Oliveto Estate

Leave the crowds behind: Discover Le Marche, Italy’s Best-Kept Secret

Recently voted in the top places to visit worldwide by ABTA, you’ll find one of the most unspoilt regions of Italy. Le Marche sits between the majestic Apennine Mountains and the shimmering Adriatic Sea, Le Marche is a hidden jewel of Italy, where rolling hills draped in vineyards meet golden, sunlit beaches. Steeped in tradition, this picturesque region offers an irresistible blend of breathtaking landscapes, centuries-old history, and mouthwatering cuisine and an authenticity that feels like stepping back in time. Unlike its more well-known neighbours such as Tuscany and Umbria, Le Marche remains delightfully under the radar, providing a truly authentic Italian experience far from the bustling tourist crowds.

Divided into five diverse provinces – Ascoli Piceno, Macerata, Fermo, Ancona, and Pesaro-Urbino – Le Marche brims with individuality. Each corner of this region tells a unique story through its architecture, festivals, and culinary traditions. And at the heart of it all are the Marchigiani, the warm and welcoming locals who make visitors feel like old friends. From ancient farmhouses to rustic Agriturismos, their hospitality is an invitation to savour not just the flavours of Le Marche but its soul. Here, Italy feels intimate—like a secret meant just for you.

Welcome to the real Italy, without the crowds.

If you’re looking for a destination that’s off the beaten path, offers a deeper connection to local life, and is as captivating as it is charming, then Le Marche should be at the top of your list. Here’s why:

Hidden Gem of Italy

Le Marche is an antidote to overtourism. This beautiful region is often overlooked by tourists heading to Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast, which makes it a rare find. You’ll be able to explore a part of Italy that still feels unspoiled, where you can really connect with the land and its people. Picture yourself strolling through the medieval streets of Ascoli Piceno, where the locals are always ready with a warm smile and a cup of espresso. Visit hilltop towns like Sarnano or Corinaldo where the pace of life is slower, and the experience is purely authentic—no crowds, just you and the heart of Italy.

Breathtaking, Diverse Landscapes

Whether you dream of exploring lush hillsides or lounging by the sea, Le Marche has it all. The Sibillini Mountains offer miles of hiking trails, where you’ll encounter breathtaking views, rugged beauty, and ancient villages like Norcia, known for its truffle delicacies. The coastline, with its stunning cliffs and quiet beaches, is perfect for a peaceful escape. Try the pristine beaches of Sirolo or Portonovo, where the crystal-clear waters invite you to relax in peace, far from the crowds.

Peaceful, Secluded Beaches

The Adriatic coast of Le Marche is known for its serene, uncrowded beaches. Away from the commercialized resorts, towns like Sirolo and Numana offer quiet, unspoiled stretches of sand, where you can dip your toes into the warm waters and relax without the noise of big crowds. The Riviera del Conero, with its dramatic cliffs and secret coves, is one of the region’s true treasures. Whether you’re enjoying an afternoon swim in the crystal-clear waters of Portonovo or watching the sunset over the cliffs of Numana, Le Marche’s beaches provide the perfect mix of relaxation and natural beauty.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Le Marche’s rich heritage is displayed in its art, architecture, and history. Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is a Renaissance marvel with its magnificent Palazzo Ducale and the birthplace of artist Raphael. Step into another world as you wander through the cobblestone streets of this magical city, surrounded by an inspiring atmosphere that hasn’t changed in centuries. Or visit the ancient town of Fermo, where Roman history and medieval beauty collide, offering a chance to trace the region’s past at every corner. These are just glimpses of the treasures you can explore in Le Marche.

Delicious, Local Cuisine

Food is at the heart of Le Marche’s charm and a land of makers from cheeses, meats, pasta and olive oil. It’s a region where flavours sing with authenticity and simplicity. In the coastal towns such as Sirolo or San Benedetto del Tronto, savor the region’s famous brodetto di pesce (a rich fish stew) or experience a hands-on cooking class at Oliveto Estate, where you’ll learn to make 3 types of pasta or vincisgrassi, a traditional lasagna-style dish. Sample the region’s olive ascolane (fried stuffed olives) in the small town of Ascoli Piceno—an indulgence you’ll never forget. The award-winning wines are just as magical, with the Verdicchio wine being a must-try. The region’s cuisine is culianry experience and will leave you wanting more.

Authentic Experiences in a land of makers

Le Marche is a land where craftsmanship still thrives, with centuries-old traditions passed down through generations of skilled artisans. From bespoke shoemakers to local artisans producing intricate ceramics, handwoven textiles, and beautiful paper, Le Marche is a living tribute to the art of making. Forget large tourist crowds; here you’ll have the chance to meet artisans who are keeping ancient traditions alive. Visit a local cheese maker in the hills, explore the infamous hat making here in Le Marche, or try your hand at pottery or even making your own shoes in Italy’s land of leather. The region’s deep-rooted agricultural and artisan traditions offer you the chance to get your hands dirty and your heart full.

Charming Hilltop Villages

Le Marche is dotted with picturesque hilltop villages that feel like something out of a dream. Spend a day wandering the cobblestone streets of Offagna, a fortified medieval town offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the charming town of Corinaldo, known for its well-preserved walls and vibrant local culture. The quiet beauty of these villages allows you to truly experience the slow, relaxed rhythm of Italian life, making you feel like you’ve stepped into another time.

Warm, Welcoming Locals

One of the most charming aspects of Le Marche is its people. The locals are known for their genuine hospitality, often inviting you into their homes to share a meal or a drink. Whether you’re chatting with a vintner in the hills of the Verdicchio wine region or enjoying a homemade pastry with a shopkeeper in the town square, you’ll feel like family. The warmth of Le Marche’s people is what truly makes the region unforgettable.

Perfectly Balanced Pace for restoration and renewal

Le Marche offers a balance of exploration and relaxation that’s hard to find elsewhere. The pace of life is laid-back, allowing you to savor every moment, from a peaceful morning walk through the countryside to a leisurely dinner in a hilltop village. Whether you’re taking a break from hiking in the mountains or sipping wine as you watch the sunset over the Adriatic, Le Marche is the kind of place where time seems to slow down. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking a more relaxed and meaningful way to experience Italy.

Interested in discovering untouched Italy and crafting your own tailormade stay? Feel free to reach out Enquire

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