Rotondella​

Latest page update: 16 May 2025
By: Dion Protani

  Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Rotondella
Rotondella, a hill town in the Province of Matera, is known for its panoramic views over the Ionian coast and its historic centre. Local accommodation is mainly small residences, so for established hotels the best options are found along the nearby coastline.
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In Policoro, Hotel Hermes provides modern rooms, a restaurant and convenient access to the seafront, regularly praised for comfort and value (€€). Also in Policoro, Heraclea Hotel Residence features a pool, spacious rooms and leisure facilities, often noted for family-friendly services (€€). For a more resort-style stay, Hotel Marinagri offers direct beach access, wellness facilities and consistently positive guest feedback (€€€).

Where is

Where is Rotondella?
​The town of Rotondella is situated within the Province of Matera and has a population of 2,550 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 576 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 76 km². There are three hotels in the town centre while nearby places of interest include Nova Siri, Valsinni, Tursi, Senise and Chiaromonte. 
Comune di Rotondella
Province: Matera

Region: Basilicata

Population: 2,408 (in 2024 - source)

​​​​​​​​​Size: 77 km²

Elevation: 576 metres

Close by: Nova Siri, Valsinni, Tursi, Senise, Chiaromonte, Policoro​

Recommended stay: ​Best Western Hotel Imperiale (18 km)

What People Ask About Rotondella, Basilicata

Is Rotondella worth visiting?
Yes, Rotondella is worth visiting for its circular old town, known as the "balcony of the Ionian," offering views over the Gulf of Taranto. It is a small hilltop village with narrow streets, stone houses, and a distinctive spiral layout.
How do I get to Rotondella?
Rotondella is about 10 kilometres inland from the Ionian coast and 30 kilometres from Policoro. It is best reached by car via the SS106 Ionica and local roads. The nearest train station is at Policoro, with onward bus connections to Rotondella.
What are the main attractions in Rotondella?
Highlights include the historic centre with its spiral layout, the Mother Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, and viewpoints overlooking the Ionian Sea. Local traditions and food festivals are also part of the cultural experience.
When is the best time to visit Rotondella?
Spring and early autumn are the best times to visit, with clear skies and comfortable weather for walking through the old town and enjoying the views. Summer is warmer but coincides with local festivals.
How long should I stay in Rotondella?
A half-day visit is enough to explore the circular centre and viewpoints. Staying longer is an option if you want to combine the village with nearby Ionian coastal towns or countryside walks.
Related links

Discover

Discover Rotondella
Rotondella is located in the province of Matera in Basilicata, perched on a hill that overlooks the Ionian plain and the Gulf of Taranto. The town is often referred to as the “Balcony of the Ionian Sea” for its elevated position, which offers sweeping views of the coastline and surrounding countryside. Its historic centre is compact and circular, with narrow alleys, stone houses, and panoramic terraces that highlight its medieval layout.
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Among the main sights are the Mother Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and several small chapels that reflect the town’s religious traditions. The area around Rotondella is known for olive oil and wine production, supported by the fertile soils of the Metapontino plain. Its proximity to Policoro, Nova Siri, and the Ionian coast makes it a peaceful hilltop base within easy reach of the region’s beaches and archaeological sites.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Rotondella
  • Historic centre of Rotondella is a hilltop village characterised by winding streets, stone houses, and small piazzas that reflect its medieval origins. The town’s compact layout invites visitors to explore its traditional architecture and enjoy views over the surrounding hills and coastline. The quiet streets reveal a rich local history.
  • Chiesa Madre di San Nicola stands at the heart of Rotondella, featuring a simple façade and an interior decorated with religious artworks and altarpieces. The church plays a key role in the village’s spiritual and community life, hosting festivals and ceremonies throughout the year.
  • Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II serves as the social hub of Rotondella, lined with cafés and shops where locals meet. The square is a venue for markets and events, reflecting the village’s cultural traditions. From here, visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
  • Nearby natural walks offer routes through the hills and coastal areas around Rotondella. These trails pass through woodland, farmland, and along ridge lines, providing opportunities to experience the diverse landscapes of the region. Walking here reveals the rural character that shapes local life.
  • Guided cultural and nature tours combine exploration of Rotondella’s historic centre with visits to nearby natural sites. Local guides share stories about the village’s history, traditions, and environment. These tours often include tastings of regional foods and wines, offering a well-rounded experience of the area.

Tours and Activities

Rotondella Tours and Activities

Photo Gallery

Basilicata Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Basilicata

1. ​Matera
2. Craco
3. ​Maratea
4. Melfi 
5. Pietrapertosa 
6. ​Sant'Angelo Le Fratte
7. Venosa
8. Pollino National Park
9. ​Satriano di Lucania
10. Castelmezzano ​

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Basilicata

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Rotondella
By Rail: Rotondella does not have its own train station, but the nearest one is in Policoro, about 15 kilometres away, on the Taranto–Reggio Calabria line operated by Trenitalia. Regional trains connect Policoro to Taranto in approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and to Reggio Calabria in around 3 hours. From Policoro, local buses and taxis provide regular connections to Rotondella.

By Road: Rotondella is located in southern Basilicata, about 65 kilometres southeast of Matera. The drive takes roughly 1 hour via the SS407 and SS653. From Taranto, the distance is around 90 kilometres, with a journey time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes via the SS106. The town sits on a hill overlooking the Ionian coast, with public parking available near the lower part of the historic centre.

Nearest International Airports:
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  • Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport: Situated around 150 kilometres northwest of Rotondella, with a drive of about 2 hours and 15 minutes via the SS407. This is the most convenient airport, offering frequent domestic and international flights.
  • Brindisi Salento Airport: Located approximately 135 kilometres northeast, taking around 2 hours by car via the SS106. It provides several Italian and European connections.
  • Lamezia Terme International Airport: About 180 kilometres southwest, with a journey time of roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes via the A2 and SS653. It offers national and international services.

Private Transfers

Rotondella Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and direct way to travel to or from Rotondella, ideal for reaching this hilltop village without the need to drive or use public transport. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and taken straight to your destination by a professional local driver.

Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport and Brindisi Salento Airport both serve this part of Basilicata, with scenic routes passing through the Ionian countryside and the hills surrounding the Sinni Valley. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby towns such as Policoro, Nova Siri, and Tursi, or to destinations throughout Basilicata and Puglia.
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To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

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