Tour enogastronomico dei due Sassi, Barisano e Caveoso

Exploring the Enogastronomico Tour of the Two Sassi in Matera

If you’re considering a visit to Matera, this enogastronomico tour through the two Sassi—Barisano and Caveoso—offers a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that can truly deepen your experience. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve looked into what makes it appealing and what you can expect.

What really caught my eye are the detailed itinerary and the focus on local food and craftsmanship—a perfect way to connect with Matera beyond just snapping photos. Plus, the tour’s affordable price point of around $75 makes it accessible for many travelers. One potential consideration is that it doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transport to the meeting point. This tour seems well-suited for those who want a comprehensive look at Matera’s historic streets, caves, and food scene in roughly four hours.

Key Points

• In-depth exploration of Matera’s iconic Sassi districts
• Focus on local food tastings that highlight regional specialties
• Visit to historic sites like the Rock Church and Casa Cava
• Small group size (max 15 people) for a more personalized experience
• Includes entrance fees and guide, adding value
• No hotel transfer, so plan transportation accordingly

Getting a Feel for Matera: What the Tour Offers

Matera, with its ancient cave dwellings and fascinating streets, is a place that seems to whisper stories from the past. This tour promises to take you through the most iconic parts of the Sassi, the historic districts carved out of limestone, which earned UNESCO World Heritage recognition.

You’ll start at the Museo di Palazzo Lanfranchi, where your guide will give a brief overview of the area’s architecture and anthropology. Standing in this square, you get a sense of the city’s layered history right from the start. From there, you move through charming, winding streets, passing Baroque churches and colorful squares, each with its own character.

The tour then proceeds to the Cattedrale di Matera, perched atop “La Civita,” offering fantastic views of the Sassi. This is a great spot to pause and take in the panorama, which truly underscores the rugged beauty of Matera’s landscape.

Visiting Casa Cava and Casa Grotta

A highlight for many is the visit to Casa Cava, an underground hypogeum environment deep within the Sassi that reveals how ancient inhabitants lived and worked. This subterranean space offers a tangible connection to everyday life centuries ago.

Next, you’ll step into one of Matera’s traditional cave-dwellings at Casa Grotta, which has been transformed into a museum. Here, you can see period furniture and tools, getting a real sense of rural life in the Sassi. One reviewer even noted, “the tour of the two Sassi is fascinating, made even more enjoyable by our talented and passionate guide Linda,” highlighting the importance of a good guide in enriching this experience.

Religious Treasures and Stunning Views

Arriving in the Caveoso district, you’ll visit rock-carved churches like Madonna dell’Idris, beautifully adorned with frescoes. These rupestrian churches are a point of pride and showcase the artistic devotion of past communities.

The tour wraps up with a light lunch in a charming bistrot, where you’ll savor some of the local food products. This part of the experience, which lasts about an hour, is a nice opportunity to relax, reflect, and taste authentic regional flavors.

The Food and Craft Experience

The tasting session is what makes this tour stand out. You’ll sample local food products, which may include regional delicacies and tapas-style bites. The reviews mention delicious food and an emphasis on local flavors, which adds a delicious layer to the historical and cultural exploration.

On top of that, the visit to the Sassi in Miniatura craft shop is a chance to see artworks crafted from tuff stone, the material that makes Matera’s structures so distinctive. Such crafts are a tangible reminder of the city’s artistic traditions.

Tour Logistics and Practicalities

The tour lasts about 4 hours, which is perfect if you’re looking for a substantial but not overwhelming experience. You’ll walk through narrow alleyways and historic streets, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

The group size is limited to 15 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience. The price of about $75 includes guide services, entrance fees, and tastings, making it a good value considering the depth of the experience.

The tour begins at Altieri Viaggi in the heart of Matera, with no hotel pickup included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. It’s also worth noting that the tour is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Two reviews stand out for highlighting the tour’s strengths. One traveler praised their guide Antonio, saying, “Thanks to our guide Antonio, the tour was exciting and fun, he accompanied us with competence and professionalism to a special and beautiful city!” This emphasizes the importance of a knowledgeable guide in making the experience memorable.

Another reviewer appreciated the passion and competence of guide Linda, calling the tour “fascinating” and “worth it”. They also appreciated the stunning views and the opportunity to learn about Matera’s past while enjoying delicious local food.

Some comments also hint at the tour’s value for money—especially considering the well-curated visits and tastings included. The small group size allows for better interaction and questions, making the experience feel personalized.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history lovers, foodies, and those curious about local craftsmanship. If you enjoy walking through picturesque old towns and want a taste of authentic regional cuisine, this tour hits the mark. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer guided experiences with a knowledgeable host rather than wandering independently.

However, if you’re looking for a luxury or private tour, or if you prefer to be picked up from your hotel, this might not be the perfect fit. Remember, it’s a group experience with no transportation included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Tour enogastronomico dei due Sassi in Matera offers a solid, engaging way to explore the city’s most iconic districts. It combines historical insights, local crafts, and delicious tastings into one memorable experience. The small group size and included entries add a personal touch that many travelers will appreciate.

If you’re someone who wants to see the best of Matera in a manageable timeframe, while also enjoying regional food and discovering hidden corners, this tour is a good choice. It’s especially worthwhile if you value guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, as highlighted in the reviews.

Finally, at around $75, the price seems fair for the quality of this experience, making it a worthwhile addition to your trip, especially if you want to get beneath the surface of Matera’s famous Sassi.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the tour’s focus on walking through historic streets and visiting churches suggests it’s best for older children or teenagers. The pace and content are quite educational, which may appeal more to adult interests.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at Altieri Viaggi in Matera.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for sites like Casa Cava, Casa Grotta, and the churches are covered in the ticket price.

How long is the tour overall?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, including the tasting session.

What is the price per person?
It costs about $75.31 per person, which covers guide services, site entrances, and food tastings.

Is the group small?
Yes, with a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate and flexible experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations made closer to the date won’t be refunded.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring uneven, narrow streets and historic sites.

If you’re planning a trip to Matera, this enogastronomico tour offers a nice balance of culture, history, and regional flavors. It’s a great way to see the city through a local lens, taste authentic foods, and discover the stories behind Matera’s breathtaking Sassi.