Tenuta Donna Maria: A Sustainable Oasis Near Matera

Less than a half-hour drive from historic Matera, that magical city of the Sassi in Basilicata, lies a hidden gem nestled in the countryside: Tenuta Donna Maria. A place where history, nature, and sustainable hospitality come together. Here, on the land of her ancestors, Maria Giura Longo (or Mariella, as her friends call her) lovingly runs an organic farm, small-scale lodging, and a restaurant.

This isn’t just any agriturismo. It’s a place with a soul and a story that goes back generations.

Staying at the estate: rooms & apartments

Tenuta Donna Maria has 9 double rooms, 5 of which have private bathrooms in the main building, and 4 double rooms in 2 apartments with shared kitchens and bathrooms. All are comfortably and functionally furnished with:

• free Wi-Fi
• air conditioning
• floor heating
• a hair dryer and hair care products

Breakfast is included and consists of fresh, local, and homemade products. Think artisanal bread, freshly picked fruit, homemade jam, and organic eggs from our own chickens.

Perfect for those seeking peace and quiet, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to travel sustainably.

A farm with a mission

The farm runs entirely on renewable energy thanks to solar panels and a photovoltaic system. Not only is extra virgin olive oil produced here, but also:

• pomegranates
• figs
• quinces
• locally grown vegetables
• legumes
• almonds

Everything is grown organically, with care for the soil and biodiversity. You can taste the difference. Donna Maria is affiliated with the international network WWOOF for sustainable agriculture.

Waking up in the San Giuliano Nature Reserve

What makes Tenuta Donna Maria so unique? Its location. The estate borders the San Giuliano Regional Nature Reserve, a protected area surrounding a reservoir built in the 1950s. It has since become a true paradise for nature lovers, with dozens of species of waterfowl and land birds, rare flora, and plenty of peace and quiet. You can walk right into the reserve from the farm.

A history dating back to the 17th century

The story of Tenuta Donna Maria begins at “Masseria di San Francesco al Bradano,” once owned by Franciscan monks. In the second half of the 19th century, it was purchased by Mariella’s great-great-grandfather, Pietro Giura Longo. The estate has remained in the family ever since. The current estate is named after Grandmother Maria Sarra. The original silo still stands, a silent tribute to the past.

The Power of Women in Leadership

Mariella is the fifth generation on this land, and the first woman to both run the farm and actually live there. After the death of her father Raffaele (a historian, writer, and member of parliament), she returned from England to carry on the family business. Check out my interview with Mariella on YouTube.

“I didn’t just want to manage this country; I wanted to be a part of it. To care for nature, for the people who come here, and for our planet.”

A mission that is evident in everything: from the food to the way you’re welcomed here.

Il Rosmarino Restaurant : Pick, Cook, Enjoy

The restaurant Il Rosmarino follows the simple yet ingenious concept of “pick and eat.” What’s served depends on the season and the day’s harvest:

• vegetables from the organic garden
• eggs from our own chickens
• wild herbs
• pasta made from local Senatore Cappelli wheat
• homemade preserves and olive oil

There is no set menu, but there are always vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Guests staying at the farm have priority, but other visitors are also welcome by reservation.

Wellness & Yoga in Nature

La Mandorla: Spa & Wellness

From November 1 through April 30, you can visit the small but lovely La Mandorla wellness center:

• Turkish steam bath
• sauna
• jacuzzi
• relaxation area
• Massages and treatments by professional therapists

L’Ulivo: Yoga & Events

An old storage room has been transformed into a multipurpose hall for:

• yoga and meditation
• movie nights and concerts
• workshops and retreats

With room for 100 people, this is the ideal venue for anyone looking to organize a special event surrounded by nature.

Local products to take home

Would you like to relive the flavors of Tenuta Donna Maria at home? At the farm shop (and also in Matera itself), you’ll find:

• Senatore Cappelli pasta
• extra virgin olive oil
• honey
• pickled vegetables
• seasonal fruit

Good to know: The products are also shipped internationally.

Sustainable Enjoyment in Basilicata

Whether you’re coming to relax, go for a walk, enjoy good food, or simply unwind, Tenuta Donna Maria is a place you’ll never forget. Authentic, sustainable, and warm. And with a strong connection between people, nature, and the past.