Situated in Bernalda (a province of Matera), a charming hilltop town in the region of Basilicata, Palazzo Margherita quickly infused new life into the abandoned 15th-century castle built during the Kingdom of Naples and became the address that put Bernalda on the luxury traveller’s wish list. We always love a good story, and this property feeds our curiosity and intrigue for travel.
The property
Francis Ford Coppola, renowned for directing The Godfather, stumbled upon this derelict 19th-century palazzo while discovering his roots in Bernalda. With its former glory graciously restored, the 9-suite palazzo now has the feel of a family residence; each nook and accessory anticipates the needs and desires of its guests. You’re practically sleeping in the hands of creative genius and the in-house staff match the standard with heartfelt hospitality, care, and attention. Upon request, the property can be rented for exclusive use, perfect for a multi-generational family holiday. Cooking lessons, complimentary bicycles and breakfast is included daily.
The palazzo is located just 15 minutes from the coast with a long stretch of white sandy beaches offering guests a different way to experience the south of Italy as it is within easy reach of Matera while also a comfortable drive to the highlights of Puglia.
Around the property
With each member of the Coppola family taking to the drawing board to design their own room, the palazzo feels like a home. Indeed, it’s a challenge to choose where to lounge around; in the comfort of your suite, on a sunlounger by the pool, or in the cinema room where the director’s handpicked selection of films can be enjoyed on a large screen (perfect for a rainy afternoon). Fresh snacks are available all day long in the kitchen and guests can lend the chef a hand while preparing lunch (everything is made fresh every single day). The secluded outdoor pool is accessible only to guests and is surrounded by beautiful gardens protected by the Italian Cultural Heritage Department, perfect for an evening aperitif or digestif at the end of the evening. The lighting is theatrical here, borderline romantic as if someone important were to arrive.
However, the property is not closed off from the outside world; from the hotel’s street-facing Cinecittà Bar you can enjoy drinks and snacks and watch local life and passersby. There is also a pool bar, a family bar for intimate dining, and an eat-in kitchen with cooking demonstrations. And of course, we must encourage you to head out and explore the sea nearby as well as the ancient city of Matera (Europe’s Capital of Culture for 2019) and a plethora of adventure sports and hiking trails.
Interiors
Garden Suites 1 to 3 embody the elegance of an Italian country house – soft colors, bright and airy with traditional interiors that open directly onto the courtyard garden and fountain. Suites 4 to 9 were designed and decorated by the Coppola family, where frescoed walls and ceilings are complemented by a subdued sexiness, visible in lavish décor, in-room fireplaces, and tasteful textile – Sophia Coppola designed Suite 4 together with Jacques Grange; the feminine space is bathed in natural light to bring out the hand-painted frescoes and are well-appointed with thoughtful, contemporary comforts. The ‘Juliette’ style balcony overlooks the courtyard and the regal ensuite has a steam shower and clawfoot bathtub. The floors feature original, eclectic tiles that perfectly balance with the furniture and lighting. Live the dream.
View the Gallery
Location
Corso Umberto I 64, 75012 Bernalda (MT)
Tel: +39 0835 549 060
www.thefamilycoppolahideaways.com/en/palazzo-margherita
