For years, Maratea was one of the most unspoiled seaside villages on Italy's west coast, its pink and white houses clustered on low cliffs above the harbour and its old quarter crammed with interesting buildings, including two medieval churches. In the last decade or so new hotels have been built and restaurants opened, but its essential character remains intact, and this locanda is an example of how past and present can be successfully combined. Originally an old monastery, it has been transformed into an elegant, contemporary hotel.
Deluxe rooms offer king-size beds, oversized bathrooms and lovely views over the roofs of Maratea’s historical centre. The classic and the superior rooms were once dedicated to meditation and prayer. All suites have their own original twists: 'La Vicaria' has a groovy rock-embedded bathroom; 'La Badessa' has a Jacuzzi and a spacious terrace overlooking Maratea. Others have garden views and original features.
The restaurant, Il Sacello, offers culinary delights from the Basilicata region, while Bar L’Alambicco serves light snacks and cocktails that can be enjoyed in the grounds or by the rooftop pool with its view over the town and Maratea's famous Christ.
The flamboyance of the entrance hall gives way to cool modern chic in the bedrooms, each slightly different, but all comfortable with tiled floors and smart Italian-designed furniture and lighting. White drapes hang at the windows, while patterned, red-striped ticking or coloured drapes encircle wrought-iron canopy beds.
Jasmine, bougainvillea and lemon trees grow in the lovely peaceful garden at the front which contains an outdoor pool with a terrace and plenty of sunbeds. The beach is also conveniently close by.


Location: Maratea's historical centre; car parking available

Nearby: Monte San Biagio to visit San Biagio's Church and Maratea's Christ; Rivello, Nemoli and Lagonegro (all 20-30km), and the wonderfully preserved Greek ruins of Paestum (108km), medieval Caracciolo Castle in Brienza (90km), Roman ruins of Grumentum (70km) and the famous charterhouse of Certosa di Padula (60km)

Accommodation Type: Village hotel

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Facilities: wi-fi, sitting room, restaurant, bar, garden, outdoor swimming pool, solarium, patio, fitness room, massage room, beach towels, shuttle service to the beach with complimentary sunbeds and beach umbrellas, newspapers, library, DVD library, game tables

Credit cards: AE, DC, MC, V

Closed: Nov - March

Proprietor or Manager: Loredana Toscano