasting and touring options exist at several vineyards in the region, and the local AOC of Figari is Corsica’s oldest designated wine producing region, with well-known vintner Yves Canarelli’s winery located in nearby Tarrabucetta.

Location

Pianottoli-Caldarello, Corsica, France. Nearest airport: Figari-Sud Corse (15 minutes)

Best Time to Visit

May to September