Visit Couvent Saint Francois
The gardens of the Couvent of Saint Francois are on the island of Corsica near to the village of Oletta in the north of Corsica near to Bastia and the Cap Corse Peninsula.
Explore the gardens of the Couvent Saint Francois
The gardens of the Convent Sanfrancescu were voted the favourite garden on Corsica in 2013 in a competition run by the France 2 television chanel (Le Jardin Préféré des Francais 2013).
The convent offers magnificent views over the surrounding mountains and the beautiful village of Oletta. Surrounding a 13th century convent which has been lovingly restored by its owner the artist and painter Candida Romero the gardens have been designed sympathetically with the convents religious and cultural heritage.
The gardens were designed by Candida in partnership with garden designer Armand de Foucault.
The gardens have an Italian influence in keeping with the influence of past invadors of the island of Corsica. There is a Renaissance Garden with a fountain, a Monk's Garden and a romantic Garden of Ruins.
There are around 800 different species of plant, many of them of mediterranean origin and many palms, olive trees and citrus trees. Colour is also provided by a collection of roses and of tulips.
The owners have also created a perfume and beauty products inspired by the scents of the garden and the native plants. The convent is also a Chambre d'hôtes - perfect for garden and art lovers.
Garden visits to the Couvent de Saint Francois
The convent is a chambre d'hote and a place of work for Candida and her mother Simone Dat who is also a painter. However garden visits are possible for the 'Journées Patrimoine' which take place the third week-end of September each year. Visits cost 10 euros.
Address: Couvent Saint Francois, Route d'Arbori, 20160 Vico
All photos of the convent gardens were provided courtesy of Patrick Smith
Gardens to visit nearby
As far as we know there are no other gardens to visit in Corsica. But don't worry the hills are covered in a glorious array of cistus bushes, wild herbs, lavender, juniper, laurel, heather and lots of flowering plants and the scent is incredible too.
You can find more local travel ideas in the South East France guide,
Photos of Couvent Saint Francois
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