La Locanda delle Donne Monache

SUSPENDED BETWEEN MOUNTAINS AND SEA with sweeping views over historic Maratea, La Locanda delle Donne Monache is one of those rare finds you’d like to keep all to yourselves.

A converted 18th century convent, Donne Monache is a little Eden with views to match. Hold your breath as you drive south from Naples and take the coast road from Sapri – the views are a winner.

Set among scenic mountains above the narrow alleys and rooftops of Maratea’s medieval centre, the Locanda offers second to none views over the old town from its hillside vantage point.

Quarters once that were once home to the Visitandine sisters have been transformed into stylish guest accommodation, mixing ample comforts with the charm and simplicity of the listed building. And if you’re smitten with the views from the terrace, you’ll love it inside this peaceful mountain hideaway.

Hanging gardens

Light-flooded rooms have a pared-down simplicity with clean lines and a clutter-free feel. Immaculate and with every home comfort, they come with big beds, bathrobes and a bottle of bubbly. We loved the five highly individual suites – one of them split-level and another with a private garden. La Badessa has wonderful views over the town while La Vicaria has a bathtub for two built into the mountain rock.

Public areas are dotted with sculptures and original artworks, while outside there’s a glistening pool reflecting the convent’s white bell tower. Dramatically set hanging gardens – brimful with the scent of lemon, jasmine and bougainvillea – nudge the steeply rising rock canopy, with sun loungers enjoying the shade of a natural rock canopy.

Relax poolside, with those fabulous views over Maratea, or hop aboard the Locanda’s free shuttle to a nearby private beach where you can swim and sun-soak. The sands here are lapped by some of Italy’s cleanest waters.

Steps lead down into the town, where Maratea’s historic centre offers a taste of real Italy. Well away from the cosmopolitan crowds and souvenir-laden stores of the big resorts, the town charms with its narrow alleys, café fringed main square and scenic surroundings. You’re far more likely to get chatting to locals here than simply other tourists.

Gastronomes make a beeline for Locanda delle Donne Monache’s Il Sacella restaurant, with its exposed stone walls and porticoed terrace.

A boat trip along the coast is a must, and there are plenty of other excursion-worthy places in the area. But most couples come here to simply unwind, slow down and switch off.

Donne Monache’s can’t-do-enough staff win plaudits galore from their guests. Warm, welcoming but unobtrusive, they’ll help make sure you have the best ever time here.

© Room for Romance