L'Orca Di San Gavinu

At 6 a.m., light pours into the attic because there are no shutters or blackout curtains, and the bedroom air conditioner only blows warm air. The living-room unit does cool the house somewhat. We stayed three nights in the “Comfort Suite,” which was really an attic with low ceilings, a problem for someone tall like me. The double bed was noisy and uncomfortable, the thin square pillows didn’t suit me, and the dirty closet doors were crooked. The showerhead bracket was broken, so I had to hold the showerhead while washing. Wi-Fi worked downstairs but didn’t reach the attic. Breakfast was in a shared room and was limited to baguettes with butter and jam, a raisin ring, biscotti, very old beignets, milk, juice, and bad American coffee. Nothing savory, and no croissants or pains su chocolat, which I expected to find in Corsica. The cabin itself was old, poorly kept and not very clean, in a tiny village far from everything, with no amenities. You need a car or motorbike: it’s 15 minutes to a supermarket, gas station and the nearest beaches, 25 minutes to Bonifacio and 35 minutes to Porto-Vecchio. The price felt high for what we got. We made the best of it since we’re young and adventurous, but I wanted to lay out the details so others can choose with their eyes open.

We only wish we’d had more time here. Our downstairs room was really spacious, and the setting felt magical. The kitchen was so big and well equipped that we wished we could have tried a meal at Stéphane's. Being just 15 minutes from Figari airport was a real bonus. Thanks for making us feel welcome. We’d happily return if we get the chance to come back to Corsica.

The host was welcoming, and the attic felt cozy, though you do have to watch your head around the beams. We loved seeing a sky full of stars, the kind you only get in remote places. The house is tucked into the mountains, about half an hour from Bonifacio, and has a lovely mix of comfort and scenery.

The room was a good size, and the host was welcoming. The location also works well, about halfway between Bonifacio and Porto Vecchio. There were several things that needed attention: dust on the floor, water damage that hadn’t been repaired, a broken showerhead and a sunken sofa. Breakfast was described as “generous,” but it was all sweet items and depended on what was available. On our last morning there was no orange juice, just a carafe of tap water instead. For this level of service, the price is too high.