Stretching from the Apulian Border through the Apennine Mountains to the Tyrrhenian Sea, Basilicata’s rich volcanic soil and sloping terrain has produced fine wines for thousands of years. Pioneered by Greeks in the 3rd century BC, Basilicata is a wine-soaked region with culinary traditions and centuries-old viticulture.

Things to do

Leave modern-day life behind, venturing north along windy narrow roads towards Mount Vulture. This extinct volcano has fertile land and an extreme microclimate that cultivates one of southern Italy’s finest reds, the Aglianico del Vulture.

Alvoni Winery is a must-see, set at the foot of Mount Vulture with sweeping panoramas of olive trees, chestnuts and vineyards. Here you can taste the robust red, prized for its depth of flavour and ageing abilities. For an immersive wine experience, stop by Azienda Agricola Elena Fucci or Cantina del Notaio, where you can learn the history, passion and innovation behind Basilicata wine over antipasto platters.

Visit the ancient city of Matera, the world’s third-oldest continually inhabited settlement. Take a tour of the vast underground channels and elaborate limestone cave dwellings, known as “sassi”. At the heart of the modern city, you can admire Matera’s beautiful cathedral with its Romanesque architecture and Baroque ceiling.

Head to Soul Kitchen for typical “cucina povera”, simple yet flavourful dishes originally created by impoverished cave dwellers, before topping off the evening with a bottle of local Matera Bianco at Vicolo Cieco. Must-try foods include the Lucanica sausages, Matera “caved-baked” bread and Pecorino cheese.

Getting around

Basilicata’s closest airports are Bari Airport in Puglia and Brindisi Airport on the Ionian Coast. Trains run between the main cities of Basilicata, as well as the neighbouring provinces of Bari and Naples. Renting a car is ideal for exploring the wine regions and coastline.