Matera, Italy
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita
Atmospheric cave dwelling
Buried deep into the oldest part of the Sassi is the Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita, an ancient cave dwelling that has been turned into a wonderfully atmospheric boutique hotel.
Little was changed during the renovation of the caves and the original shape and materials remain intact. All 18 rooms feature stone floors and walls, each one a different shape depending on the natural curves of the rock. Underfloor heating keeps them cosy in winter while the thick walls ensure they are cool in the hot Italian summers.
Decor is simple so as not to detract from the natural features of the cave; crisp white linen, hand-made pottery and the flicker of candles is all they need to shine. Some of the rooms feature freestanding bath tubs and old troughs that have been turned into sinks.
Breakfast is served in a de-consecrated church from the 13th century and the room is available for private dinners. A chef will prepare a selection of local dishes in this magical setting lit solely by candles. Food all over Italy is a matter of national pride, and produce is sourced from local organic farms.
There is an outdoor courtyard and guests can enjoy a coffee or glass of wine while looking out over the dramatic gorge. When you want to simply relax and unwind, enjoy a spa treatment in the privacy of your own room.
You are ideally placed to explore the city, with the Murgia Park and its rock-hewn churches just opposite the hotel.
Highlights
Cooking classes
Bike rental
Horse riding
Hiking
Bread and cheesemaking classes
18 rooms and suites
Restaurant in 13th-century church
Spa treatments in your room
Trip Inspiration
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Places to combine Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita 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.
