Surrounded by the rolling landscapes of Le Marche, Casale Arcevia enjoys a beautiful rural setting only half an hour from the Adriatic coast. The converted farmhouse is part of a working organic farm producing extra virgin olive oil – tastings can of course be arranged.
Drive along the winding roads to reach tiny fortified villages, pretty churches and medieval castles. The area also offers wonderful walking opportunities through woodland or by the streams with waterfalls and bathing spots. The nearest main village is Arcevia (10km) with its traditional shops, restaurants and Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Arcevia. As you explore the area, try delicious Le Marche fare in local restaurants such as cheeses and salami accompanied by good wine.
This region may be away from the tourist crowds yet there is so much to see and experience. The Frasassi Caves, for example, are only half an hour by car with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, considered to be one of Italy’s greatest attractions.
Spend the day by the Adriatic with Senigallia (37km) and its stunning 13km-long beach, the Velvet Beach, with its shallow waters, sandy shores and seaside promenade (hire bikes for a spectacular ride along the coast). Look out for a range of vibrant events taking place across the summer as well as plenty of restaurants, some by the seafront, serving seafood and other traditional dishes of Le Marche.
Another superb day out is Urbino (52km), a walled medieval city with incredible Renaissance architecture, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. From the Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, home of the National Gallery of Le Marche, to the cathedral with its magnificent façade, the town is a must-see for Italophiles seeking culture, history and art.
You can even reach Umbria from this location. The picture-perfect village of Gubbio (66km) is just over an hour away, famed for its medieval charm and annual festival, Le Corso dei Ceri. Try truffles in a local osteria, then tour the town as you admire its cobblestone lanes, vibrant street art and gorgeous main square with incredible views of the surrounding Umbrian landscapes.
The Region
Le Marche, a hidden gem in the heart of Italy, is a region that encapsulates the essence of both tradition and natural beauty.
Nestled between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Le Marche offers an authentic Italian experience that is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours. With its charming villages, rich history, and diverse landscapes, Le Marche is a destination that beckons those seeking a quieter, more authentic Italian experience.
