Puglia
Le Marche
Holiday homes in Le Marche – a surprisingly versatile region
Le Marche, or The Marches as we also say in Dutch, is a surprisingly versatile region. Locals sometimes jokingly say that you can find all of Italy in one region here, and although that might be a bit of an exaggeration, the region certainly has everything you need for a varied holiday.
Cities and sights in Le Marche
Thanks to its location stretching along the east coast, Le Marche boasts, first and foremost, a magnificent coastline with something for everyone. You will find fine sandy beaches that sometimes extend far into the sea, making it a great destination for children. But you will also find rocky beaches and cliffs, which make for spectacular scenery. The most beautiful beaches can be found near Senigallia, at the foot of Monte Conero, and near San Benedetto del Tronto, on the so-called Riviera delle Palme, the palm coast, where you almost feel as though you are in distant, tropical climes.
Furthermore, there are many photogenic medieval villages with charming squares and atmospheric streets and alleys. Many of these borghi are situated high on a hill, offering stunning views both at the destination and on the way there. A few recommendations are Corinaldo, Gradara, Cingoli, Offida, Numana, Sirolo, and Urbania, but you will find many more gems in every part of Le Marche where it is wonderful to wander around.
You also shouldn't miss Urbino, the birthplace of Raphael. This university city is a delightful mix of culture, good restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere. Visit, among other things, Raphael's birthplace and the Palazzo Ducale, where the Dukes of Montefeltro, who held sway in Urbino and the surrounding area, once resided. The palazzo also houses the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, with an extensive art collection.
Other cities worth a visit are Ancona, Pesaro, Fano, Loreto (with a magnificent church where the House of Mary can be seen), Fabbriano (famous for its paper), and Ascoli Piceno. One of the most famous sights is the Grotte di Frasassi, with gigantic chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Nearby, you will also find a temple that appears to be miraculously embraced by a cave.
Ancona is the capital of Le Marche, and it is home to the airport where you can fly directly from Düsseldorf, Weeze, or Brussels. Boats depart from the port of Ancona towards Croatia and Greece. The city owes its name to the Greek word for bow, which refers to the city's origins: it arose in a headland on the coast. Ancona is best explored on foot, strolling past the historic buildings and old squares. From the highest point of the city, you have a beautiful view of the center of Ancona and the harbor.
Ascoli Piceno, named after the Piceni, is considered by some to be one of the most beautiful cities in Le Marche. Here you will find both Gothic and Baroque buildings, mostly constructed from light limestone. Church enthusiasts will be delighted here: the city boasts no fewer than 27. Moreover, the old streets offer stunning views of the mountains. The green olives from the hills surrounding Ascoli Piceno are a delicacy in themselves, but filled with a mixture of meat and cheese, coated in a layer of dough, and then deep-fried, they are a true delicacy. A good accompaniment to the aperitivo: Olive all'Ascolana.
Walking and cycling in Le Marche
In the mood for some action? In Le Marche, you can follow stunning walking and cycling routes in many places. You can also hike and mountain bike in the Monte Conero Natural Park and in the Monti Sibillini. The Monti Sibillini are a true paradise for hikers. They are different in every season: in winter there is snow, in spring the fields are dotted with flowers, in summer sunflowers flourish, and in autumn they offer a beautiful palette of brown, yellow, and red. There are very many different trails possible, for both beginners and advanced. A beautiful one is the one from Rifugio Sibilla to the summit of Mount SybilYou can choose a steep route that leads you to the top within an hour. However, there is also a somewhat gentler route for the less trained. In both cases, you pass the Grote della Sibilla, an ancient cave.
There are also many options for cyclists in Le Marche. For advanced riders, the area around Monte Carpegna is particularly interesting. The famous road cyclist Marco Pantani used to train here, and consequently, you will find a number of treacherous climbs. Both road cyclists and mountain bikers will find plenty to enjoy here. It is no coincidence that Monte Carpegna was part of the Giro d'Italia in 2014, with the riders covering the section between Foligno and Montecopiolo. Don't forget to climb Monte Catria, Monte Nerone, and Monte Petrano! Make sure to get good advice on which routes are best to take, as not every climb or descent is equally suitable.
Delicious Le Marche
Food lovers will be delighted by authentic dishes in charming trattorias where you can eat deliciously for little money. For example, try the vincisgrassi, a type of lasagna; pasta with truffles from Acqualagna; and maccheroncini (di Campofilone), pasta with fish and seafood on the beach. Accompany this with a glass of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, a special white wine that tastes just as surprising as this part of Italy itself. One holiday is probably not enough to taste all that beauty…
Curious about the other regions of Italy? Read the typical characteristics to make a well-considered choice.
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FAQ
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Le Marche feels like a well-kept Italian secret. You drive through golden hills, past sunflower fields and medieval villages where life still flows peacefully. The Adriatic coast is always within reach, but just beyond the beaches you find silence, space, and a hospitality that makes you feel right at home. It is the perfect region for those who love authentic Italy without the crowds of the well-known hotspots.
In April, May, and June, Le Marche blossoms fully: nature is fresh and green, temperatures are mild, and the villages come to life. September and October are at least as beautiful, with warm late summer light and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. The summer months are lively and ideal for beach lovers, but even then, you will find plenty of peace and quiet off the coast.
Absolutely. Many houses are situated on spacious, green estates or hilltops where children can play and explore freely. Think of large gardens, cozy terraces, and sometimes even a playground or football pitch. The region itself is child-friendly, with quiet beaches, castles, caves, and plenty of spots to discover something new together.
Le Marche surprises around every corner. Admire the Frasassi Caves, stroll through the streets of Urbino or Fermo, or enjoy a day at the beach on the Conero coast with its impressive rock formations and clear blue sea. The smaller villages, such as Corinaldo or Offida, are also gems. And don't forget: the food here is delicious, from vincisgrassi to fresh olive oil and local wines.
Yes, absolutely. All our holiday accommodations have a beautifully landscaped swimming pool, often with a panoramic view of the hills. Perfect for waking up peacefully in the morning or for cooling off after a day at the beach or exploring the culture.
Le Marche is a wonderful region to discover with your dog: vast hills, peaceful walking paths, and plenty of nature to get lost in. Pets are allowed at several holiday homes, including both agriturismo properties and villas, providing ample opportunities for a relaxing holiday with your four-legged friend. Would you like to know which accommodations suit you best? We are happy to help you find the perfect fit.
Yes, there are several holiday homes entirely geared towards families. Think of spacious bedrooms, safe outdoor spaces, and often even extras such as a playground or children's pool. The surroundings are also playful and diverse, ideal for families who like to combine culture and nature.
Absolutely! There is often a spot available, so it's worth taking a look. Would you like us to help you look for the best last-minute option? Just let us know. Before you know it, you'll be in Italy enjoying the sun, the food, and the view.