Beach and mountains at this stylish family-run hotel in the medieval historic centre of Maratea

Bursting with character and with stunning sunset views to take advantage of over a glass of wine

Ideal location for a sophisticated coastal break without the crowd

This lovingly-restored former 18th century convent sits in the shadow of the 70m giant marble statue of Christ the Redeemer, in the heart of the ancient centre of Maratea, on the Basilicata coast. Looking out from high above the higgledy-piggledy terracotta rooftops and churches of Maratea, the views stretch out over the countryside and down to the coast.

Communal facilities include a small basement lounge and several shady alcoves, with seating, around the garden. A small fitness room has exercise machines and spa treatments are available in the massage room.

Outside, the jasmine-scented gardens encircle a pool with a pleasant sunbathing area that has views over medieval Maratea below and the mountains and outstretched arms of the statue of Christ the Redeemer above. A free bus shuttle runs down to La Secca beach, a pebbly beach with beautiful azure sea, a bar, and complimentary sun-beds and umbrellas for the hotel guests.

Cloistered, winding corridors linger from the building’s monastic heritage but the bedrooms are bright and contemporary, ranging in size from Classic rooms (around 14m²) to Suites (38-44m²) that have terraces, gardens or a private living room and are well worth paying extra for.

Bathrooms have little luxuries like bathrobes, slippers and L’Occitane toiletries.

Enjoy superb antipasti, fresh fish and local delicacies in the ‘Il Sacello’ restaurant or on its outdoor patio, close to the pool. Drinks, cocktails and light snacks are available at the ‘L’Alambicco’ Bar.

Gluten-free and lactose-free products are available on request.

Maratea is a magical place, fragmented into small ancient villages, where you can discover culinary delights and make a full mouth-watering immersion.

Staff at the Locanda will happily recommend.

Gluten free and vegetarian diets are well catered for.

This tiny strip of coastline on the south west of Italy remains a hideaway for those in-the-know, with a coastal road that passes by medieval villages and pocket-sized beaches.

The hotel is very well-situated, in the heart of the historic centre of Maratea, a classic Italian hill town of whitewashed buildings, narrow lanes and little piazzette where hidden alleys conceal small trattorie and restaurants serving unpretentious local food at a fraction of the price of the Amalfi Coast. Wander down to the port where small fishing boats sail off each morning to bring in the overnight catches of cod, rockfish and sole or use the town as a base for exploring inland and the unspoilt coastline.

The sea along the coast is crystal clear, fringed with sandy and shingle beaches. Boat tours and diving courses are available at Porto Maratea. Venture inland into Italy’s largest national park, the Parco del Pollino, for some spectacular hiking and mountain biking.