New Year’s Eve in Matera, city of Stones

Arrival in Matera during the day and check-in at the Ecoluxury Retreat Le Grotte della Civita, a cultural project of conservative restoration of 18 caves — some of exceptional size, including a common area in an ancient rupestrian church, 6 rooms in an 18th-century building, and a small artisan workshop.

The entire complex is located in the oldest part of the Sassi, La Civita, overlooking the Gravina gorge and facing the dramatic scenery of the Murgia Park and its rupestrian churches.

Free time for a first walk around the city of the Sassi: we suggest visiting the Tramontano Castle Park, which hosts traditional Christmas markets — a perfect occasion to buy local crafts and typical products. Dinner on your own and overnight stay at the hotel.

In the morning, meet your local guide for a private tour discovering the unique charm of this one-of-a-kind place.

A guided visit of Matera is an emotional journey into the heart of history and stone. It starts in the famous Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where houses carved into the rock climb up the slopes like a living nativity scene. Walking through the winding alleys of Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, you will discover frescoed rock churches and ancient dwellings preserved over time. The guide will share stories of the hard but ingenious life that unfolded here until just a few decades ago, revealing a world suspended between ancient civilization and cultural rebirth.

After the tour, free time to continue exploring this remarkable city. You may visit the Palombaro Lungo, an ancient underground cistern once used for water storage, or simply get lost among the Sassi. Alternatively, after absorbing the historic soul of the city, cross the tibetan bridge of the Gravina and follow one of the panoramic trails leading up to the Murgia Materana. The walk is both accessible and invigorating, leading you to a unique vantage point where Matera reveals its full splendor.

Stay until sunset — when the Sassi glow with golden light, creating a postcard-perfect view.

Evening at leisure: you may enjoy a traditional New Year’s Eve dinner in one of the many local restaurants or celebrate with the locals during the public festivities in the squares. Overnight stay.

After the long New Year’s Eve night, enjoy a leisurely morning.

In the afternoon, we suggest an urban trekking route from Matera to the Belvedere, crossing the tibetan bridge — an exciting experience that blends nature, history, and adventure.

Starting from the heart of the Sassi, you’ll walk along ancient stone-carved paths with breathtaking views over the Gravina canyon. The trail leads to the striking bridge suspended between the two sides, offering spectacular views of the city and its cave dwellings. After crossing, continue toward the Belvedere di Murgia Timone, a panoramic viewpoint ideal for admiring Matera at sunset, when the golden lights illuminate the ancient stone.

Dinner on your own and overnight stay at your hotel.

Breakfast, check-out, and end of services.