When planning our two-month adventure across Italy, I stumbled upon Frances Mayes’ book See You in the Piazza. Mayes’ geographical chapters made it easy to navigate her travel insights. But one of the most valuable parts was her mention of government-funded initiatives promoting rural agriturismo stays; farms, vineyards, and wineries. These stays are not only economical, but they offer a unique way to experience the heart of Italy—without the typical tourist crowds.
One of these hidden gems was the Agriturismo stay at Fontana La Pietra, nestled in the unspoiled countryside of Matera. Fontana La Pietra is an ideal spot for both short and long stays, providing a peaceful retreat away from the bustling cities. Located just a few kilometers from the renowned Sassi of Matera, this farmhouse offers a tranquil base for exploring nearby attractions such as the Crypt of the Original Sin, the National Museum of Metapontum, the charming town of Pisticci, and the unexpected ghost town of Craco.
The farmhouse itself is a haven of comfort, featuring a restaurant, swimming pool, soccer field, children’s play area, and an array of friendly animals, including horses, dwarf goats, donkeys, and piglets. Our mini-apartment was well-equipped with a private bathroom, kitchenette, satellite TV, air conditioning, double bed, and a sofa bed—perfect for a relaxing stay amidst nature.
What truly set our visit apart was the serene atmosphere of the property. Since we were traveling during the shoulder season, we were the only guests and had the entire place to ourselves. The rooms were immaculately clean, and we enjoyed leisurely walks around the farm, surrounded by cultivated fields and quiet countryside.
Dinner at the farmhouse was a highlight: homemade pasta with eggplant, paired with their local wine. It was a truly authentic taste of the region, made even better by the peaceful setting.
Fontana La Pietra isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Italy’s lesser-known, but no less enchanting, countryside. Whether you’re looking for a short getaway or a long, relaxing stay, an Agriturismo in Matera offers the perfect balance of comfort, nature, and history.
The Agriturismo website features a vast selection of properties in stunning locations throughout Italy. We highly recommend adding this site to your list of essential resources when planning your own Italian getaway.
Our stay was €35 per night for the two of us. Absolutely outstanding value. Explorable from Fontana La Pietra – Matera; Alberobello; Taranto; Bari; Pisticci; and Craco.
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