Maratea is designated one of Italys most beautiful villagesa Rome-based writer journeys there and finds out why.
Laura Itzkowitz/Travel + Leisure
Why on earth would anyone come here?
For a moment, a wave of doubt washed over me.
The lush and rocky shore along the beach at the Santavenere hotel in Maratea, Italy.Credit:Laura Itzkowitz/Travel + Leisure
Had I stumbled in my endless quest to find Italys mostunder-the-radar hidden gems?
Alessandro Amodio/Courtesy of Santavenere
As soon as we crossed the threshold ofSantavenere, though, my fears were allayed.
At the reception desk, a trio of friendly ladies greeted us warmly.
The Italian inspired costal and nautical decor inside the Santavenere hotel in Maratea, Italy.Alessandro Amodio/Courtesy of Santavenere
To our delight, it had a terrace with the same enchanting view we were admiring in the lobby.
Barletta tapped Melpignano to manage Santavenere and transform it into one of southern Italys best hotels.
His efforts are paying off.
Scenic views from the Sea View Deluxe guest room’s terrace at the Santavenere hotel in Maratea, Italy.Alessandro Amodio/Courtesy of Santavenere
I hadnt realized the hotel has a private beach.
The cicadas buzzed as we descended to the pebbly beach.
We were the first to claim two plush sunbeds close to the shore.
Sun beds are set up at the Santavenere hotel to enjoy the view and sea.Laura Itzkowitz/Travel + Leisure
Basilicata remains relatively off the beaten path, which adds to its charm.
But first, we ducked into the Basilica of San Biagio, the towns patron saint.
The main altar was replete with gold and silver iconography, but we were fascinated by a humbler display.
Lounge chairs set up around the pool at the Santavenere hotel in Maratea, Italy.Laura Itzkowitz/Travel + Leisure
Outside the church, we took in the sweeping views of the mountains surrounding the town.
Licasale explained that the little buildings dotting the mountains are monasteries established by hermits during the Middle Ages.
Now, those who crave solitude and a physical challenge can try thevia ferrataclimbing routes in these peaks.
Aerial scenic view of Maratea’s Centro Storico, seen from the Monte San Biagio.Laura Itzkowitz/Travel + Leisure
Finally, we crossed the walkway leading to the statue of Christ the Redeemer.
Before heading down into the center of town, Marco asked to go back inside the church.
He had made a knot out of a paper bag and wanted to leave it as an offering.
Statue of Christ the Redeemer by Bruno Innocenti in Maratea on the top of St. Biagio mountain.Laura Itzkowitz/Travel + Leisure
We returned to find a table set up with flowers and candles on a terrace near Gli Ulivi.
As we savored a gourmet three-course dinner, we reflected on our brief time in this under-the-radar coastal paradise.
I hope it stays this charming and laid-back forever.
Colorful buildings and shops along Corso Garibaldi in Maratea.Laura Itzkowitz/Travel + Leisure
