Unbelievable Matera Castle Stay: DIMORA AL CASTELLO Awaits!
Unbelievable? More Like Jaw-Dropping! My Dimora al Castello Matera Adventure (A Review That's… Well, Me)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Matera, Italy, and let me tell you, it wasn't just a trip; it was an experience. And the Dimora al Castello? Forget "unbelievable." It’s more like "pinch me, I'm dreaming!" This ain't your cookie-cutter hotel review; I'm diving deep, sharing the good, the slightly-less-good, and the moments that made my soul sing (or, you know, just feel pleasantly warm in the Italian sun).
First Impressions: The Castle Whisperer
The whole Dimora al Castello thing? It lives up to the name. You're actually in a castle. A real one! I mean, seriously, how often do you get to sleep in a place that probably housed some seriously shady characters back in the day? Walking through those ancient stone walls felt like stepping into a movie. They've done a phenomenal job of blending the modern comforts with the historic charm.
Accessibility: Not Always Smooth Sailing, But…
Okay, let's be honest. Matera is built on a hill, and a lot of stairs. This is a review, and I need to get it right. So while the photos of the pool (oh, the pool!) are gorgeous I have to be honest - wheelchair accessible? Probably not. I mean, it's a castle! It would be miraculous. They do have an elevator, which is a godsend, but the terrain outside… let’s just say you'll be getting your glutes workout in. Inside the hotel itself, things are better. So… Accessibility: C+ for me.
Rooms & Amenities: My Cozy Cave & the Elusive "Relax"
My room? Oh, my room! Stone walls, a comfy bed (extra long, bless them!), and a view that demanded a thousand Instagram posts. And free Wi-Fi in every room! Thank the internet gods because my stories and this review needed to be shared. I had a seating area, nice, and a window that… I wish I could open more. You've got a safe, a mini-bar (essential for a sneaky midnight beverage or two), and the bathroom was surprisingly modern. The room sanitization was top-notch, which is important, these days. They're going above and beyond.
Here’s a slight rant: I swear, I went looking for the spa (Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Massage, Body scrub, Body wrap) and this took a turn. I was expecting a full-scale pampering session, but it looked like… meh. They do have something that could work, I suppose, though the "gym" looked like it needed a serious update. I mean, if you need to go down to the Gym (fitness) get away from the world for a little bit the hotel does help. It's more of a wellness suite instead of the full-on spa experience I had in my mind.
Dining & Drinking: Carb-Loading in Style!
Okay, now we're talking! Food, glorious food. Breakfast was Breakfast [buffet] with a good range. The restaurant – they have a few, and a Poolside bar – offer a la carte options. Let's be real, the International cuisine and Western cuisine were both delicious. They even had a Vegetarian restaurant and Asian cuisine to keep everyone happy. I may have indulged in the pastries a little too much. But hey, when in Rome, right? or well, Matera. Happy hour was a highlight - Aperol Spritz, anyone? A la carte in restaurant or Buffet in restaurant, both were superb.
Here's a Foodie Confession: One day, I ordered room service. Now, I'm usually a "get out there and explore" kinda person, but that day, I just couldn't drag myself from the balcony. The food arrived quickly, piping hot.. and they included extra bread. Extra bread! They may not have every single food type, but what they have, rocks.
Cleanliness & Safety: My Inner Germaphobe Approved!
This is where Dimora al Castello really shines. Anti-viral cleaning products, professional-grade sanitizing services, daily disinfection in common areas, and staff trained in safety protocol: they take it seriously. You can tell. They’ve even got Hand sanitizer everywhere. I could almost taste the cleanliness. Almost. It was comforting to know they're doing everything they can to keep guests safe. Hygiene certification too! I appreciate it!
