Corsica is an island of long, unspoiled sandy beaches, but few are backed by a village with such a delightful ambience as Algajola. By-passed by the coastal highway, its narrow lanes lead past a few easy-going bistros and cafés to the church and the 13th century citadel on the headland.
It is a paradise for wind-surfers and a memorable location for a traditional seaside holiday too, particularly since Monsieur and Madame Martelli opened the Hotel Serenada in 2007. The original accommodation stands just across the lane from the beach and has rooms with above average comfort and sensible prices. The newest additions are the four superior rooms on the first floor above the restaurant, each with a spacious terrace.
As well as the excellent restaurant, there's a delightful bistro for lunch with a sea-front terrace at the southern end of the beach. Fish dishes are the favoured speciality here. Beach loungers are free to hotel guests and the Martellis also have a boat for hire.
The hotel’s three-star status is well deserved: we’re talking smart bathrooms and spacious bedrooms, most of which have a good sea view. Even those without the view are on the seaward side, away from the Calvi - Ponte Leccia tramway that runs behind the hotel a few times a day. This quaint little train stops at almost every beach en route to Calvi and, although popular and extremely uncomfortable, it’s great for shopping and sightseeing if you have no car. One of our favourite hotels on the island.