Le Dimore dell'Idris

We arrived on a cold, especially rainy day, and found there was no way to heat the cave, which made things less pleasant. Still, staying in a real cave in Sasso is a unique experience, and the hotel is right in the heart of Sasso Caveoso. The location couldn't be better.

The view across the city was spectacular, but too many details let the stay down. Our driver from Parking Nicoletti was openly rude, which made for a bad start. We had a spacious duplex room above reception, but the extra bed was an awful, very low dismantled armchair, suitable only for weights of 25.30 kilos. When we raised the issue, we were told, “You’ll have to combine it,” and no fix was offered. Breakfast wasn't a buffet. You had to ask for everything, which felt awkward. The private Room-terrace was dirty and full of insects at night, so we couldn't use it. The place looks charming, but service, comfort, and maintenance were seriously lacking.

Full moon over Matera, and a great full-service breakfast to start the day. The rooms were comfortable and spacious.

Breakfast was fresh and delicious, one of the best I've had. The staff were accommodating and helpful, and gave me a map marked with the must-see spots. My Sasso room was beautiful and comfortable, with its own hammam, right beneath the beautiful rock church Madonna del Idris. The hotel sits between Matera's two Sassi districts, right off a main road, so it's easy to find without climbing too many steps. I had a five-star stay and highly recommend it.