Il Convento B&B

A Capuchin Convent Reborn as an Elegant Retreat

We're always discovering something new and amazing in Corsica, and this beautifully restored, 500-year-old former convent in the heart of the mountains and the maquis reminds us of why we always return. With beautiful views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, amazingly preserved history and delicious cuisine, we'll be back.

Located above the northeastern coast of Corsica on the Cap Corse, this 15th-century Capuchin convent was home to monks before it was acquired in 1796 by a local noble family in whose hands it has remained since.

The beauty of the original structure and dedication of the owners to preserve its authentic charm is evident throughout. Classic and traditional, all of the decor, furnishings and original paintings bring back the rich history and timeless appeal. Each a time capsule of history and refinement, some still feature the original layout of the monk's cells.

The whole property can be rented as one unit, but you can also come as a B&B guest during certain months of the year, and enjoy delicious local cuisine from your hosts. As a B&B, there are five double rooms and one family suite, but the house will never be occupied by more than eight guests at a time.  Chambre Augusta is a queen-sized, ground floor room with a bathtub and shower, offering views of the pool and sea.

Chambre Pax is worthy of its peaceful name, a first floor, queen room with shower, accessed by an independent entrance, with a balcony overlooking the garden and a rooftop terrace.

Suite du Cloitre is a Bell Tower room with a view patio and window out to sea. It has a living area and both parents' (double) and three children's rooms, private stairwell and a large bathroom with a bathtub.

Chambre d'Elbe is a former monk's cell on the first floor with a stunning sea view, a shower, and the possibility to add a single child's room to it for families.

Chambre Olivier This space is expressly for families or friends traveling together wanting to extend the Elbe suite and add a double bedroom and bath with a shower and sea views.

Suite E Loggie is located at the convent's entrance, a studio reached up a short staircase, offering sea and garden views from its queen-sized bedroom, living room and bath with shower. The newest addition, the restored space features exposed beams and stone walls.

The terraces, solarium and extensive gardens are lush and private and, along with the pool, offer amazing views of the countryside and out to sea. 

This property is also available as a vacation rental. For an interview with the owner of this home, visit our magazine here.  For a short video, click here.

Additional features

While the rooms are wifi enabled, there are no TVs, safes or minibars.

Generous country-style breakfasts with homemade brioche, blackberry jam and several Corsican specials are served every day between 8-10am in the patio. 

Owner Emmanuelle is on hand at all times to prepare additional Corsican and Mediterranean fare passed down for generations and made from locally-sourced, eco responsible ingredients. This extra service is available for between 44 to 48 euros per person, and if there are no dietary restrictions each meal is a surprise. All meals are prepared from locally-sourced organic produce and vegetables grown on the property. There is an extra charge for a full-time chef. Wine and beverages are not included in the price, but the owners work with local winemakers and can provide local organic wine and other drinks for an extra charge.

Other services on offer include booking activities, grocery shopping, booking restaurants, arranging for babysitters, extra housekeeping, a curated list of nearby organic wine makers, and Kundalini yoga sessions by request.

The owner, her husband and two children live on site, but have a separate entrance and won't disturb guests. There are resident animals: a dog, a cat, and three chickens.

Around

Located in the north of Corsica, on the Cap Corse in a village just outside of the port of Bastia in the Brando region, the convent is just above the Tyrrhenian coast. The charming fishing port and sandy coves of Erbalunga and Miomo are close by as are the vineyards of Patrimonio to the west and the Gulf of Saint Florent. Ile Rousse Calvi is just over two hour's drive.

There is a beach within 10 minutes drive of the house, and a sandy beach 25 minutes away. The town of Erbalunga is 10 minutes by car and 30 minutes on foot. It's an adorable small fishing port with a variety of restaurants (from pizzeria to one Michelin star), several Corsican restaurants, and local seafood. The owners are happy to share suggestions for beaches, restaurants, road tours and hiking trails, and boat rides can even be arranged.

Bastia, the ferry and a supermarket are all within 20 minutes' drive. There is a bakery, grocery store, and local produce in Pietranera, 15 minutes away.

Location

Corsica, France. Nearest airport: Poretta Airport in Bastia (50 min). Alternates are St. Catherine in Calvi and Figari Sud, each served from mainland France.