Matera isn’t just famous for its stunning Sassi districts and cave dwellings—it’s also a fantastic place for hiking and trekking. With rugged landscapes, ancient paths, and panoramic views, this region offers more than just sightseeing; it invites you to step into its natural and historical tapestry on foot. We particularly enjoyed the Guided Hike from Castelmezzano to Pietrapertosa, which combines breathtaking mountain scenery with a touch of local legend. It’s a moderate trek that takes you through the Seven Stones Path, revealing views that make the effort worthwhile—think altitudes from 920 meters down to lush stream valleys, and back up again. This hike is perfect for those who want a challenging yet scenic experience that blends nature and history in one go.
Matera’s hiking options range from mountain adventures to exploring mystical rock-hewn churches. Whether you’re after a more strenuous mountain trek or a cultural walk through ancient rock churches, the region has something for every loving outdoor enthusiast. Below, we’ve put together a list of the best hiking and trekking tours, so you can pick the experience that best matches your fitness level and interests.
1. Guided Hike from Castelmezzano to Pietrapertosa
Set in the stunning Lucan Dolomites, this guided hike is a highlight for those wanting to combine mountain scenery with local lore. The route, known as the Seven Stones Path, links the villages of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, offering a moderately difficult trek through varied terrain and at different altitudes. You’ll start in Castelmezzano, known for its rock-carved houses and medieval streets, with sweeping views of the surrounding valley. The path takes you down into the Caperrino Stream valley, where lush greenery and the sound of flowing water provide a peaceful contrast to the rocky heights.
The trail features seven themed stops inspired by legends—each representing concepts like enchantment, witches, or flight—adding a storytelling twist to your trek. Participants rave about the scenery and the sense of adventure, with a perfect balance of challenge and awe-inspiring vistas. The 6-hour tour costs about $243 per person, making it a good investment if you’re keen on a well-rounded mountain experience with small-group intimacy. The tour’s blend of history, legend, and natural beauty makes it ideal for hikers who enjoy a moderate challenge and cultural stories.
Bottom Line: For a scenic mountain trek with a dash of legend, this guided hike offers excellent value and a memorable day among the mountains.
2. Matera: Hiking tour in the Canyon of the Gravina River
This shorter yet rewarding tour is perfect if you want to explore Matera’s lush canyon environment without a full-day commitment. In just 2.5 hours, you’ll hike down into the Canyon of the Gravina River, discovering Rupestrian Churches hidden among the greenery. The canyon’s cliffs and rich vegetation create a dramatic backdrop to your walk, and you’ll get a different perspective on the city of the Sassi, seeing it from below and understanding how the ancient inhabitants used the natural landscape for defense and shelter.
Your guide will share stories about the rock churches, some dating back to the X-XI centuries, that are carved directly into the stone. Along the way, you’ll get a taste of wilderness and history blending seamlessly. This tour is rated 5/5 by reviewers who appreciate its informative guide and stunning scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mid-morning or early afternoon excursion that combines nature and history without the physical strain of longer treks. The price is reasonable, and the focus on hidden churches and lush landscapes makes it a unique experience.
Bottom Line: For an easy, immersive exploration of Matera’s natural and spiritual sites, this canyon trek offers a compact yet enriching experience.
3. Matera: hike on the path of rock churches
This 4-hour hike dives into the heart of the Murgia Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993. Led by expert guides, you’ll visit five ancient rock churches—such as Sant’Eusatachio and Madonna della Loe—dating back to the X-XI centuries. The walk is a fascinating journey into ancient devotion, revealing how early communities carved places of worship directly into the limestone while living in harmony with the landscape.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on sustainable preservation and the chance to see Bronze Age origins of the rock architecture. The route takes you through Mediterranean scrub and opens up views of the spectacular rock formations. Visitors are captivated by the complexity of the architecture and the chance to stand inside cavities used as churches or funerary sites. Rated 5.0/5 by reviewers, many comment on the beauty and significance of the sites. The tour is suitable for those interested in archaeology and natural scenery.
Bottom Line: For a mix of cultural history and natural beauty, this walk offers a focused visit to some of Matera’s most remarkable rock churches.
4. Trekking towards Torrente Gravina and Rupestrian Churches of the Murgia
This roughly 3-hour trek is ideal for travelers who want to see the wider Murgia plateau and its network of rock-hewn churches. Starting at the Regional Park of the Rupestrian Churches, you’ll follow paths that lead down into the deep Gravina ravine. This area, declared a World Heritage Site, features deep karst fissures and ancient Neolithic and Byzantine settlements. It’s a landscape that looks almost prehistoric—cliffs, caves, and monasteries carved into the rock tell tales of past communities.
The walk offers spectacular views of the Sassi district, with an up-close look at rock settlements, monasteries, and rock churches. Reviewers mention the breathtaking scenery and the chance to walk through a landscape that feels untouched by time. The tour includes a quick visit to the Matera Lady of Monteverde Rock Church. It’s well suited for those interested in history, archaeology, and natural scenery, but with enough time for a more relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive look at Matera’s rock settlements and natural landscape, this trek balances scenic views with historical intrigue.
How to Choose Your Perfect Matera Hiking Tour
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your fitness level, interests, and time availability. If you want a full-day adventure with a story-rich mountain journey, the Guided Hike from Castelmezzano to Pietrapertosa is excellent. For a shorter but scenic walk, the canyon hike in the Canyon of the Gravina River offers a quick immersion into nature and history.
If your focus is on ancient architecture and rock churches, the Path of Rock Churches provides a deep cultural experience. Finally, for a wider natural exploration that includes the deep Gravina ravine and archaeological sites, the Trekking towards Torrente Gravina is ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. Consider the duration, difficulty level, and the specific highlights you want to explore most.
Final Thoughts
Matera offers a diverse range of hiking and trekking experiences that highlight both its rugged natural beauty and its ancient cultural sites. For those seeking a mountain adventure with legend and breathtaking views, the guided trek between Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa is hard to beat. If you prefer a shorter, scenic walk that reveals hidden churches, the canyon tour is perfect. Meanwhile, the rock church trail provides an in-depth look at Matera’s spiritual architecture, while the Murgia trek offers a broad perspective on the landscape and history.
No matter which tour you choose, stepping into Matera’s landscape on foot will give you a richer understanding of this unique region. Be sure to book early, pack your hiking shoes, and prepare for an unforgettable experience in one of Italy’s most visually stunning areas.
