Le Moulin Des Vignes

About this property

Overlooked by the Cagna mountains in the secluded heart of south-west Corsica, Le Moulin Des Vignes is for those wanting to experience the true natural beauty and hospitality of this extraordinary island.

Set on a large wine-producing domaine, as soon as you arrive you will realise what a special place this is...trees dripping with pomegranates and olives, intoxicating aromas of eucalyptus and scents from the maquis, Corsica's wild and herbaceous, thick undergrowth.

The history of this little piece of paradise is one full of Corsican passion and devotion – the original wine-maker made his fortunes in Africa in the mid-19th century before travelling back to his beloved island. On his return he created a ‘Grand Jardin’ of vineyards, olive trees and fruit orchards in this secluded spot and locals came to work in what soon became a new hamlet. This prestigious estate successfully produced excellent Corsican wine until the early 20th century.

In the 90s, after many years of neglect, the most recent owners began their passionate restoration of the domaine, lovingly re-planting the vines and olive trees and carefully restoring the historic buildings such as the wine cellar, the old gendarmerie and the school. What they have created is a divine paradise which greatly respects the estate’s heritage.

Le Moulin Des Vignes, formerly the hamlet's old olive mill, is now a characterful 3-bedroom stone villa with superbly styled interiors and wonderful features such as its summer kitchen, al-fresco lounge and its own hammam and relaxation room. With a sense of understated luxury, guests can expect high-quality furnishings in gorgeous rustic surroundings. The private swimming pool and pretty gardens add to the enchanting and natural ambience around you.

A basket of home-made pastries and freshly baked bread will be delivered to you each morning, a shopping service can be provided and a chef can be arranged to cook for you if you wish. The kind and hospitable owners want you to be able to enjoy the seclusion of this exquisite place without having to venture far – they’ll also invite you to tour the highly regarded domaine and sample their award-winning wines and olive oil.  

Yet there is so much of this incredible island to explore! Whether it’s hiking in the magnificent mountains, horse-riding by the sea or swimming in the turquoise seas of south-western Corsica, this is a region of tremendous beauty. One of Corsica’s most idyllic beaches, Plage de Roccapina, is just 14km away whilst the charming village of Sartène can be reached in under half an hour, passing beautiful scenery as you follow the winding roads. The town of Bonifacio is another remarkable day out or simply spend time enjoying leisurely lunches in beachside restaurants at Tizzano or La Tonnara.

Yet despite the many jewels of this island, you can experience the real Corsica from your terrace at Le Moulin Des Vignes with such spectacular sights, scents and scenery around you in this secluded paradise.

Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of south-western Corsica, Le Moulin Des Vignes is part of a prestigious and beautiful wine estate covering a thousand hectares of vineyards, olive groves and maquis-covered countryside with the Cagna Massif looking over you.

There are some wonderful sign-posted trails through the domaine and beyond or find the nearby river to cool down as you explore the incredible landscapes around you in this magnificent setting.

There are a couple of restaurants within a five to ten minute drive whilst the nearest shops and supermarkets are in Pianottoli or Sartène, both around 20 minutes away by car.

Sartène is a destination in itself with its historic old town of winding lanes, traditional restaurants, pretty shops and charming squares. Visit on a Saturday morning to experience the atmospheric Farmer’s market selling amazing local products such as honey, Corsican cheeses, cured meats and other delights (there are also smaller markets on a Tuesday and Thursday from late June to August). Those who are fascinated by Corsica’s pre-historic remains should head to the Musée Départemental de Préhistoire which has recently opened in the town.

You are also close to some of south-west Corsica’s most glorious beaches such as Plage de Roccapina, a stunning beach with fine sand and crystal-clear water, ideal for paddling, swimming and snorkelling. Take a picnic (there are no facilities) and be surrounded by the island’s most breath-taking nature. Follow trails through the maquis to Spiaggia di Erbaju, another idyllic spot by the sea and usually less crowded. 

Of course, there are many more beaches to visit such as the picturesque gulf around Pianotolli and Figari as well as La Tonnara with its watersports (jet-ski, wind-surfing and kite-surfing) or Tizzano and Plage de Campomoro towards Propriano to the north. Local diving schools can take you out to some superb sites around the south-west coastline or boat-trips with a skipper are another way to explore.

Further outdoor activities include hiking, either guided or independent; there are many great trails to suit all abilities including the well-known summit at 'l'Omu di Cagna' which can be reached from Giannuccio (or the most experienced walkers can depart from the domaine). There is also horse-riding nearby with hacks through the mountains and coastline.

The famous town of Bonifacio is ideal for a day out – it’s an exceptional place with the steep citadel built into the limestone cliffs which tumble down to the sea. Discover excellent restaurants in the citadel or by the marina and explore the narrow lanes filled with attractive shops, cafes and bars. You are surrounded by history in Bonifacio as well as incredible vistas of the sea.

Boat trips depart from Bonifacio to the beautiful and remote Lavezzi Islands, another peaceful spot for walking and swimming.

Accommodation

Villa Interiors (200m2, two floors)

-    Open-plan lounge with fireplace, TV, DVD player and music system
-    Open-plan dining area
-    Open-plan kitchen, well-equipped including dishwasher, stove, microwave, fridge-freezer
-    Laundry room
-    Bedroom with double bed (160cm) and en-suite bathroom with separate WC
-    Bedroom with twin beds and en-suite shower room with WC
-    Bedroom with double bed (140cm), fireplace and en-suite shower room with separate WC

Outside Grounds

-    Swimming pool (8x4m, depth: 1.38-1.6m) with safety alarm
-    Summer kitchen with BBQ, al-fresco dining table, dishwasher and fridge
-    Outdoor lounge
-    Hammam, relaxation room with shower
-    Boules court
-    Gardens
-    Table tennis on domaine (shared)
-    Vegetable garden on domaine (for all guests to use, summer only)

Facilities

-    Wi-Fi (via satellite internet)
-    Central heating
-    TV and DVD player
-    Music system
-    Telephone
-    Board games
-    Toys
-    Hammam and relaxation room
-    Boules court
-    Table tennis (shared)
-    Washing machine and dryer