The Marches, this wonderful region in central Italy, it is not only by chance that it is otherwise known as "Italy in one region", where miles and miles of beaches and mountains exist together in perfect harmony, where one can still take in an atmosphere of dense tradition and culture and where it is possible to experience the most unique tastes in the world. For centuries this region has existed, its hidden treasures undiscovered to the world. Its unique landscapes, and the hospitality of its people, are refreshing to anybody visiting this area. Ideally situated with the Sibillini mountains on one side and the Adriatic sea on the other one has the best of both worlds, skiing during the winter months, the beach during the summer and the wonderful countryside in between. A heaven brimming with cultural treasures to explore, hidden in the medieval hilltop towns, a maze of narrow streets, wide piazzas, high stone walls and majestic towers. Le Marche's picturesque villages are full of ancient Churches, Abbeys and Monasteries, all beautifully preserved over the years. Its sunny hills, marked by rows of vines and olive groves overlooking green valleys, induces a sense of peace and tranquillity, so much so that you will want to stay for the rest of your life.

Macerata Opera House

 

MONTE CONERO, just south of Ancona, provides the only really rugged coastline in the Marche, rising spectacularly out of the sea to a height of just over 500 meters. Its position half way up the Italian peninsula has made it an important meeting point for many species of northern and southern European maritime flora; the park boasts over a thousand species of wild plants, as well as a rich bird life. And if that's not enough, the views out over the sea are stunning.

Monte Conero

The "Gola della Rossa-Frasassi" regional park, in the area of Genga, is a series of towering limestone gorges which provide the rocky habitat for several golden eagles as well as peregrine falcons and eagle owls. The FRASASSI CAVES, in the heart of the area, are the longest and among the most interesting in Italy with a 240 m high central chamber which is large enough to comfortably hold Milan cathedral. If you want to go for a "journey to the centre of the Earth", this is just the right place.

Frasassi Caves

Abbadia di Fiastra

Le Marche Guide (click on the above image for more details)