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things (That Make a Big Difference)
They have a concierge, and they're amazing. Need a taxi? Done. Reservations? Sorted. Laundry service? Check and check. The Daily housekeeping kept everything spotless. They even have Facilities for disabled guests which is a plus! I loved having room service [24-hour] because sometimes you just need a snack in the middle of the night, am I right? The luggage storage was super helpful.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Beyond the Walls
Matera itself is the star. Explore the Sassi (those ancient cave dwellings!), wander the narrow streets, and get lost in the history… which is why the Shrine close by might be really interesting to visit. The hotel’s a great base for it! And honestly, just sitting on the Terrace was enough relaxation for me. Okay, I did see the pool with view – it looked divine. There’s also the Fitness center, though I didn't make it there. Maybe next time. The Sauna and Spa/sauna are there, I hope you like them! Getting Around: A Matera Maze
Airport transfer available – use it! Car park [on-site] – handy. Car park [free of charge] - also handy. Metered taxis were easy to arrange. The hotel has Taxi service. If you are taking a Rental Car, Car power charging station is available.
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The Verdict: Book It, Already!
Look, Dimora al Castello isn't perfect. But it's more than enough. It's charming, comfortable, safe, and in a location that will blow your mind. It's a little slice of heaven, a chance to step back in time while still enjoying all the modern conveniences. If you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience in Matera, book your stay. You won't regret it.
My Emotional Response:
- Initial reaction: "Woah."
- During the stay: Pure joy, mixed with the occasional "where am I even?!"
- Leaving: A sad, but also a relaxed, "I'll be back!"
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Istanbul's Hidden Gem: Uncover the Luxurious Byzantium Suites!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's meticulously planned travel itinerary. This is Matera, Italy, survival guide, by yours truly, and let me tell you, it's gonna be a rollercoaster. Specifically, starting at DIMORA AL CASTELLO – which, judging by the name, sounds fancy, right? We'll see.
Matera: The Sassi Whisperer (and Chronic Over-Planner's Nightmare) – My Diary of Disasters & Delight
The Day Before (Preparation Phase… Ha!)
- 10:00 AM: Panic sets in. Okay, I thought I packed. Turns out, I packed, like, one decent pair of walking shoes. Matera, I've heard, is ALL WALKING. Good lord. Scramble for a travel adapter (Europe, you sly dogs!). Mentally reconfigure luggage.
- 12:00 PM: Deep dive into Matera videos. The Sassi are stunning. The internet is full of perfect Instagrammers frolicking in perfect light. I will not be one of those. I'm going for "authentically bewildered."
- 2:00 PM: Download Italian phrasebook. Try to memorize "Un espresso, per favore." Already failing. I'll probably end up accidentally asking for a plate of spaghetti when trying to order water.
- 6:00 PM: Start to question my sanity. Matera is in Puglia. Puglia is in Southern Italy. Southern Italy… It's supposed to be HOT. My wardrobe is 80% cozy sweaters. Sigh.
- 9:00 PM: Procrastination-fueled Netflix binge. "Under the Tuscan Sun" – pure torture, honestly. Now I'm even MORE stressed.
Day 1: Arrival, Confusion, and the Quest for Espresso
- 8:00 AM: Arrive at Bari Airport. Struggle to find transport to Matera with the help of some aggressive taxi drivers.
- 10:00 AM: Finally arrive at DIMORA AL CASTELLO whew. The place is gorgeous. Tiny, cobbled streets leading to a carved-in-the-stone-room, like a fancy cave. Okay, maybe I'm not in so far over my head. The staff are lovely.
- 11:00 AM: The first Espresso. Finally. And it's… amazing. The caffeine hits, and I feel alive. I think I could conquer the world (or at least the Sassi) right now. I try to strike a conversation with the barista, probably butchering the Italian language. He smiles politely. I take that as a win.
- 12:00 PM: Wander aimlessly. Matera is a maze. A GOOD maze, but a maze nonetheless. Get gloriously, wonderfully lost. Discover a tiny church carved into the rock. Kneeling on the cold stone floor for a few minutes. The kind of peace I never get back home.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch. Find a Trattoria recommended by the hotel. Order the cavatelli with tomato sauce. It arrives. I take a bite. Holy. Mother. Of. Pasta. This is the best pasta I’ve ever eaten. (I'm pretty sure this is a pivotal moment in my life.)
- 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Deliberate exploration of the Sassi districts (Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso). The houses are built into the rock. The architecture is otherworldly. I’m constantly stopping to take photos, completely oblivious to the people who are probably trying to get somewhere. Encounter a very grumpy donkey who probably knows more about Matera than I do.
