Mysteries of Matera (May 2023)

Matera, Province of Matera, Italy

SB
Sierra Busch
  • Email address verified
8 reviews
May 28 - 31, 2023
Group size: 5 - 7
Mysteries of Matera (May 2023)
Matera, Province of Matera, Italy

Sierra Busch
  • Email address verified
8 reviews

May 28 - 31, 2023
Group size: 5 - 7

About this trip

In Matera, you’ll swap neat city blocks for a maze of cave homes. These ancient dwellings carved into limestone have been continuously lived in for 9000 years, save a short period in the 1950’s when it was so impoverished that it became known as the “shame of Italy” and it’s inhabitants were evicted. As you wander Matera's hypnotizing streets, you can feel the ancient history hidden in every stone. Together, we'll unearth those mysteries and celebrate this amazing village which is not only an UNESCO World Heritage Site but also the 2019 European Capital of Culture! 


This is an exclusive opportunity for just 5 - 7 participants - grab your spot now!


Please note, we require at least 5 confirmed guests to run this trip. In the event that minimum requirements are not met within 2 months of the trip start date, you will have the choice to receive a full refund of your trip cost or credit applied to another trip within the next year. Flight costs and other costs outside of the trip itself would need to be reimbursed by the travel insurance which you are required to purchase.


Meet Your Trip Leader

Ciao! My name is Sierra and I'm the founder of Creative Edge Travel and the leader for your trip in Apulia! I fell hard for Italy in 2011 and have never stopped exploring its many regions since. From the tall mountains in the north to the sunny heel of the boot in the south, I scoured maps for Italy's hidden secrets, connecting with locals and soaking up the authentic everyday life along the way. This passion led to a career in travel in NYC, where I worked for top agencies and startups, planning luxury vacations for VIP clients. Now living half the year in Italy, my goal is to bring my guests meaningful travel experiences that will forever connect them to the genuine spirit of Italy.

What’s included

  • Transportation
    Arrival and Departure transfers + driver for activities
  • 3 nights accommodation
    Private room located in the historic center
  • Experiences
    All activities & workshops
  • Trip Leader
    24/7, English and Italian-speaking trip leader
  • Flight-Booking Assist
    Our flight expert will help you find the best routes and price, at no extra cost.
  • Meals Included:
    All breakfasts, 1 aperitivo, & 1 farewell dinner, including wine
  • Pre-Trip Prep
    Cultural and Italian language guidance, packing tips, and additional resources to fully connect you with what you'll experience!
  • Tips
    for guides and drivers
  • Carbon Footprint Offset
  • Local Recommendations
    Insider suggestions in each location

What’s not included

  • Flights
  • Incidental expenses
  • Travel Insurance
    Mandatory
  • Meals not described
  • Some entrance tickets

Available Packages

Double Occupancy

This package is for two people traveling together in one room. (SELECT 2 TRAVELERS in the dropdown)

$1,780
Deposit: $400
Single Occupancy

This package is for one person in a private room. 

$1,980
Deposit: $400


Itinerary

Day 1
The Mystery of Matera

After checking into our B&B, you'll be free to discover the unique and delicious "Lucana" cuisine of Matera for lunch. In the afternoon, we'll take a guided walk through the ancient streets of Matera, the 2019 European Capital of Culture and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The history of this one-of-a-kind village is truly unique and makes for a mysterious and captivating story that will have you in wonder for days to come. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring Matera's winding streets on your own!


Meals Included: Breakfast

Your Organizer


SB
Sierra Busch
8 reviews
Creative Edge Travel is about slowing down to connect with what makes Italy Italy— its people. We know from experience that what you'll remember most are the interesting locals you meet on your adventure. That's why we couple unique activities with opportunities to connect with locals in a meaningful way. We go beyond the typical tourist sites to off-the-beaten-path villages and farms where our friends and artisans are waiting to share their way of life with you!

Reviews

JO
5 stars don't begin to describe the amazing 8 days I had with Sierra in Tuscany. It was my second trip to Tuscany and I thought I knew how wonderful it would be to soak up Tuscan culture again. NO, Sierra's trips are not like any I have ever experienced. The trip was full of love, joy, and appreciation. There were no lines or crowds so that one couldn't appreciate anything. Music, wine, food, laughter, learning, new friendships, moments to reflect, these are what Sierra gave me. Thank you Sierra Judy Olitsky
By Judy O for Living Slow in Tuscany (Oct 15-23, 2023) on Nov 27, 2023
This was such a wonderful experience. We were able to see Florence in a much different way. Meeting the artisans, seeing the often missed historical aspects of this amazing city, and also spending time with the locals. Thank you Sierra for this opportunity.
By Barbara J for Extension in Florence on Nov 07, 2023
The trip was great and I saw and learned a lot about Florence. I loved the Oltrano District where we stayed and also the hills of Florence and the lovely people we met along the way. The only way to visit such a beautIful city 👍🏻
By Jeanette P for Extension in Florence on Nov 07, 2023
I had a wonderful time with a lovely group of people and got to experience places I never would have done so on my own. The accommodations and itinerary was great too. I would love to do a similar trip in another region with Sierra 👍🏻
By Jeanette P for Living Slow in Tuscany (Oct 15-23, 2023) on Nov 07, 2023
This was such a wonderful experience. Sierra planned the trip perfectly down to the last detail. If you are looking for cultural immersion, this is the one. I loved the “surprise” visitors that were often planned after a packed day of amazing adventures.
By Barbara J for Living Slow in Tuscany (Oct 15-23, 2023) on Oct 27, 2023
Show More Reviews