Basilicata
Basilicata is truly a standout in the southern Italian landscape. It’s a region that breaks away from the typical Italian tourist trails, offering an experience that feels authentic and genuine. It’s a part of Italy that’s still raw and unspoiled, and the pace of life is refreshingly slow.
Starting with Matera, the city of stones, it’s a place that truly transports you, making you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet, if not back in time. The Sassi, those ancient cave dwellings, are like living pieces of history, now transformed into cozy hotels and eateries that seamlessly blend the ancient and modern, creating a magical atmosphere.
And when it comes to the food, Matera doesn’t disappoint. You’ll find hearty, soulful Italian comfort cuisine, from the local Lucanica sausage to the unique Peperone Crusco – simple dishes that burst with flavor.
But Basilicata isn’t just about Matera. It’s about hidden mountain villages like Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, where you can fly between peaks on the “Flight of the Angel” zip line, a thrill-seeker’s dream. It’s about the untamed beauty of the Pollino National Park, a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts.