Exciting news from the Mediterranean. The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Ajaccio Bay has just opened on the isle of Corsica. This resort debut is the island’s most hotly anticipated tourism development of 2012, as officials explained to Luxury Travel Advisor during the March Rendez-vous en France trade show in Paris. Seaside real estate is hard to come by on this drop-dead-gorgeous island, all the more reason that the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is toasting the newest hotel in its rapidly expanding portfolio. (Carlson Rezidor has an impressive collection of properties in France in major cities like Paris, Marseille, Nice and Lyon; resort locations like the French Alps and Disneyland Paris; and key airports.)
On a trip to the “Isle of Beauty” earlier in June, Luxury Travel Advisor scoped out the resort site (outside only) before its official opening date. The Radisson Blu commands a prime position on Ajaccio Bay across the water from the vibrant city (famous as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte). Access to the white sands of Agosta Beach, within a stone’s throw of the coveted vacation destination of Porticcio, is directly across the road. The Ajaccio International Airport is just 15 kilometers away.
Designed in a contemporary, minimalist style, the resort has 170 guest rooms with private, furnished balconies overlooking the sea or the maquis (the island's fragrant Mediterranean vegetation). There are various dining options, including a chic pool bar, and the 900-square-meter spa has an indoor pool, fitness center, sauna, hammam, and Jacuzzi. Meetings and catered events are hosted in seven sea-facing meeting rooms, four of which can be configured into a conference area accommodating 250 people. Events can also take place on the outside terrace overlooking the turquoise sea.
Recreational activities aren’t limited to beach lounging and swimming in the heated outdoor pool. Along with its postcard-perfect beaches, Corsica is famous for its rugged mountain landscapes and hiking trails. For those tempted to explore the island, car rentals are available on site.
A tip for planning your Corsica vacation: We recommend visiting the Isle of Beauty in the late spring or early fall, when the temperatures are glorious, but the high season crowds aren't partaking in their summer vacations.
The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Ajaccio Bay, Corsica is helmed by General Manager Thierry Zilliox. For more information, visit www.radissonblu.com/resort-ajacciobay