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Sextantio le Grotte della Civita is housed in the most ancient area of the traditional Sassi of Matera, where guests can step into a serene environment evocative of the generations of Matera’s residents who once occupied these cave dwellings. Today the caves which make up the property have been updated into a boutique hotel. However, the designers have masterfully retained the historic atmosphere of the cave dwellings through the preservation of the rocky, stone structures and careful, minimalist decoration.
In the 18 guest rooms and suites, flat screen TVs and in-room tablets are eschewed in exchange for soft candlelight and antique dark wood furnishings. Each room is unique - they all retain the stone walls of the caves which house them. Many have vaulted ceilings or stone archways and open up out onto the stone stairs and walkways which connect the different areas of the hotel, set over several different levels. Breakfast each morning is a fresh spread of local meats, cheeses, fruits, and pastries. In the evening the breakfast room turns into a bar where you can enjoy an aperitivo before dinner.
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In keeping with the historic design of the property and the faithfulness to the geological structures which house the hotel, each of the 18 rooms in the property is unique. Decoration and embellishment is kept to a minimum. Instead, the natural stone edifices are accented with dark wood furnishings and traditional loom-woven linens. Underground heating ensures the room stays warm despite the setting. While the situation within the caves allows some rooms more sunlight, many rely on soft, romantic candlelight in the evenings, just as they did in many years ago.
Rooms are set over several different layers of the property and open up on to the stone stairways and walkways which connect the different areas of the hotel.
The property is nestled into the caves of the most historic part of the Matera’s Sassi, known as the Civita. The rocky caves here climb up the side of the mountain which overlooks Matera offering remarkable views. The area retains its historic layout complete with stone staircases connecting the various businesses, churches and restaurants nearby.
A traditional Italian breakfast is served in the mornings with cheese, meats, pastries and fresh fruits. In the afternoon you can enjoy an aperitivo in the same room. There is no restaurant within the property itself, however there is an abundance of local restaurants just a short walk away.
For a relaxing, romantic option, we love Sextantio le Grotte della Civita for its characterful adherence to the traditional caves which house it. Spending a night in these traditional dwellings really is a unique and very special experience.
Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favorite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can’t be bettered.
With just four rooms, La Dimora di Metello is truly an intimate boutique property. Well located in the sassi and boasting plenty of characterful design elements, this stylish little property offers friendly service in a unique setting.
La Casa di Lucio is a stylish, boutique property where the character of the local caves is expertly blended with elegant design schemes. The location and the character of the property make this an excellent choice.
This modern, boutique style of Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort offers guests a traditional Matera experience in the heart of the Sassi area of the city, with an updated, luxurious feel. The terrace restaurant is the cherry on top, offering some of the best views out over Matera.
The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you’re staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident’s eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area’s inhabitants.
In southern Italy’s Matera, you can explore cave dwellings and medieval churches in a city cut into the soft volcanic rock of a river canyon. This private half-day tour reveals much about the city's history, its people and the conditions that forced its evacuation.
