Funtanella

A Corsican Heritage Home Perfect for Gatherings

This storied home on a hillside in Lumio has been in the owner's family for many generations, but it has recently been thoughtfully restored, bringing its original structure back to life with deep respect for its history and a passion for detail. With terracotta floors, ancient frescoes, vaulted ceilings and multiple terraces overlooking the Bay of Calvi and the beaches of Haute-Corse, this is not your typical coastal home.

A classical maison de maître, or mansion, this 18th-century dwelling has been in the prominent Renucoli de Vinciguerra family for hundreds of years and was the childhood home of its current owner Antoine Bastelica. In addition to holding notable positions within the community, the family were landowners who produced wine, olive oil, charcuterie, and bread for the village.

Years later, restoring this majestic home has been a passion project for Antoine and his wife Muriel, who enlisted French architect Marc Deloche and a selection of skilled local artisans to help them bring it back to its former glory—with some 21st-century panache. As of September 2022, their work has been completed, and they've opened the doors of their home to guests. With its ample space and striking exteriors, it's an ideal destination for large groups and gatherings.

Restoring this remarkable home has been an act of devotion for its owners. Terracotta floors, old doors and vaulted ceilings typical of traditional Corsican architecture have been retained, and palatial wall friezes have been revealed from underneath 1970s wallpaper by restoration expert Florence Perrody, who even discovered a concealed fresco of flowers, unknown to the owners, while restoring the chimney. Wander into the garden and you'll find old jars from the mansion's farming days.

All of this history has been complemented by new woodwork and ironwork by skilled local craftsmen, Pascal Colombani and Jean Martelli. Furnishings showcase the many generations that have passed through the halls, with original pieces sitting side by side with treasures gathered by the owners in their travels throughout Europe. Design pieces by Gervasoni, Ethnicraft and Bed&Philosophy as well as two semi-professional Bulthaup kitchens, share the space with lighting sconces created from ceramic roof tiles and other recently added treasures.

Funtanella is an impressive space, with room to accommodate up to 14 guests. It's a large enough home for everyone to find their own corner then gather in the communal spaces—around the charming stone pool, on the vast terrace with its summer kitchen, and on five further terraces. Guests are also invited to wander in the Mediterranean garden, which was designed by Antoine and a young, talented designer, Baptiste Sanna. The name "Funtanella" itself comes from the fountain that sits just below the house, between the ancient olive trees and holm oaks.

With its old-world glamour and modern amenities, this villa for rent in Corsica lends itself perfectly to elegant cocktail parties, family or friend reunions, and other special events. However, it's also great for photo shoots, product launches, business seminars, yoga escapes, and artist retreats, and it can even serve as a movie location.

On-site staff can provide services from grocery shopping and cooking to chauffeuring. Concierge service is also available should guests need catering, photography, floral arrangements, or tour guides. Whatever you're interested in, please inquire.

Read about our visit to Funtanella here.

LAYOUT DETAILS

This villa for rent in Corsica is laid out over three floors. The Pink master suite on the ground floor has two bedrooms (queen, twins) and a bathroom. On the first floor are the Blue suite with a king bed and bathroom; the Tower bedroom with a queen and bathroom; Lili's and Flo's rooms, both with kings that can be divided into twins; Le Fumoir with a queen bed; plus two standalone shower rooms. 

On the second floor, the Kaki bedroom has a king with double sinks and a shower. The Orange bedroom has a king bed, with a double sink and shower. The crowning glory, the Terracotta bedroom, has a king with a private terrace that overlooks the bay, as well as a private bathroom with double sinks, a shower, and a bath with sea view.

AROUND

The beauty of Funtanella is that it allows guests to live like locals in Lumio, albeit in a former palace! A car is recommended to make the most of the area. Start your day with bread from the local artisan bakery, coffee with the locals at the village bar, and fresh fruit from the market. Pick up tomatoes, baguettes, charcuterie and cheese from local stores for a picnic at the nearest beach, or book a table at the beachfront restaurant with sun beds for the afternoon. 

Alternatively, book a winery tour. Le Clos Colombu, the architecturally intriguing wine cave of Lumio, offers a great chance to discover the wine-making process, with delicious tastings. Please ask the owners about other experiences, including Corsican meals, massages, sports coaching, sailing, snorkeling, and guided treks.

If you feel like exploring the region, there are several beaches within easy driving distance. To the north of Lumio you’ll find the wonderful, wild beach of l’Ostréiccone and further south Les Calanques de Piana, with their incredible red rock formations above the sea. Located on the northwest coast of the island within the Corsica Regional Park, the UNESCO-designated Scandola Nature Reserve covers over 900 hectares of land and over 1,000 acres of marine habitat. A breathtaking stretch of coastline, it can only be reached by boat or, for the very adventurous, on foot through steep mountainous terrain. Populated with a vibrant array of marine life and sea birds, its jagged rock formations, caves and crystal clear waters are some of the most beautiful natural wonders on the island.

Be sure to take a drive along the Route des Artisans, which crosses through several charming Corsican villages like Pigna, Corbara and San Antonino. Nearby Calvi is a bustling town with great cafes and shops and a beautiful, historical citadel.

Discover more Corsican gems in our inside guide here.

LOCATION

Lumio, Corsica, France. Nearest airport: Calvi (10 mins).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: May through June, when the maquis is starting to bloom and just before tourist season really kicks in, or September, when the crowds have dispersed.