Country house in Southern Italy near Matera, with panoramic views, looking after our dogs cats and chickens on our small holding

About this assignment

Our setting with a modern house set in a 14-acre smallholding of olive and fruit trees would suit a couple who enjoy rural life, are self-reliant, and are looking for a relaxing quiet setting. We are located on a hillside that is a mixture of agricultural and woodland. Although we are a fairly isolated house, the local town is only a 10-minute drive away, and the immediate area is a small community of similar small holdings with friendly neighbours. This is not a touristy area so the ability to speak Italian would be helpful but not essential. If you are after peace and quiet with few distractions other than the spectacular views across the Basilicata landscape this could be the place for you. There are hilltop towns to explore. Matera (European City of Culture 2019) is 30 mins drive away and the coast is only 40 minutes’ drive away.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

As well as the house, we have 2 dogs, 2 cats and 5 chicken who all need love, care and attention, and feeding. They are all country animals who live mainly outside. Only our two little dogs, Fred and Herb, come into the house mainly when they want a bit of attention. They are generally walked twice a day and spend the rest of their time outdoors free to roam across the hill. They have beds outside where they sleep.
Our two little black cats are curious and would enjoy company, but they live outdoors and are not allowed in the house.
The hens have their run and, as with most rural areas, need to be secured at night to ensure they stay safe until morning.

Feeding care: Both the cats and the dogs are fed twice a day, on a mixture of wet and dry food. The chickens are allowed to forage but are shut in their coop at night. Collect eggs daily.

What are the good features of the property and location

We have recently completed the building of our spacious modern open plan home. The house is fully equipped with modern appliances to provide comfortable and easy living. The underfloor heating and hot water are both powered by a super-efficient wood-burning stove. We built the house among our orchards of olive and fruit trees that provide a great playground for the dogs and cats. We have wide verandas with views across the landscape of Basilicata: an ideal rural retreat. We have Wi-Fi connection that would enable remote working.
The area is dotted with hilltop towns each with their own character, history, castles, churches and views. The local city of Matera is also close by.

What does the house sitter need to consider before applying for this assignment

Our home is in a small Italian community that is predominantly agricultural and therefore may not be suited to those who like the hustle and bustle of city-life. To stay here you would need a car as we are 10 mins drive from the main road which has limited public transport. There are no refuse collections in our area and so all refuse needs to be taken to our local town to the collection point for disposal.
As we have only recently finished our building, our immediate landscape is still recovering and may be muddy in parts. Strong outdoor footwear is recommended.

Can I bring my own pets?

No, sorry.

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