Historic is often overused as a description but at the recently renovated A Casa Reale you are following in the footsteps of Napoleon, Gustave Flaubert and some of the most famous nobles in French history – even the piano in the vast salon was a gift to Belgium’s King Leopold. Built in 1700, it was once part of the exclusive Hotel de l’Europe before that closed and fell into disrepair. Now the second floor has been lovingly restored into an upmarket, four-bedroom B&B overlooking the (yes, historic again) port of Bastia. The emphasis is on modern comforts but the building’s heritage is everywhere – the curated antiques, the 18th Century stuccoes and ironwork, the portraits of illustrious residents and the renovated flooring.
The rooms are enormous, with views over the market square or the port, and furnished with an eye to character and homeliness. There’s a cute breakfast terrace overlooking the sea and a huge sofa-filled living room complete with library – and that piano. It’s the ideal place to relax and unwind after a hard day’s exploring among the sights and smells of old Bastia. And a great location to make your own little piece of history.
Highs
- The location is exceptional – the whole of Bastia and its markets and sights are within walking distance
- Service is second to none – owner Rose has received glowing reviews from former guests, and the guesthouse can order everything from massages to romantic dinners in your room
- A palpable sense of history in the characterful interiors with their paintings, antiques and old maps
- It’s well worth spending an hour or two in the library, which is filled with books about the building and its famous guests
Lows
- Situated on the second floor so there’s no pool
- And no beaches within easy walking distance
- Children are welcome – even babysitting services are provided – but it’s probably best for very small or slightly older kids. Rampaging toddlers and antiques do not go together
- Not great for those with mobility issues as there's no lift and a lot of stairs
Best time to go
July and August are when the temperatures are at their highest, and it's peak season so it can get very busy. Walkers and those looking for a more relaxed visit should probably consider May, June and September when the temperatures are more pleasant and the worst of the crowds have left.
Our top tips
A day trip to the medieval town of Saint Florent (about 20km away) is highly recommended. It has its own old town, port, citadel as well as beaches and wineries. You can go swimming, snorkelling, paddle boarding and even take horse-riding tours.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 1 independent review from i-escape guests
We had a wonderful and much needed holiday at A Casa Reale. From the moment we arrived, Emma was on hand to meet us at the property, show us around and provide tips and recommendations for local restaurants and places to visit. We arrived earlier than check in but our room was already for us. And what a room (yellow room), huge, with gorgeous antique furniture, and a view out to the sea. It was also highly functional - enough space for all our clothes, a mini fridge to stash items from the many delis and gorgeous foodie shops close by, a huge and comfortable bed, and a modern and bright bathroom with a decadent tub. Another highlight was the fabulous breakfasts, all homemade, and with so much choice (Thanks Jeremy!). Above all, Emma was a wonderful host and nothing was too much trouble. Being out of season we had the Casa largely to ourselves for the most part and at Emma's urging to make it our own, we felt like royalty in our own private villa. We had cheese boards and aperitifs on the terrace, and sunk into the large sofa in the spacious main salon to read books and magazines. We loved Bastia, the laid back and friendly people, the stunning scenery, and the great shops! - this is an place that excels at quiet confidence. At one point all the ports and airports were closed due to a strike, and we fantasised about having to stay a few more days...alas that was not the case, the strike was speedily resolved, but we left after our week, feeling thoroughly looked after and energised.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape