Calvi, the perfect short haul escape

I travelled to Corsica with my son and his grandparents in July for a cheeky week in the sun. I did have to juggle work and pleasure, so my requirements for a break were: - Short flight - Short transfer - Pool - Wifi - Walkable to restaurants - Good wine

We found the perfect break which matched all the criteria, plus was walkable to the beach and had a local train running to Ile Rousse so great for days out!

Calvi is an intriguing city, with a thirteenth century fortress which towers over the sea, a promenade of restaurants on the waterfront, and tempting boutique shops. We ate most evenings in town, indulged in a 20 euro local menu with local pates, fish, pasta and meat dishes. Not the usual tourist menu, but excellent quality local food. We found a delightful wine shop, which tripled as a wine bar and restaurant. Quite a few evenings started off with a bottle of something lovely consumed at little tables on the street.

We walked between the forest and the beach, along La Pinede, dipping into the warm sea and some beach bars when we needed refreshment. You could quite happily hire a bed for the day at one of these classy establishments, and you only have to wave your little flag when you need further libations! For a change of scenery, we caught the train to Ile Rousse to stroll around the market, watch the crashing waves, and enjoyed a boulangerie café style lunch. Rather than getting the train straight back, we hopped off the train at Aregno Plage, and walked along the sand to Algajola. The pretty town was the perfect place for an ice cream before getting back on the train to Calvi.

We travelled with Corsican Places who run a weekly charter flight to Calvi. Hotel Regina is situated up a steep hill about 10 mins from restaurants and bars. It is 4 star, with a pool, good continental breakfast and the friendliest staff on the planet.

Top tip: Casa Vinu