- 6:00 PM: Attempt to buy a bottle of local wine. Fail miserably at the language barrier. The shopkeeper sighs, but helps me choose a delicious Primitivo anyway. Sweet, old man.
- 7:00 PM: Back to that pasta restaurant for dinner. Cavatelli part deux. This time, I try to order in Italian, and I think I’m getting better.
- 8:00 PM: Stumble back to the hotel, feeling slightly tipsy and completely overwhelmed in the best way possible. Matera… you sly minx, you.
Day 2: The Cave Experience & the Unexpected Epiphany
- 9:00 AM: Wake up, and my back already hurts. Gotta remember to pack better shoes next time.
- 10:00 AM: The Cave Dwelling experience. DIMORA AL CASTELLO organizes tours of the caves. Seriously fascinating, and the guide explains why they were lived in for so long. There's a raw, primal energy to these places. A very different energy from my life back home, let me tell you. Realizes how good we have it.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at a ridiculously cute restaurant. They are trying so hard with the ambiance, and frankly, it works. We're talking checkered tablecloths, overflowing wine glasses, and the best panzerotti I've ever tasted.
- 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: The Duomo di Matera. The Cathedral. Walk through. The stone is gorgeous. There's that feeling of being very small.
- 3:00 PM: Wander to the other side of the canyon - Parco della Murgia Materana. A long hike, with views over the Sassi. Very beautiful. I'm starting to think I'm actually enjoying being alone.
- 6:00 PM: Sunset over Matera. Find a viewpoint. Sigh. A moment of pure, unadulterated beauty. The light changes. The city glows. And I feel… changed. Seriously. Like, a tiny part of me has been rearranged by this place.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. Another restaurant, totally different vibe. Trying to be more adventurous with the menu this time. Order something I can't even pronounce. It's… interesting. Definitely not the pasta. But hey, when in Matera, right?
- 8:00 PM: Stargazing. Okay, the sky here… unbelievable. Never seen so many stars.
Day 3: Parting is Such Sweet, Sweet Regret
- 9:00 AM: Luggage. Packing. Curse myself for overpacking.
- 10:00 AM: One last Espresso. And a pastry. Okay, maybe I'll let myself eat everything.
- 11:00 AM: Last walk through the Sassi. Savouring every step.
- 12:00 PM: Buy some souvenirs. A tiny ceramic house that looks like a Sasso. A bottle of local olive oil. Trying to squeeze every bit of history, flavour, and memory I can.
- 1:00 PM: Head back to Bari for the flight. A poignant sense of loss.
- 2:00 PM: Bari Airport.
- 3:00 PM: Boarding, seat on the plane.
- 4:00 PM: Departure.
- End:
- Reflect on the journey. My expectations were met, but turned upside down.
Post-Trip Ramblings:
Matera, you wild, wondrous, confusing, delightful, and absolutely delicious place. I came expecting to be a tourist. Instead, you somehow convinced me to feel. I'm already planning my return. And next time, I'm packing two pairs of walking shoes. And maybe an actual grasp of Italian.
Ciao for now, Matera. And thank you.
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So, Dimora al Castello... Is it *really* in a castle? Like, are we talking stone walls, drawbridges, the whole shebang?
Okay, okay, settle down, history buffs. No, you won't be battling off marauding knights. But yes, it's *incredibly* close. Think of it as a castle-adjacent experience, nestled within the Sassi of Matera, which *is* basically a giant, ancient, fortified city in itself. You're living in a cave – with plumbing, thankfully! – so there's a definite echo of history. The walls are thick, the air is cool, and you *feel* like you've stepped back centuries. You'll be telling everyone you've stayed in a castle, and honestly? They won't be entirely wrong.
Let's talk about the rooms. Are they all... cave-like? And are they nice caves?
