Mr & Mrs Smith

Masseria Matera

Basilicata, Italy

An alabaster-toned stone farmhouse newly built on a Basilicata hilltop, Masseria Matera is a 15-minute drive from the historic town of the same name. A huge infinity pool, under-floor heating and electric gates set the tone for this luxury villa, perfect for a peaceful retreat with olive trees on the terrace and groves of oranges, limes and figs.

Need to know

• Rates information Low season, €1,900 a week; mid season, €2,800; high season, €3,500.
• Ideal for A couple hosting friends, families with grown-up children, cycling holidays and historians keen to explore Matera.
• Sleeps 6
• Property style This modern masseria-style property is pristine. All the rooms are across one ground-floor level and decorated in neutrals with splashes of colour.
• Grounds Perched on a hilltop reached by a cypress-lined drive, the villa overlooks acres of rolling countryside some of which has been generously lent to the local farmers for them to cultivate. Closer to the house, olive and fruit trees are there to admire.
• Minimum hire A weekend break.
• Children The masseria is better suited to grown-ups.
• Also No smoking throughout. No pets allowed. There is currently no internet or WiFi connection.

Floor plan

• Bedrooms There’s a large master bedroom with a super king-size bed, two large wardrobes and a couple of sets of drawers. The ensuite is especially sleek, dripping in designer fittings. The second bedroom can be a single, or a not-very-roomy twin or double. It has its own bathroom but it’s not ensuite. The third ensuite double or twin bedroom is in an annexe with a separate door, which makes it ideal for staff. French doors lead to a private terrace overlooking a fruit orchard, and another terrace looks across to the hilltop town of Montescaglioso.
  
• Kitchen The modern open-plan kitchen is fitted with all the mod cons, including a large fridge-freezer with an ice-maker and drinking water. Enjoy filter coffee, and wine straight from a cooler.
  
• Living room The spacious sitting room has a large TV and cosy sofa and armchairs. There’s an open stone fireplace with logs available in winter.
  
• Dining room In sun-kissed Basilicata, you’ll probably want to dine alfresco on the terrace, but there is a black glass extendable table in the kitchen which can comfortably seat six.
  
• Poolside Six cushioned loungers and plenty of rattan tables and chairs to suit your mood, whether you fancy a suntrap or a shaded spot under the umbrella. There’s also an outdoor shower, toilet and changing area.
• Private parking There’s secure parking for a few cars on the gravel driveway.