"La Pause Chisà" in Eastern Corsica

A night in a stone sheepfold, in Chisà, in the heart of the Corsican maquis

It is near the village of Chisà, in Eastern Corsica, that Julie and Lionel Giovanni have brought their dream to life through the rehabilitation of an authentic stone sheepfold, and have added other units of the same type with traditional materials, mostly found on site, like stones and wood. Tastefully decorated and well laid out accommodation, open to visitors all year round. An enchanting location in the heart of the Corsican mountains. Breakfast and packed lunch are available on request. Welcome to "La Pause Chisà"!

"La Pause Chisà" lies about twenty minutes from the village of Travu, on a mountain road winding along the river. Night has fallen, but no matter as Julie and Lionel Giovanni give me a warm welcome. I sense nature around me rather than see it, the trees, the mountains, the maquis… then discover with surprise my little house and its surroundings!! Light garlands arranged all over the trees, a Christmas tree on the large wooden terrace, the lit jacuzzi bubbling at 30°, an olive tree carved into the shape of a Bonsai by the expert hands of Lionel, the magic works its effects!

Then it is time to see the interior… The king size bed sits in the middle of the room, with plaids, cushions, carefully selected bed linen, warm colours and very beautiful wooden shelves. A fully equipped corner kitchenette, books and a vintage record player complete the pretty picture. “Decoration is Julie's world, she loves it!" Lionel whispers to me. Also a yoga teacher, Julie tells me that she would like to organise classes for their visitors. What a great idea! The place exudes serenity.

My introduction continues with the bathroom and its stone basins placed on a thick plank of solid wood, itself placed on the foot of an old Singer sewing machine. There are some (very nice) ideas here and they are acted on. The tropical shower directly overlooks the outdoor terrace, which provides a feeling of great tranquillity. With breakfast ordered, Julie and Lionel take their leave. From my bed, facing the large bay window, I watch the show taking place outside: The wind this evening makes the trees dance, the garlands move, creating shadows on the terrace, and the sound of the leaves lulls me towards sleep! Lights out.

The next morning I explore the area. The surrounding countryside is unspoiled and the houses are perfectly integrated. The snow-capped mountains in this month of December fit perfectly with the approaching Christmas holidays. My breakfast arrives in a nice picnic basket: jams, pastries, orange juice, hot drink, scrambled eggs and toast!!! Gargantuan. I devour all this in front of the jacuzzi, already planning for the spring when I will return to Chisà for a break!