Grand Hôtel de Cala Rossa & Spa NUCCA

Built in the 1960s, this Relais & Chateaux property is situated in a grand, gated estate, right on the beach. The surrounding pine forests only enhance that away-from-it-all vibe. The atmosphere throughout is casual, laid-back, and relaxed, yet the hotel itself is elegant and sophisticated. In fact, things here can be a bit old school in that men must wear long pants to the dining facilities in the evening. The style throughout is simple, but modern -- far fresher than many of the other hotels in the Cala Rossa area, actually. Cushioned benches with lots of pillows provide places for guests to take a seat in the lobby, but there are plenty of other places to gather throughout the hotel. Stone pathways lined with verdant greenery and flowers, while terraces and the restaurant all make the case for lingering for long stretches of time. It a quiet place with the sounds of the sea and the wind. It's most popular with couples on vacation, but families also come here to make use of the spacious rooms. Keep in mind that the hotel is closed from late fall until early spring.

This hotel is situated in a secluded cove overlooking the ocean near beautiful Cala Rossa beach. It is in a quiet residential area right next to the beach and surrounded by hills, about a 15-minute drive outside the ritzy town of Porto-Vecchio. It is on a dead-end street, which adds to the sense of privacy found here. Unfortunately, the hotel does not offer any transportation, so most guests find they need a rental car if they want to venture out and explore the area. The closest airport to the hotel is Figari Sud-Corse Airport, located a 40-minute drive southwest.  

Rooms are modern and fresh, with simple decor that features hardwood floors, white bed linens, sand-colored walls trimmed in white, dark wood furniture, and linen-colored drapery. Amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, minibars, safes, and free Wi-Fi. It's worth noting that Standard Rooms are on the small side and lack balconies or terraces, but all others have furnished balconies or terraces. Some balconies offer glimpses of the sea and mountains through the trees. Tiled bathrooms are attractive and well-equipped with hairdryers, premium toiletries, scales, and magnifying mirrors. Some have shower/tub combos, while others have separate soaking tubs and walk-in showers. Robes and slippers are available in higher-category units. Junior Suites add sitting areas with sofas and small desks. Family Rooms include children's bedrooms with bunk beds. For travelers seeking a bit of romance, the terrace of the Tree House has a direct view of the sea and might be worth the upgrade. 

This hotel provides a number of popular features and its restaurant just might lead the list. La Table serves inventive Mediterranean cuisine for breakfast and dinner, with many of the ingredients provided by the hotel's own kitchen garden. It's quite popular with previous guests, and has an elegant dining room. Guests can dine indoors or outside on the terrace under the trees, but keep in mind that the evenings come with dress codes. The bar is a cozy space with orange and red leather tub chairs and ottomans, plus cushy bench seating with lots of pillows. Large windows look out to the beautiful gardens, and there's a terrace as well. 

In the summer, Les Terrasses serves drinks and light fare by the beach. Lounge chairs topped by umbrellas are lined up on the wooden deck overlooking the water, and dining tables and chairs are available as well. Views of the water and surrounding mountains are stunning. The hotel's beautiful beach area is private, with cushioned lounge chairs shaded by straw umbrellas. A pier juts out over the water, and guests also can lounge on a wooden deck positioned on the side of the hill. Active guests can water ski, sail, and go wind-surfing, canoeing, or kayaking. Fees may apply for some water sports. The hotel's boat, Anna, takes guests on free water excursions. 

The Japanese-inspired Spa by Nucca offers massage treatments, a whirlpool,  a tea room with relaxation space, and a large indoor pool. The bright, airy fitness center offers cardio and weight-training equipment, plus free weights and exercise balls. Water and towels are provided. Yoga and stretching classes are also offered, as are water fitness classes. 

Free parking is available on-site, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. There are no area shuttles provided.