Hidden italy

For a slice of the undiscovered, we suggest a tour of Italy's two last hideaway regions, Basilicata and Campania on the West coast of Southern Italy. To enjoy the simple rural pleasures of Southern Italy, our two properties hit the spot.

After arriving in Naples, you travel south to Maratea. Just five minutes from this charming town, known as the pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea, you will stay at Cottage San Biagio. The ultimate "Room with a View", this gem of a property has wonderful views, overlooking the Gulf of Policastro and the Port of Maratea. Overshadowing it all is the sentinel of the figure of Christ next to the Church of San Biagio. This figure is second only to Brazil's Rio de Janeiro figure and visitors come from all over the world to see this truly spectacular sight. The Port of Maratea, a short drive away, has two excellent fish restaurants. It is a bustling place with private yachts and motor cruisers filling the harbour as well as numerous fishing boats and ferries offering coastal and cave excursions. Described by some as "Portofino without the crowds", it is not without a buzz, especially with young people around "passegiata" time.

The chic town of Maratea itself has become very fashionable with the Italian elite who have bought villas along the coast and in the nearby hills. Tiny cobbled streets are lined with wine bars, cafes, shops, restaurants and "gelataria" - ice cream parlours! However, as chic as it is, Maratea is still untouristy and everything stops at 1pm when the shops close and locals escape for a long lunch and a restful siesta. At 5pm, the town comes to life once more until late into the balmy Basilicatan evening. Maratea is also a great base from which to explore mountain villages, historic abbeys and churches, and to enjoy beautiful coastal walks.

From Maratea, head north to the Cilento Hills where we suggest a 7-day stay, in a charming little village overlooking the sea. Here you can stay at a delightful town apartment. Wander to the local restaurant in the village, explore the coastline, visit Roman temples at Paestum or the nearby archaeological site at Velia. The owners of the property also own Casetta nella Foresta, a typical Agriturismo just a short distance from the apartment where there is a swimming pool at your disposal. Horse riding can be arranged from here along the coast and through the countryside.

Prices from £843 per person based on 14 nights self catering accommodation at Cottage San Biagio and The Cilento apartment.

Please contact us on 01889 882170 for more details or email emma@luna-rosa.co.uk