Hotel of the Day: Vetera Matera, Italy

Located in one of Italy's oldest inhabited cities, we find the Vetera Matera hotel, offering 5-star luxury to every guest. Its unique architecture reflects its location within the UNESCO World Heritage Site in which it resides. Surrounded by cave dwellings and carved rock, Vetera Matera feels like a whole other world when compared to hotels in thriving urban cities like Milan. This hotel effortlessly combines historic charm with urban comfort, with its 23 rooms offering a unique escape. 

Carved to perfection: Vetera Matera

Choose from suites with panoramic views or sparsely but tastefully decorated stone-walled rooms. Relax in the pool and spa, or choose from diverse and varied dining options, with the city right on your doorstep. How you spend your time here is completely up to you. But personally, there's no better way than to take advantage of everything this hotel has to offer. And what it does have to offer is truly unparalleled.

Although a small, boutique hotel, Vetera Matera simulates the familiar feeling of a luxury branded hotel. It does this by invoking feelings of comfort and safety from the second you arrive to the second you leave. Although somewhat of a hidden gem compared to its big city counterparts, Vetera Matera will stay in your mind for weeks after you leave. It's hard to imagine a hotel that gives off the feelings that this place does, which is why we recommend experiencing it for yourself. 

Room Types

Across the 23 rooms and suites, you'll find a whole load of luxury and rustic charm. Vetera Matera's rooms are scattered across and wind through the caves of Matera. What you can expect from each room and suite is a sense of comfort, style and welcoming atmosphere you likely haven't felt before. Classic rooms feature rustic stone walls, with comfortable beds and spacious floors, while the suites are even more luxurious. 

The Junior Suite is a step up from the classic, with panoramic balcony views and more space. The Master Suites simulate the feeling of having your own luxury apartment, with stairs, balconies and even your own private pool. With so many room options available to you, it's hard to choose what to go for. Think about what you prioritise most. Is it the private oasis and apartment-style of the Master suites? Or is it the classic comfort and charm that you get from the classic rooms and Junior suites? 

Facilities and Amenities

Now we come to the hotel's amenities. Brace yourself, as this is a long list. Do you visit the outdoor terrace or the indoor restaurant and bar first? Or do you soak in the depths of the heated pool and fine-tune your wellbeing at the spa? Perhaps you want to experience the steam room or Finnish sauna too? With such a large range of amenities and facilities at your fingertips, your schedule might feel a little in disarray. 

Not to worry, as the second you head to the spa, all the worries and stresses of the outside world will disappear. From the rooms and suites to the spa and outdoor relaxation area, this hotel puts wellbeing and rejuvenation at its forefront. 

Dining

The main restaurant, Artema, offers a fine-dining experience against an ancient stone backdrop. Across two tasting menus, the expertise of decorated chef Eduardo Estatico is appreciated. Mediterranean flavours combine with contemporary elegance to bring you an unparalleled tasting experience. Immerse yourself in the very best of Italy's fine dining scene, with dishes that have been carefully plated to invoke the feeling of luxury right from the off. 

For more casual dining options, check out the Panoramic Terrace, Lounge Bar and Outdoor Bar, or lose yourself in the Wine Cellar. Dine in style at Lounge Bar, or enjoy a full buffet-style breakfast made fresh each morning. No matter your favourite meal of the day, each dish you are served is designed to be savoured until the very last bite.

Experiences and Activities

From the perfect spa day package to historic walking tours around Matera, this hotel keeps every guest in mind. Its carefully curated selection of experiences adds an even more memorable touch to your stay. Explore the nearby Sassi caves, or partake in a cooking or craft class. 

For something a bit more active and adventurous, try horse riding on the beach, a jazz evening, or an exciting hot air balloon experience. These excursions are designed to help you truly appreciate everything Matera and its surroundings have to offer. From interesting art tours to National Park visits, there's something for everyone here.

Who It’s Best For

The best thing about this hotel is that it really is suited to everyone. Solo travellers can enjoy the spa packages, craft classes and Matera city tours. Both business travellers and couples will appreciate the event space the hotel offers. Enjoy a wedding, gathering or work party in the spacious courtyard. 

Meanwhile, children and teenagers can try their hand at crafts, horseriding or hiking. We mean it when we say that this hotel has been built for every type of guest to enjoy. The best part is, you can define your experience however you desire, whether that's a spontaneous holiday, weekend away or family wedding. 

Sustainability

If you weren't already sold, you will be once you hear about this hotel's sustainable practices. Each room is carefully created with preservation of the ancient stone in mind, and features locally sourced amenities. The food menu is committed to zero waste and uses local produce and ingredients. 

The idea of well-being and rejuvenation is also a big part of the hotel experience. The hotel also promotes sustainable and responsible tourism and focuses strongly on a sense of community among its staff and guests. The staff here are knowledgeable and skilled, and know everything about Matera and its ancient roots.

Unique Selling Points

This hotel's unique location, sustainable practices, and its range of experiences give it the edge over its competitors. Its hidden gem reputation and commitment to upholding local history help it stand out. Whether through specialist spa treatments or expertly curated food menus, Vetera Matera sure knows a thing or two about originality. Being a boutique hotel in one of Italy's oldest cities also gives it a unique edge. Let's discover more about what this hotel's unique selling points are:

Its design: Carefully and mindfully formed from the ancient limestone of Matera, the hotel’s design is certainly unique. Ditch the classic painted white walls and contemporary picture frames in favour of the Sassi caves and their unique formations. It’s also a scatter hotel, meaning that it is spread out across various dwellings around the city. 

Its experiences: Whether you want to experience something more adventurous or want to sit and learn about local crafting, you can do both here. Visit the nearby national parks or art museum, or take a walking tour around the city. Immerse yourself in local culture and history from the second you arrive to the second you leave. That's what makes this hotel so unique. Its approach to keeping guests happy and encouraging wellbeing through its spa packages also gives it the edge. 

Its dining options: From fine-dining dinner menus to laid-back buffet-style breakfasts, there are dining options aplenty. The master chef at Artema ensures every guest is fully immersed in the culinary delights. Plus, whether you want a full sit-down meal or a casual drink on the terrace, how you spend your time is up to you. The use of locally sourced produce and zero-waste practices helps this hotel stand out in the culinary community.

Its location: Matera is one of Italy's oldest cities and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's also one of the oldest continuously inhabited dwellings in the world. Vetera Matera has certainly used this to its advantage within its design elements and local experiences. Instead of the quintessential branded hotel chain you'd find in Milan or Rome, this hotel offers something a bit different. Rooted in both culture and history, Matera is a world-class location that should be appreciated for all its worth. 

Its sustainability: Vetera Matera's sustainable practices and commitment to responsible tourism is another unique selling point. With zero waste management, locally sourced products and produce, and a strong focus on wellbeing, it's easy to see. The rooms and hotel has repurposed the stone and cave dwellings into a small but world-class boutique hotel. While it may be small, its passion for sustainability shines through in every aspect.