Matera Cave Viewpoint Hiking Guide

📍 Best Route to Belvedere Murgia Timone The famous cave viewpoint is marked as a parking lot on maps, but the real gems are the hidden caves a short hike downhill. Here’s the smartest way to get there: 1️⃣ Start at Ponte Tibetano della Gravina (Tibetan Bridge) Cross the 186m suspension bridge (thrilling but safe). From here, hike 10 mins uphill to the caves (vs. 2+ hours from the parking lot!). 2️⃣ Alternative (Longer) Route Google Maps suggests a road walk, but after the roundabout, there’s no sidewalk—unsafe! Instead, take the dirt trails beside the road (look for worn paths). Pass the Sculpture Park La Palomba (steel art in ancient ruins—cool photo spot!). 🕳️ Cave Explorations Along the way, you’ll find abandoned caves with traces of past dwellers (mattresses, stone walls). Off-season? Many cave churches are closed (peek through fences). ⏱️ Time Management Old Town: Can be explored in 1 hour (short but stunning). Hike Timing: Start by 3 PM to return before dusk . #Matera #HikingItaly #HiddenCaves #AdventureTravel