I am so grateful I stumbled across this amazing place on the internet! I was wanting something special as my birthday was on Mother’s Day this year. We met Martine at a lovely bar in Tursi and shared a drink then she showed us the way up the mountain to this ancient village. As we entered through the arched terrace I was so excited! But when Martine swung open the courtyard door It took my breath away - the styling and decorating is incredible. Entering the apartment I felt like I was in a fairytale - this lovely rustic place was more than I was expecting! Did I mention the views???
I just had the most amazing vacation at the Orangerie Retreat in La Rabatana, Basilicata! This place is incredible. I stayed in the Mandarine, a 1000 year old building that is as beautiful as it is old. The thought and attention to detail in this apartment are just incredible. Make sure to have Martine show you the “before” photos when you stay here, you will be even more astounded at what she has created! The views from the apartment are spectacular - it is impossible not to fall in love with it. We packed so much into this vacation, from visiting abandoned churches and convents, to 6th century BC Greek ruins, to going to the abandoned town of Craco, to enjoying languid days at the exquisite local beaches. The local cuisine is fabulous, as is the local wine. Martine made sure the calendar was as full as we wanted it to be, with really cool things to see and do. Evenings were spent with glasses of wine enjoyed either in the candlelit Arab archway or taking in the nighttime view from the opposite balcony, which is also stunningly beautiful. I loved that Tursi and La Rabatana are very low tourist places. I didn’t see a single tour bus while there. Everything was so authentic, it was easy to feel a part of the local life and have a completely different travel experience. I am looking forward to a return trip, hopefully sooner rather than later. When you read the guest book you will see that everyone else is too! It’s hard to imagine not coming back here - Martine is just wonderful and this place is an absolute treasure. I feel so lucky to have found it ❤️ …
I have stayed at The Orangery Retreat 3 times as I keep being drawn back to its rustic and classic beauty and also due to the host Martine. Each time I have stayed, Martine has thoroughly spoiled us with her outstanding cooking using all local produce. The way she has designed & restored these beautiful apartments creates the most cosy & romantic atmosphere, surrounded by rustic Italian architecture, you feel like you're in a time gone by. Highly recommend!!
Wonderful stay with Martine at The Mandarine. Beautiful location and totally relaxing. Fabulous host who was really helpful with ideas is places to visit. Views are beautiful from the Mandarine with Rabatana full of history and atmosphere.
From the moment I received Martine's email, I knew this was going to be a spectacular experience, and it was ! The Bergamot Suite was luscious and practical. Goodies to eat in the fridge, wines to choose from, central heating (!) and a huge cast iron claw foot tub, surrounded by candles. A full kitchen and comfortable bed completes this lovely space. This is a place to sit and read, relax and count your lucky stars! The view from the patio and terrace is something out of this world. Tursi was so welcoming and very close to The Badlands, as well as the coast. If you're in this part of the world, do not miss this opportunity to stay at the Orangery! Thanks Martine for all the thoughtful touches and making my stay so memorable!
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