Scenic walk around Matera – loop tour

The Scenic walk around Matera – loop tour offers a moderately challenging hike through the unique landscape surrounding Matera. You will traverse the deep Gravina ravine, rocky limestone cliffs, and elevated plateaus, providing diverse perspectives of the historic city. The trail, which is 6.9 miles (11.2 km) long with 1143 feet (348 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 24 minutes to complete. A highlight is crossing the wooden suspension bridge (Ponte Tibetano della Gravina) over the Gravina stream, offering a unique experience.

This loop tour is classified as moderate, so you should have good fitness and sure-footedness. The initial descent from parking areas can be steep and potentially slippery, especially if wet, making good shoes essential for your safety and comfort. The path includes sections of hiking trail, unpaved and paved stretches, and even some road and street sections, so be prepared for varied surfaces.

What makes this trail particularly notable is its combination of natural beauty and historical significance. You will see panoramic views of Matera's ancient Sassi districts from across the canyon, offering iconic photographic opportunities. The route also allows for close encounters with ancient cave dwellings and numerous rock-hewn churches, such as the Chiesa Rupestre Sant'Agnese, all within the protected Murgia Materana Park.