Sleeping in a cave!
Matera, located in the southern Italian region of Basilicata, is a small enchanting Italian city with an exceptionally beautiful historic center and famous caves, also known as Sassis. The so-called Sassis, which are built into the steep, rocky slopes, have a unique architecture and therefore adorn the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1993. Matera regularly serves as a film set for the international film industry.
In the heart of Matera I find the special Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita. The only hotel in the world located in prehistoric caves! That’s what I call sleeping in style. Authentic accommodation in a city where thousands of caves were used for centuries as dwellings, churches and even palaces.
It took ten years to transform the Sassis into hotel rooms. The 18 rooms all overlook the Gravina River, the mountains or the garden and are decorated with furniture made of ancient wood and stone floors. Air conditioning is provided and the unique bathrooms feature a traditional bathtub. At night, the rooms are atmospherically lit with twinkling candlelight. The fireplace, present in almost every room, is a welcome source of warmth on cool evenings and above all very romantic!
You can dine here in the church! This is carved out of the rocks, equipped with dozens of candles, a fireplace and classical music playing in the background. A sacred space where you can enjoy traditional, local Italian dishes in a minimalist setting. A once in a lifetime experience!
Nothing is better here than regaining the balance between mind and body during a massage in your own cave room. Completely relax in an atmospheric environment with a rich history, perfumed oils and fragrant herbal teas. The rooms are lit only by candlelight….
The National Park ‘Parco della Murgia Materana’ is also worth a visit, see the historic churches in the caves and enjoy a magnificent view over the river Gravina!