The Ultimate Basilicata Agriturismo Experience:
Our Stay at Chin Up – Nido del Falco
If you’re planning a trip to Basilicata and looking for an authentic, nature-immersive experience, “Chin Up ! Nido del Falco” is a hidden gem you’ll want to add to your itinerary. This eco-friendly agriturismo combines zero-mile cuisine, sustainable living, and genuine southern Italian hospitality, all set against the raw beauty of Basilicata’s hills.
What started as a simple lunch with friends turned into one of the most memorable overnight stays I’ve had in Italy. Here’s everything you need to know about what Chin Up is, what they stand for, and why this place deserves a spot on every travel lover’s list.
How to get there
The structure is located in the montainous areaof Sellata, approximately 20 km from Potenza city.
By car (recommended)
- Take the recommenden exit POTENZA OVEST (Potenza West)
- Set your GPS for the town Pignola for initial navigation
- Once you pass Pignola, you will begin the ascent.
- The final stretch involves about 7 km of mountain switchbacks. After few turns, you can set the GPS diectely to “Chin Up! Al Nido del Falco”, which will lead you to the location at 1300 meters above the sea level
Our experience began with lunch, and it was nothing short of a culinary celebration of Basilicata’s traditions. Chin Up is known for its 100% bio, zero-mile food, meaning everything is grown on-site or sourced locally from trusted farms. You can taste the love and authenticity in every bite: typical cheeses (caciocavallo podolico and goat cheese), fresh made Lucanian pasta, local and cured meat, and don’t forget the crunchy and tasty Peperone Crusco which can be indeed found only in Basilicata!
What We Ate
Peperone crusco – Basilicata’s most iconic specialty, crunchy, lightly salted, and unforgettable.
Antipasto of local products – A colorful spread of seasonal, handcrafted foods.
Ravioli with cacio cheese cream, walnuts & speck – Rich, homemade, and delicately balanced.
BBQ lamb – Tender, smoky, and a true expression of the region’s pastoral culture.
Grilled provolone cheese – Simple, rustic, and absolutely delicious.Lunch at Chin Up feels like sitting at a big family table. We even ended up making new friends and toasting together—because in Basilicata, sharing food means sharing life.
If you’re searching for a unique accommodation in Basilicata, Chin Up’s wooden cabins with Finnish hot tubs are a dream. My friend Simona and I stayed in one of these cozy cabins, surrounded
by nature and complete silence.
After lunch our host Tonino, took us to meet 2 little goats. Tonino told us that he prctically rescued those 2 goats and took them here at Chin Up were they live free nd happy. This story mae me love this place even more. And then there were the gogs! Paola usually let them out after the lunch time just to make sure the guests of the restaurant re not bothered by them. Guys they are so cute! There’s Ugo, there’s Remo
The Cabin
Our cabin was the only one with the Finnish hot tube with idromassage and cromotherapy outside, I loved so much soacking in there with all this unspoiled nature around, it was so peaceful and relaxing, truly the perfect gateaway from the daily life and the chaos of the city. All cabins consist of two bedroom, the twin and the master, then there is the bathroom, very spacious, with shower and everything you need. The style of the cabin is very minimalistic, the wood itself is a piece of design which mkes the atmosphere so cozy!
The Finnish hot tube
We spent the evening:
soaking in the peaceful atmosphere,
sipping wine outdoors in the hot tube with idromassage and cromotherapy,
and reconnecting with ourselves far from city noise.
Still full from our long lunch, we asked Tonino for something light—and he prepared a simple piadina that tasted heavenly in its simplicity.
The next morning, we stepped outside with coffee in hand, taking in the calm of the surrounding landscape. Breakfast was delicious, fresh, and homemade, another trait that defines Chin Up.
Before leaving, Paola connected us with Mr. Mimmo, a local guide, for a horseback ride in the forest. What made the experience even more special?
It ended up being a private tour, likely thanks to the heat that day.
Four friendly dogs joined the ride, running alongside our horses.
The two-hour trail was peaceful, scenic, and the perfect way to end our stay.
This activity is ideal for travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences in Basilicata.
What Chin Up – Nido del Falco Is All About
Chin Up isn’t just a farm stay or a restaurant—it’s a sustainable lifestyle project with a mission rooted in authenticity. Here are the core values that define the place:
🌱 Commitment to Zero-Mile, Organic Food
All meals are made with ingredients grown on-site or sourced locally, reducing environmental impact and supporting regional farmers.
🐐 Ethical Animal Care
Rescued animals, mindful farming, and deep respect for nature are central to their philosophy.
🤝 Community & Human Connection
Meals are shared, conversations flow naturally, and guests quickly become part of the Chin Up family. The name “Chin Up !” was added to the original “Nido del Falco” (The Falcon’s Nest). The managers explain that is an invitation to courage and a high-altitude toast of joy! (how lovely is that ?!)
🌿 A Sanctuary for Slow Living
Whether soaking in a hot tub under the stars or sipping morning coffee on a wooden porch, Chin Up encourages guests to reconnect with themselves and with nature. It’ an experience of digital “detox”, relazation, and fullimmersion in unspoiled nature, surrounded by ancientbeech and oak trees.
🔥 Authentic Basilicata Culture
Everything—from the food to the activities to the hospitality—reflects the true spirit of the region.
Why Chin Up Belongs on Your Basilicata Travel Itinerary
If you love:
farm-to-table food
sustainable travel
rustic, nature-immersive accommodations
authentic southern Italian hospitality
unique outdoor activities
…you will adore Chin Up – Nido del Falco.
It’s the kind of place that reminds you why travel matters: to connect, to slow down, to taste, and to feel.