Ah, *the rooms*. Prepare to be enchanted. Mostly. Look, the novelty factor alone is HUGE. My room? It was carved into the rock. Like, *literally*. It had its own little alcoves, which I immediately claimed as my reading nooks. The bathroom? Modern, thankfully, but still had that rustic charm. Think stone walls, maybe a quirky shower head. Some rooms might be a little…dimly lit. It's a *cave*, people! Embrace the drama! I'll admit, I spent the first hour just wandering around going, "Wow. Okay. This is…really something." There were a few moments, when the lights were low, the shadows were long, and I had to remind myself I wasn't about to be eaten by a grue.
What about the breakfast? Is it the usual continental blah, or is it something special?
Breakfast? Oh, the breakfast. This is where Dimora al Castello really shines. Forget your pre-packaged croissants and lukewarm coffee. We’re talking fresh, local, *delicious* stuff. Think: creamy yogurt with honey, crusty bread, local cheeses, prosciutto that practically melts in your mouth. The first morning I probably inhaled my weight in pastries. And the coffee? Strong enough to wake the dead. Plus, the breakfast room itself is a masterpiece. Another cave, of course, but beautifully decorated. Seriously, start your day right, because you'll be doing *a lot* of walking around Matera. And trust me, you'll need the fuel.
Okay, the location. How difficult is it to get around? Are you constantly climbing hills and getting lost?
Ah, the *location*. It's fantastic, and also...a bit of a workout. Matera is all hills, winding alleyways, and steps. *Lots* of steps. Dimora al Castello is ideally situated, close to the main attractions, but that means you're going to be doing some serious legwork. My advice? Embrace it! Wear comfortable shoes. And be prepared to pant. Frequently. I got lost at least three times a day, but that was part of the adventure! Honestly, getting lost is the *best* way to discover Matera's hidden gems. Just maybe download a map beforehand. Me? I relied on my terrible sense of direction and the kindness of strangers. Mostly strangers.
What's the Wi-Fi situation like? Because, you know... Instagram.
Okay, real talk. The Wi-Fi? It was…spotty. Let's just say I spent a lot of time staring at the little spinning wheel of doom. It worked *most* of the time, but don't expect super-fast speeds. But honestly? This is a *good* thing. It forces you to disconnect, to soak in the atmosphere, to actually *talk* to the people you’re with. Plus, the lack of constant connectivity made the experience feel even more…authentic. Plus, there are worse sins than being disconnected in a cave. Just save up your Instagram posting for later! Enjoy the moment.
The "cave experience"... Is it actually *cold*? Like, freezing cold?
Okay, so this is something I was worried about. Cold, damp, spooky... It’s a cave, right? Honestly, it was surprisingly pleasant. The rock naturally keeps the temperature really stable. It was cool, but never freezing. They had climate control in the room, so you could adjust it if you got chilly. In fact, the cave felt incredibly refreshing, especially after a day of sweating as I navigated the hills. But yeah, even though the walls were thick, you could still occasionally hear sounds travelling between rooms – a bit of whispering, the occasional laugh. I got used to it. Okay, I actually ended up loving it!
Okay, you’re selling me on this! But realistically, what are the downsides? The *actual* downsides, not the brochure fluff.
Alright, alright, here's the unvarnished truth. A few things could be improved. The Wi-Fi was truly awful, as mentioned. And the soundproofing? Not amazing. You can hear your neighbors. Sometimes you hear your neighbors doing…things. (Let's leave it at that.) Also, the shower water pressure in my room was a bit weak. Could be better. Also, the stairs can be daunting if you have mobility issues. And maybe I'm being picky, but I wish there was a better selection of snacks.
Would you go back? Honestly.
Absolutely. In a heartbeat. Despite the wonky Wi-Fi and the fact that I nearly lost a lung climbing those hills, Dimora al Castello was *magical*. The feeling of staying in something so old, so unique, so… earthy, and the breakfast…oh God, the breakfast! It’s an experience you won’t forget. Matera itself is a treasure. So yes, despite the imperfections, I'm already planning my return trip. Just need to buy a decent pair of hiking boots first. And learn Italian. And maybe bring my own snacks.
Anything else I should know before I book?
Bring comfortable shoes. Seriously. And embrace the imperfections. Matera, and Dimora al Castello, are not about perfection. They're about the *experience*. Be prepared to get lost, be prepared to feel like you've stepped back in time, and be prepared to fall in love.Low Price Hotel Blog
