Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Ajaccio Bay

As one of the few beachfront hotels in the area, Radisson Blu attracts many families and couples seeking a relaxing vacation in a modern environment. The building is a long strip, facing the sea over a busy road on one side, and the parking lot on the other side. Grounds are limited, but indoor and outdoor common areas -- from restaurant and bar terraces to the pool decks -- take advantage of the gorgeous sea views. Inside, the lobby is a large, open space with contemporary decor. Guests coming in from outside have a panoramic view of the sea through a long wall of windows along the back of the room. The rest of the design is attractive, with ocean-blue divans arranged around columns and a few clusters of brown, blue, or sea-foam green sofas forming seating areas. Funky, colorful vases adorn tables throughout the space, some with fresh flowers. Throughout the hotel, an understated, but stylish design makes for appealing spaces, all punctuated by nice amenities and lovely views. 

This hotel is on the beach of a small bay in southwestern Corsica, a 30-minute drive from Ajaccio. There are several restaurants and a supermarket within a five-minute walk of the hotel, but little else to do nearby. It is a seven-minute drive to a busier area of Porticcio -- the nearest town -- where there are several nightclubs and artisan shops. The old town section of Ajaccio offers many restaurants, shops, and museums, plus the port where ferries dock -- all a 35-minute drive from the hotel. The birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte -- a house turned museum -- is a 30-minute drive from the hotel. Ajaccio Airport Napoleon Bonaparte Airport is a 20-minute drive away. 

Standard Rooms are sophisticated and spacious, with a relaxing gray-and-white color scheme, plus pretty sea-blue accents in some rooms. A few black pieces, or sometimes dark blue, in the sitting areas or work desk furnishings stand out among otherwise soft hues. Comfy mattresses and extra pillows make for a good sleep on king-sized beds (or two twins). Family Rooms have bunk beds in the entryways that can be blocked off from the main bedrooms; they're a bit tight on space, but provide privacy. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, minibars, kettles, and safes, as well as furnished balconies or terraces with views over the sea or parking lot. Upgrades include suites with separate living areas, plus nice extras like robes, Nespresso machines, and free spa access. Sleek bathrooms have large walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads. Higher category rooms include whirlpool tubs, heated towel racks, and double sinks. Hairdryers are provided, and free toiletries include soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. 

A wide range of amenities makes this a great pick for a relaxing stay for both families and couples. The on-site restaurant serves good food in a bright, contemporary space or on a lovely terrace overlooking the sea. The breakfast buffet offers a good range of choices, but is not included in the room rate. A la carte and buffet options are available during the day, but guests find it pricey for the area. There’s also a chic bar with a funky, modern look full of bright colors and fun cocktails.  

The infinity pool is gorgeous, lined with black and white loungers and a few umbrellas. There’s a kids’ club with a small pool on a separate terrace, but the main infinity pool still tends to be lively with children, particularly during French holidays. Across the street, the beach is beautiful and quiet, with no sunbeds or amenities drawing the bustle of tourists. A lovely, full-service spa has a small indoor pool, hammam, sauna, and modern fitness center, but use of some of the facilities costs extra. Parking is free, as is Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, although for a limited number of devices.