Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita
One Michelin Key
Hotel Details
Location
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita · Matera, Italy
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Expert Review: Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita in Matera, Italy, a Michelin Key One-Key property, consistently garners exceptional reviews for its unique and immersive cave dwelling experience, blending ancient history with understated luxury.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
The general consensus for Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is overwhelmingly positive, often described as an "exceptional," "unique," and "magical" stay. Guests frequently highlight its breathtakingly romantic atmosphere and historical authenticity. Review platforms often show high scores, with Booking.com rating it 9.6 (Exceptional) and Tablet Hotels giving it an impressive 19.6/20 based on verified stays, with individual scores like 9.7 for comfort and staff, and 9.8 for location.
2. Key Highlights
Guests consistently laud the hotel's unique cave experience, which is meticulously preserved yet offers modern comforts. Key highlights include the stunning design that respects the caves' tufa-rock roots, the serene and calming atmosphere often enhanced by candlelight, and the beautiful location with panoramic views of the Murgia National Park. The friendly and attentive staff are also a recurring highlight, contributing significantly to a memorable stay.
3. Room Quality
The rooms and suites are set within large, beautifully restored ancient caves, offering a sense of sanctuary and spaciousness. They are characterized by stone floors, antique furniture, and a minimalist, rustic design. Despite their ancient setting, rooms are air-conditioned and feature comfortable Select Comfort beds with down comforters and premium bedding, ensuring excellent sleep quality. Amenities include natural, locally made bath products, candles, complimentary bottled water, and in some rooms, sleek freestanding bathtubs positioned to maximize the unique ambiance. Some guests note the open-plan bathroom, where the bathing area might be integrated into the room, which can impact privacy.
4. Dining Experience
The dining experience at Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is highly praised, especially the complimentary breakfast. Served in an 18th-century rock-hewn church, the breakfast is described as a "princely spread" of organic, seasonal, and locally sourced produce. Offerings typically include traditional breads (like Matera's famous Pane di Matera), pastries, fresh fruit, cereals, local cheeses, meats, and other regional specialties. For lunch and dinner, the hotel offers an intimate private-dining experience in its former church, which must be booked in advance. Room service for breakfast and aperitifs is also available.
5. Service & Staff
Guest feedback consistently rates the service and staff as "excellent," "friendly," "helpful," and "hospitable." Many reviewers appreciate the attentive nature of the team, their care for every detail, and their dedication to making the stay special.
6. Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an exceptional location within Matera's Sassi area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering direct access to the ancient cave dwellings. It provides breathtaking views overlooking the Sassi district and the Murgia National Park. Numerous restaurants and local attractions are within walking distance. However, due to its location in the historic Sassi, the property involves many stairs and is not accessible by vehicle directly. Car transfers are recommended from Bari Airport (approximately 60km away) or Naples International Airport (300km away), and guests can use a discounted partner car park located about a kilometer away.
7. Value & Pricing
While considered a luxury property and often described as "pricey," guests frequently state that the unique and unforgettable experience makes it "worth every penny." Rates can vary, but generally start from around $186 per night, with superior rooms ranging from approximately $359 to $667 nightly depending on the season and specific room. The price typically includes the outstanding breakfast.
8. Common Complaints
The most frequently mentioned "complaints" or considerations often relate to the inherent nature of staying in a restored cave system. These include minor inconveniences like the open bathroom layouts in some rooms, which may offer less privacy than traditional hotel bathrooms. Additionally, the hotel's layout with its many stairs can pose accessibility challenges for guests with mobility issues. Some guests also note that the minimalist design, while authentic, might be a departure from conventional luxury for those expecting more elaborate decor.
Sources
Google Reviews
574 reviews
Recent Guest Reviews
Charles Abelmann
This is much more than a hotel !! The owner has embraced preserving amazing spaces with a drive toward authenticity with luxury over modern design. The attention to detail is amazing whether the linens, furnishings or local specialities at breakfast. This is a place to call home as you explore matera and I would for sure stay at least two nights. The staff is great. Each room is different! A great...
KAY SUE
Where do I even begin? This stay was the highlight of my entire Italy trip. The property itself is stunning and so unique, but what truly sets it apart is the unmatched hospitality. From the moment | arrived, communication was clear and the staff made me feel right at home. They topped up the wood fire in my room, carried every bag before I could reach for it, and even welcomed me back to relax in...
Hywel Maslen
Probably the most unique hotel you may ever stay on, but this was certainly on many ways, the best I have ever stayed in for many reasons. Essentially this hotel restores the rooms and caves to as much to their original state as possible and they have done a truly remarkable job. While there are modern features like hot water and wifi, fridges and other items are just tucked away or hidden and e...
IMKO
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita, nestled in Matera’s UNESCO-listed Sassi, is famed for its 18 cave rooms carved into ancient tufa rock, reflecting the city’s Paleolithic origins. Perched opposite the Gravina canyon, it offers breathtaking views of the Sassi’s golden, cave-dotted landscape, a testament to its historical and architectural value. Restored with care by Daniele Kihlgren and David Chip...
Response from the owner
Dear Guest,<br><br>thank you for sharing your feedback. The Sextantio project follows a very precise philosophy, which may not align with the expectations of those looking for a traditional hotel with...
Terese Guerriero
Who knew a cave could be so luxurious! The bed was cozy. The lighting was romantic - especially the candles, placed strategically around the room. The shower was spacious. The linens, including the fluffiest of bath robes, were plush. And the toiletries were of the highest quality - handcrafted goats milk soap is pretty indulgent for a hotel room. The fruit bowl was so gorgeous, we thought it was ...
Michelle Carlin
We had such a wonderful experience at Sexantio Le Grotte Della Civita. The service was excellent! The breakfast was the best spread we have experienced in Italy! The accommodation was amazing - the design and detail is just beautiful and completely authentic to the surroundings. What a special place Matera is and to be able to stay at Sextantio made it an incredible experience.
About One Michelin Key
One Michelin Key is awarded to hotels that offer a very special stay. These properties are characterized by their unique personality, high quality, and ability to create memorable experiences for guests.
