Travellers have been warned that the Amalfi coast will be overrun with crowds this summer as overtourism in the destination reaches an all-time high.
With increasingly more visitors past and present complaining about the number of tourists crowding popular sights, too, there is a want and perhaps even a need for an alternative to the iconic Italian destination. And so, allow us to introduce… Maratea.
Nestled along the rugged coastline of the Basilicata region, Maratea is a hidden gem located at the Gulf of Policastro. It is just a two-and-a-half-hour drive along the coast from Amalfi, but without the crowds – the ultimate destination dupe.
With its stunning coastline, rich history, and authentic Italian charm, Maratea offers an unparalleled experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Southern Italy.
Below, we’ve created the ultimate destination guide to Maratea.
1. Stroll through the Old Town
While in Maratea, visitors should take their time strolling through the labyrinth of the old town. Travellers can find artisan shops selling cured meats, fine wine and delicious cheeses from the region. Above all, visitors to the town of Maratea will find a staggering 44 churches which it has become known for (“the town of 44 churches”). Impressive considering Maratea is only 67km²!
2. Hike to the Christ the Redeemer Statue
Maratea’s renowned landmark is its Christ the Redeemer statue; an impressive marble statue atop Monte San Biagio – the highest point in Maratea. The statue was a gift from the count, Stefano Rivetti, in 1962. Completed in 1965, the statue stands at almost 22 metres (the fifth tallest statue of Christ in the world). Rivetti is said to have requested that the statue face inland to protect the people of Maratea rather than out to sea as a symbol of his affection for the town. Travellers can either take a 15-minute drive from the town centre to see the local landmark or take on a 90-minute hike up the mountain. Once at the top you are rewarded with panoramic views – a real must-see!
It’s worth nothing that Stefano Rivetti is who built Hotel Santavenere in Maratea, too – a hotel of great importance and significance in the region and cherished by locals.
3. Visit Maratea’s Port
Another highlight is the town’s port. Once nothing but a wooden dock for Maratea’s fishermen, the port is now filled with cafes, restaurants and bars, establishing itself as the social hub of Maratea. After a day of hiking, kayaking, or rock climbing, or perhaps relaxing poolside surrounded by Maratea’s nature, the port is a wonderful place for an aperitif and to get to know the locals.
4. Get your Adrenaline Pumping with Outdoor Activities
A destination for exploration and discovery in Southern Italy, Maratea promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to invigorate both their body and soul. The region offers adrenaline-pumping outdoor pursuits such as hiking, rock climbing, and diving, but it also offers experiences that provide moments of tranquillity and seaside serenity such as kayaking to local caves, leisurely sailing along the coastline, and feeling the sand and salty sea on your skin after a day lounging on one of Maratea’s sandy beaches (many of which are only accessible by sea, making for the most magical beach day).
5. Experience Local Culture with Indigenus Experiences
Local experience provider, Indigenus Experiences, offers visitors of the region experiences that educate them on the past of Maratea, and how it’s traditions are weaved into the present. Experiences include kayaking to local caves, fishing with locals, foodie tours, tapestry excursions and more. With a mission to celebrate local traditions, Indigenus Experiences creates unforgettable experiences and itineraries in Maratea.
In Maratea, visitors can discover a piece of Italy that still feels exclusive, including their cuisine. Visitors should try Scapici – fried fish which is marinated in salt and vinegar, Mustazzoli – an ancient roman focaccia laid over laurel leaves and Zeppole – fried pizza with honey which used to be offered to Gods to protect the land’s fertility. You can taste these delicacies and other delicious dishes at the below local restaurants – all recommended by Hotel Santavenere.
1. i Sapori Di Marianna
In the town’s historic centre, travellers can enjoy zero km cuisine at i Sapori Di Marianna, inspired by Maratea and the surrounding region.
2. Lanterna Rossa
At the port of Maratea, Lanterna Rossa invites guests to an open kitchen concept with fresh local ingredients and produce grown in the kitchen garden.
3. La Cambusa
La Cambusa is the brainchild of husband-and-wife duo, Rosa and Pietro, who decided to open a small restaurant with the desire to introduce local seafood cuisine to the first tourists who timidly set out to discover a still unexplored Maratea.
4. Il Carrubo
On Fridays, travellers should pay a visit to Il Carrubo at Hotel Santavenere for its ‘Italian Friday’, where guests can discover the traditions of the region through local flavours and music.
Overlooking the sea and situated right at the foot of Mount San Biagio, Hotel Santavenere is the ideal place to stay for those visiting Maratea. It is the only five-star hotel in Maratea and offers panoramic sea views and direct access to the sea via its very own private beach, providing the perfect retreat for guests seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Hotel Santavenere stretches over 3,000 square feet and is located right on top of an imposing clifftop setting with 34 rooms and suites and plenty of calming living spaces designed with 19th-century Italian glamour in mind. As of June 2024, guests can expect a fresh look from Hotel Santavenere thanks to its light touch refurbishment throughout the hotel. The refurbishment will also see the hotel’s eight garden rooms transformed by an Italian designer.
Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport – which is just a one hour and thirty-minute drive from Maratea – will open as a commercial airport in July 2024 making it easier than ever to access Italy’s most beautiful coastline. Previously, the site has been more of an airfield than an airport, serving military pilots in training, and private aviation. International services will begin as early as July this year, with easyJet kicking off its services from Gatwick on July 13.
Currently, travellers can reach Maratea by flying into Naples airport, which is approximately a 2-and-a-half-hour drive from Hotel Santavenere.
Trains also run from Naples to Maratea, which take just over 2 hours, or from Rome to Maratea, which takes 3-and-a-half hours. The train station is located just a 20-min walk or a 5-min drive away from Hotel Santavenere.
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