Matera, Italy
Palazzo Margherita
A historic mansion restored by Francis Ford Coppola
The Palazzo Margherita, built in 1892 in the hilltop town of Bernalda, is a true 19th century palazzo. The town was the birthplace and home to Agostino Coppola, Francis Ford Coppola’s grandfather, who set about restoring the grand building into a small, luxurious Italian boutique hotel so that he could introduce visitors to this stunning and still undiscovered region.
The palazzo has been completely restored with the help of acclaimed French designer Jacques Grange, creating an authentically Italian experience that ushers guests into a private world of sheer comfort, surrounded by baroque gardens and a courtyard, all just steps from a small, bustling town where tourists are a rarity and welcomed as friends. Restored frescos, original marble floors and countless historic details retain their patina and compliment tasteful new additions such as a cinema and swimming pool.
There are just nine unique suites, including one designed Sofia Coppola with a spacious bathroom with a hammam and chromatherapy shower, while others enjoy terraces, balconies or doors opening into the gardens. All are spacious with a full range of modern amenities – such as a gratis bar and modern entertainment system with a digital movie collection specializing in Italian Cinema.
While there is no formal restaurant here, guests can dine at the eat-in kitchen, in the courtyard, garden or in any of the bars. Naturally, food is locally sourced, simply and incredible. There’s also the Cinecittà Bar, a traditional café and pizzeria that spills out onto Bernalda’s main street and looks onto the town square.
There’s plenty to do here, whether borrowing a bike to explore the local area, taking culinary classes or taking the complimentary shuttle to the Palazzo Margherita’s private beach club on the cobalt-blue shores of the Ionian Sea. Local historic sites abound, wine tastings are a delight and visits to local artisans can be arranged.
Highlights
Cooking classes
Tours to nearby historic sites
Wine tasting
Trekking and cycling
Visit local artisans
Nine room and suites
Swimming pool
Screening room and a movie library
Private beach club
Three bars and a choice of dining options
Bicycles to borrow
Trip Inspiration
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Places to combine Palazzo Margherita with
Metsovo
Perched high on the slopes of the Pindus Mountain Range in Greece, at the gateway to Pindus National Park, Grand Forest Metsovo is a secluded sanctuary that invites you to immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, including mist-draped peaks, dense forests and the charming old town of Metsovo. The surrounding national park, a sanctuary of biodiversity, is home to Eurasian brown bears, wolves, wildcats, deer and the Balkan chamois. Over 80 species of birds, including the golden eagle, eastern imperial eagle and lanner falcon, soar above. Venture into the forest’s depths on guided hikes or simply soak in the view from the hotel’s panoramic terraces.
The suites at Grand Forest Metsovo are designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, offering sumptuous interiors, warm wooden accents and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the ever-changing mountain vistas. Overlooking the vast mountain expanse, the restaurant Metsovo 1350m presents a contemporary interpretation of Epirus’ rich culinary traditions. Savour locally sourced ingredients transformed into exquisite dishes. Meanwhile, the lobby provides a more relaxed setting, where you can enjoy light meals, fine wines and expertly crafted cocktails beside the fireplace. The 24-hour gym features state-of-the-art Cybex equipment, ensuring an invigorating workout with spectacular views. Children will enjoy the kid’s club, a dedicated space filled with toys, creative play areas and board games.
For those seeking the ultimate in relaxation, the Aspen Spa is an invitation to reconnect with both body and mind. Inspired by the resilient Aspen tree, known for its smooth white bark and shimmering leaves, the spa embodies a philosophy of strength, renewal and harmony. In this tranquil space, indulge in rejuvenating treatments, unwind in the soothing indoor pool, or immerse yourself in the invigorating warmth of the sauna and Turkish bath. Beyond the spa, soak in the crisp mountain air while floating in the hotel’s stunning outdoor infinity pool, where the horizon stretches endlessly over the peaks. The indoor pool offers a more sheltered sanctuary, its warm waters reflecting the ethereal beauty of the mountains beyond.
