Enchanting Basilicata: Nature, Culture & Authentic Italy

1215 €, 5 Days

If you thought the authentic Italy disappeared - then set off to the overlooked mountain region Basilicata, where nature experiences are queuing up to be discovered. Basilicata is "the arch" in the boot country, super exciting, exuberant and its own. Perhaps one of the poorest regions in Italy, but at the same time as full of real culture - nature - history and a fantastic cuisine, rustic and varied - as the rest of the country. But not streamlined. Old-fashioned, but not retro. Retro requires a trip beyond what is in demand, and Basilicata has not been there. This is also why this hike is different. It is short, it is intense, it is - like the region of Basilicata - charming with the small cozy villages located relatively high and thus pleasant even on a summer day.

We set out in the town of Matera; European Capital of Culture in 2019. Chosen among many candidates for its UNESCO-protected neighborhood "Sassi" with cave dwellings that were inhabited until the 50s in the last century – at that time not very romantic. The neighborhood is very hilly and the unique thing is that the facades of the houses are of tuff and the rest carved directly into the rocks. Today, the homes are reopening for artists, restaurants and cafes while maintaining the place's authenticity.

The adventure continues inside the Gallipoli Cognato Park, with its magnificent grassy plateaus from which you can admire the wild walls of the Lucanian Dolomites and live the hamlets of Pietrapertosa and Castelmezzano. The unspoiled nature, the intense light and the views will leave you an enchanting memory of this Basilicata to explore on foot.

Highlights:
♦ Matera di Sassi – UNESCO site since 1993 – magic city in stone and about 130 cave churches.
♦ Pietrapertosa – cozy town (1000m) and the zipline ” Il Vollo Dell’Angelo” – angels flight.
♦ Lucane Dolomites – spectacular mountains, like the Dolomites in the north, but lower.

View Full Itinerary

Itinerary:

Day 1. Arrival Matera

After the arrival to the little town Matera you start an urban trekking with guide in the Sassi district and an UNESCO heritage site and well known from every photo from Basilicata. You will get acquainted with the Baroque city center, the Romanesque churches and the cave civilization. Dinner in a local restaurant in Sassi. Overnight in a hotel or B&B. -/-/D
Walking: 3 hrs.; 4 km, ascent/decent: +200/-200 m

Day 2. Murgia and the Rock churches

This morning the walk will bring you to the Murgia plateau with archeological and naturalistic treasures in the area ”Park of the Rupestrian Churches”. You will pass the Gravina di Matera with stunning views of the area and a beautiful unique hiking trail. Packed lunch in the caves.The afternoon is free for exploring the town. B/-/-
Walking: 5-6 hrs.; 9 km, ascent/decent: +200/-200 m

Day 3. Lucanian Dolomites: Pietrapertosa & Castelmezzano

Morning transfer to Pietrapertosa (approx. 90 minutes), in the Gallipoli Cognato and Lucanian Dolomites Park. We check-in at the B&B and make a short stop at a local shop to buy picnic supplies. Thereafter,we go on a hike from the Saracen fortress of Pietrapertosa, with panoramic views over the Basento Valley, through the historic center and the Mother Church. Descend to the Caperrino stream, cross an old stone bridge, and follow ancient shepherds’ paths toward Castelmezzano. Visit the historic center and enjoy a picnic near the castle.Return to Pietrapertosa along the same route. Overnight in Pietrapertosa. B/- /-

Walking: 4 hrs.; 9 km, ascent/decent: +690/-690 m

Day 4. On the Ridge
Today's hike takes you from Pietrapertosa (1052 m) into a holly wood. You will go down to the Della Rossa stream and then up to the Costa La Rossa ridge (1026 m). From there towards “Monte dell’Impiso” (1295 m) you will hike enjoying a stunning view over the peaks of the park. Return to the village along a path on the ridge. Overnight in Pietrapertosa. B/-/-
Walking: 7 hrs.; 17 km, ascent/decent: +400/-250 m

Day 5. Tour ends
After breakfast the tour is over and the day is open for new experiences in e.g. Pollino National Park, Maratea or some of the cozy small towns in Basilicata. B/-/-

Practical information: ► Arrival Matera by bus or train from Rome, Ancona, Napoli, Bari – Bari is preferable (54 km). ► The train from Bari departs from a small station near to the central station. Look for the sign “Ferrovie Appulo Lucane”. The transport time by the FAL train is about 1,5 hrs. ► Possible to pre-book a private transfer from Bari (not incl.). ► Departure from Potenza (or Matera) by train.Private transfer available on request.

Price Includes:
4 nights in a double room with breakfast
1 dinner
all scheduled transfers and guided excursions from day 1 to day 3
informative material.

Not Included:
Medical / Luggage insurance
tourist taxes
drinks
lunches and 3 dinners
tickets
Volo dell’Angelo
tips
personal extras
everything that doesn’t come under the wording “included services”.

Additional Services:
Single supplement: 198 EUR
Minimum 2 people
The nearest airport: Bari (54 km from Matera). From Bari to Matera by shuttle or FAL train. Private transfer available on request.

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