There’s something curiously appealing about staying overnight in a hotel built into an ancient cave. In Imma Tataranni’s Matera, many of the cozy and luxurious mountainside hotels seem to be perfect for a lovers getaway. The top accommodations are often equipped with bedside bath tubs or jacuzzis, fireplaces, and candlelight. I tried staying by myself on a solo research trip and it just felt wrong to be in such a gorgeous and romantic place all alone. The novelty of sleeping in a cave could also be interesting for families traveling with kids. The panoramic views from these hotels cannot be beat. In the “City of Sassi”, you’ll find a range of 4 and 5-star hotels at affordable prices, especially in fall and wintertime. Matera is a beautiful place to visit any time of year, including around the holidays and beginning of the New Year when the breathtaking city and its wild surroundings are kissed with fresh snow.

The best of the best. Sextantio was already well-known for its original hotel in Abruzzo when it opened up the Grotte della Civita location in the oldest part of the Sassi. It sits right along the canyon, facing the spectacular Murgia park and white tuff stone cliffs. It’s worth the splurge even during the high season. Sextantio’s bountiful breakfast spread is incredible and they offer in-room service for aperitivo or meals upon request.

This renovated noble palace, originally owned by the Malvini Melvezzi family from Bologna, offers double rooms and suites that include your own private terrace, in-suite hot tubs, pools and luxurious massage and reiki spa services. It’s located near the Matera Cathedral and can be a convenient base for exploring the majestic city center on foot.

Owners, Anna Calia and Nicola Ruscigno purchased this property in 1999 and went on to expand into an ancient courtyard to create the Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort. Their family-run hotel includes the prestigious Regia Corte restaurant where guests can dine on upscale regional Lucanian fare and taste local wines or enjoy an aperitivo on the Lounge Terrace. Use the promotional code santangelo2021 to get an extra 5% discount on your stay.

For those travelers not ready to fully dive into one of the city’s famed luxury accommodations, this charming Bed and Breakfast can be a great option for a more affordable stay. Their panoramic terrace, views of the ancient settlements, its central location and quaint rooms with frescoed walls are really all you need for a night or two in Matera. The owners, Mimmo and Tiziana, created this rocky refuge in the heart of the historic center in 2011, and have been working hands-on to ensure a pleasant stay at La Corte dei Pastori.

We’ve saved the most exciting one for last, even though this 5-star hotel is not located within the city of Matera. Palazzo Margherita is a great option for those wanting to visit Matera on a day trip. Located in the town of Bernalda, 40-minutes out of town, Palazzo Margherita is owned by cinematic royalty, Francis Ford Coppola. This 19th century palazzo was built in 1892 by the Margherita family, in the birthplace of Agostino Coppola, Francis Ford Coppola’s grandfather. In the early 2000’s, with the help of the highly acclaimed French designer Jacques Grange, they transformed it into the small, luxurious Italian boutique hotel you see today. From here, you can reach the sandy beaches of the Ionian Sea and the Metaponto Nature Reserve in less than 20 minutes.