ROMANTIC APARTMENT IN VILLA WITH OLIVE GROVE IN HISTORIC HILL TOP TOWN

We would highly recommend renting this lovely house which looks even better in real life than in the pictures on the website. We really felt like we were staying in a home rather than a soulless apartment. The views are beautiful and it was good to have the option of the balcony or the roof terrace depending on whether we wanted the coolness of the shade or sun to lie in. The kitchen was the best equipped we have seen in our travels so far which was good as it is such a treat to cook with all the lovely Italian food. Also having the bakery a few doors down meant we could get fresh bread every day. Irsina itself was lovely and everyone was very friendly and welcoming. We found all the information about local areas useful and had lots of day trips out to the surrounding towns and villages. We plan to return in the not too distant future and would definatley recommend it to family and friends.

We have rented many places in Europe and the US and this one is at the top! It is a beautifully decorated and equipped home. All rooms are very large, airy and comfortable. The kitchen is so well equipped, one could cook for a banquet. The view from the balcony is of the rolling hills and includes our favorite group of small farm buildings. Parking was easy and always available just a short walk to the house with easy access to the highway to all the other interesting small villages as well as Matera and Gravina in Puglia. We highly recommend staying here!

After previous travels to different areas in Italy, including Sicilia, we wanted to see the real country-side in a not too touristically known part of the country. In Basilicata we found the real country as we imagined it from books and movies any decennia ago. Irsina is really a good start for your trip in this hidden and secluded part of the South.
Metaponto and Trantano are at 80 Kms to the south, Molfetta, Uvro di Puglia, Castel del Monte at 100 Kms to the east, even so the south of Bari with the lovely harbour-town of Monopoli.
The trullys of Puglia are at 1 hour driving to the south-east and the village mountains of Castelmezzano, Accentura or Aliano (Carlo Levi)
can be found at 1,5 hour to the western direction.
But the chaotical medieval village of the "Storico Centro" of Irsina joined to the visit of Matera (30 Kms) will help you understand the book "Christ never passed Eboli".....
Those who want to jump with both feet into the daily life of an historical village where life changes slowly to the rithm of decades,
they will enjoy this city and its surroundings.
Historical centre at the frontdoor and countryside with views for more than 50 Kms at the backside of the house.
Like living in the fields and in the city together, with local stores at a few steps away. Local bar and 2 restaurants on Piazza Garibaldi.
With prices not to compare to any other city......in Italy or abroad !
Bakery at 50 meters with excellent bread....and local wines !
Say "Bonjiorno" to the folks you meet in the street and they will be pleased to help you find wathever you need.
According to the village, do not expect high level luxury, but be sure that everything you need is provided with lot of attention to allow a really good stay. Time to relax and to kick-down a bit.
Due to its position and the surrounding, this house might be more destinated to couples without playing children.
Leaving your car at the Piazza and walking the 200 M thru the narrow street is really no problem. There is no security-problem at all.
We loved it and we will remind it forever. And maybe come back ?
Frieda & Jacques Swinnen (Belgium)
May 2011