We left Alberobello today for Matera. Our first stop was at Polignano a Mare - a small coastal town built on 200 metre-high limestone cliffs above the Adriatic Sea. This was a delightful town with spectacular views and no foreign tourists. Nicknamed the 'Pearl of the Adriatic Sea', Polignano a Mare is characterised by a jaggered coastline, crystal-clear waters and partially submerged sea caves. It's famous son was Domenico Modugno who wrote and sang the massive international hit 'Volare'.

A stop for lunch in Monopoli - a traditional fishing village overlooking the Mediterranean Sea . And I thought this was just a board game! Lunch was a typical Italian style affair in a small, traditional family run restaurant, that is, food just kept on coming over a two hour period.

Crossing the 'ankle' of Italy, we reached the extraordinary city of Matera. Before entering the city we drove to the cliffs on the other side of the ravine for a spectacular view of the city. The whole area is riddled with man made stone caves, or 'Sassi'. The Sassi of Matera, located within the ancient town, are reputed to be the oldest inhabited settlement in Italy and is a UNESCO world heritage listed area; described as the "most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement". The new city of Matera sits above the Sassi.

Our hotel, Le Grotto della Civita, sits right on the edge of the ravine in the most ancient Sassi area and our 'rooms' are caves. But not just any old cave! Beautifully restored and tastefully furnished, this is truly a memorable place to stay.

We have two nights in Matera and I can't wait to explore the Sassi tomorrow.