Basilicata Al Volo in Brindisi Montagna, a hostel with a view
Basilicata Al Volo is a small hostel-hotel in a former school in Brindisi Montagna, Basilicata, with a panoramic garden, large rooms with private bathrooms and shared spaces. It suits anyone exploring the inland of Basilicata by bike or car, as a family or a group. Less so if you want flawless service.
Written by Valeria Romano
Published
Mapiola is a travel blog: this is not the official website of Basilicata Al Volo.
Where Basilicata Al Volo is and how to get there
Basilicata Al Volo is in Brindisi Montagna, in Basilicata, on Largo San Giacomo. Guests describe it as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, quiet and with a lovely atmosphere even when you simply stroll around the town.
Guests call it a good starting point for the inland of Basilicata, close to the Lucanian Dolomites and the Grancia park, where a show is staged that one guest saw during their stay.
For guests coming from far away, the listing mentions a paid shuttle to Salerno airport. Otherwise, a car is the best option. Opinions on parking are mixed, and I come back to that below.
What the rooms and spaces are like
The building is a former school converted into a hostel, and it shows in a good way, with generous spaces inside and out. The rooms are large, each with a private bathroom, and several are suited to families.
The focus here is less on refinement and more on space, simplicity and cleanliness. Many guests talk about very clean rooms and fragrant linen, with large family-style rooms and apartments.
- The rooms. Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer, sheets and towels included. Some have a kitchen and a fridge.
- Shared spaces. A common room, a shared kitchen and a bar, plus a large garden with a barbecue.
- Fun. One guest mentions billiards, table football and even a beer tap.
- Children and pets. The listing mentions a play area and a pet-friendly property.
What guests say about Basilicata Al Volo
The Google rating is 4.5 out of 5, from 105 reviews. The positive reviews are plentiful and say much the same things.
- The host. He is the element mentioned most. Many describe him as very kind, quick to give information before arrival and good at making you feel at home.
- The view. The panoramic garden looks out over the Grancia, and more than one guest calls it beautiful.
- Breakfast. Good and satisfying, buffet or Italian style.
- Dinner. One guest had dinner on the property with local produce and very good meat.
- Value for money. Some find it very good value given the location.
What to know before you book
This is not a place for anyone expecting city-hotel service. The criticisms mostly come from people who expected a more precise organisation.
One guest arrived in the afternoon to find the booking had not been noticed, and the room was only ready after a long wait and without much of an apology. Another, who had booked lunch, left after a long wait without eating. Someone also flagged parking as the only downside, while praising the kindness of the staff.
| What works | What to know |
|---|---|
| Large rooms, each with a bathroom | Simple, hostel-style set-up |
| Panoramic garden and space to socialise | Parking does not suit everyone |
| Very helpful host | Some slips with bookings and waiting times |
| Shared kitchen and good breakfast | Lunch and dinner need arranging in advance |
My advice is simple. Write or call before you arrive, confirm the time and, if you want to eat there, let them know in advance.
Who it suits
I would choose Basilicata Al Volo for a family or a group of friends touring Basilicata by car or bike, who prefer space, a garden and a homely atmosphere to formal service. The listing also mentions bike hire, in an area known for cycling.
I would not recommend it to anyone who wants a reception that is always staffed, anyone arriving at fixed times, or anyone who puts great weight on easy parking. For a one-night stay with a late arrival, it is worth saying so clearly in advance.
What to see nearby and where to go next
Brindisi Montagna is a good base for the Lucanian Dolomites and the Grancia park. From the hostel you can take in the village at a relaxed pace and set off on walks or bike rides.
If you carry on your journey, in the same region you will find Hotel Theotokos in Viggiano and B&B ZIA YAYA in Cersuta. If you head down into Calabria, there is B&B Le Gorgonie in Tortora Marina. I can only give you the names and villages of these places.
Passionate about travel and about the kind of places that turn a getaway into something unforgettable. I love writing about hotels, country houses and charming hideaways, helping every traveller find the perfect place to rest and feel at home.
