An Authentic Luxury Journey Through Puglia and Basilicata: Discover Matera, Salento and the Itria Valley
There’s a side of Southern Italy that reveals itself slowly — a land of ancient silence, timeless beauty, and heartfelt hospitality. Our exclusive itinerary through Basilicata and Puglia is designed for travelers who seek authenticity, elegance, and unique experiences. From the mystical charm of Matera to the sun-soaked coastlines of the Salento, and the serene countryside of the Itria Valley, this journey is a celebration of Italy’s most soulful regions.
To elevate the experience, we’ve selected a curated list of 5-star boutique hotels—refined properties that share our vision of luxury rooted in tradition and place.
Matera: The Timeless City of Stone
Our journey begins in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The iconic Sassi — ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone — tell stories of resilience and beauty. Staying here is a truly immersive experience: cave suites, candlelit dinners, and panoramic views of the Murgia plateau invite travelers to slow down and connect with the soul of Southern Italy.
Salento: Mediterranean Light and Luxury
Heading south, the Salento peninsula offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and style. Whitewashed villages, centuries-old olive trees, and turquoise waters frame a landscape rich in traditions and flavors. To explore this region in comfort and sophistication, we recommend staying in one of our partner luxury boutique hotels in Salento:
- La Fiermontina – Luxury Home (Lecce): An elegant retreat in Lecce’s historic center, where contemporary art and Baroque architecture blend seamlessly.
- Masseria Secolario (Palmariggi – Otranto): A restored historic estate in the heart of Salento’s countryside, offering understated luxury and deep connection with the land.
- Patria Palace (Lecce): A landmark 5-star hotel in front of the Basilica of Santa Croce, offering refined interiors and exceptional hospitality.
- Donna Menga (Nardò – Lecce): A new luxury destination in Lecce, where design, heritage, and personalized service define an exclusive travel experience.
Itria Valley: Rural Elegance and Refined Simplicity
Continuing north, the journey reaches the Itria Valley, a land of trulli, vineyards, rolling hills and charming villages like Locorotondo, Martina Franca, and Cisternino. Here, the luxury is in the details: the light, the silence, the scent of the land after rain. Our top recommendations for a high-end stay include:
- Torre Coccaro (Savelletri): A fortified 16th-century masseria turned luxury resort, with a gourmet restaurant and spa surrounded by olive groves.
- Torre Maizza – Rocco Forte Hotels (Savelletri): Where international elegance meets Apulian authenticity in a 5-star setting.
- Masseria Calderisi (Savelletri): A historic masseria offering stylish design, wellness, and exceptional hospitality just minutes from the sea.
- Borgo Egnazia (Savelletri): A world-renowned icon of Apulian luxury, where traditional architecture and top-tier service create an unforgettable stay.
More Than a Journey — A Way of Experiencing the South
This isn’t just a travel itinerary: it’s a curated journey that honors beauty, culture, and meaningful connections. At Matera Collection, we believe that true luxury lies in authenticity, and we choose to partner only with hotels that share our values: attention to detail, respect for heritage, and a deep love for the land.
Whether you’re planning your honeymoon, a romantic escape, or a cultural adventure, let us guide you through the most authentic and exclusive experiences in Southern Italy.
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Authentic experiences. Extraordinary places. Hospitality with soul.
