Timeless Splendor: The Enchanting Borghi of Le Marche
Timeless Splendor: The Enchanting Borghi of Le Marche
Where Time Stands Still: The Enchanting Borghi of Le Marche
A journey of discovery through hidden squares, ancient stories and the pure soul of the region
Beyond the rolling hills and silver-gray olive groves that embrace our agriturismo lies a world that seems to defy time. The towns and villages of Le Marche, the beloved borghi, are like stars in a clear sky: each with its own brilliance, its own story and its own ancient soul. Here you wander through mazes of warm brick and gleaming travertine, where the echo of history gently echoes in the narrow alleys and the smell of fresh espresso meets you from open windows. It’s a journey through hidden squares where life happens at a dreamlike pace and where the genuine cordiality of the residents makes you feel instantly at home. Be inspired by the beauty of these nearby gems, where every bend in the road reveals a new secret.
Cossignano, pure Italian charm
This charming village is known as the Ombelico delle Piceno; the navel of the Piceno region . It is right in the middle between the mountains and the sea. It is a place of absolute tranquility, where the old brick walls hold the warmth of the sun and the view over the vineyards is endless.
When you step through the centuries-old gates, you immediately feel the world slowing down. The walls, built of warm, soft red bricks, seem to have held the sun of a thousand summers here. In Cossignano, silence is still audible; it is a place where the wind gently whispers through the narrow alleys and each vista offers a new, living painting of rolling vineyards and silver-gray olive trees.
Offida: Where craft and tradition come together
As soon as you walk into charming Offida, you see what the town is famous for: a bronze statue of three generations of lace makers. It is a wonderful symbol of a craft that is still lovingly passed down from mother to daughter here.
As you wander through the streets, you can sometimes still hear the gentle tapping of the bobbins(il merletto a tombolo). But Offida is also there for the gourmet, enjoy the iconic olive all’ascolana and a glass of ruby Rosso Piceno wine on a terrace.
Our tip for you: Visit the lively weekly market on Thursday mornings, or stop by in early July for the Settimana del Merletto, when the entire town is dedicated to refined lace.
Ascoli Piceno: The elegant living room of the region
When you walk into Ascoli Piceno, you are immediately embraced by the glow of travertine. The city is built almost entirely of this warm natural stone, giving it a unique, golden glow. The centerpiece is Piazza del Popolo, often described as one of Italy’s most beautiful squares, a place that feels like a chic but welcoming living room.
Wander under the stately arches of the galleries and settle on the terrace of the historic Caffè Meletti. Here, like the writers and artists of yesteryear, enjoy the famous Anisetta or a bowl of freshly fried Olive all’Ascolana.
Our tip for you: During your walk, look up as well; Ascoli is called the “City of a Hundred Towers. Although there are fewer left now, everywhere you see the proud skyline of the past reflected in the medieval towers rising above the rooftops.
Grottammare Alta: A balcony over the sea
If you’re looking for romance and a view you won’t soon forget, Grottammare Alta is your place. Perched high above the modern coastline, this medieval village feels like a haven of peace full of flowers and narrow alleyways. As you walk the ancient walls, you can smell the mix of salty sea air and orange blossoms the town is known for.
Settle down on a terrace in the atmospheric square and enjoy the golden glow that falls over the Adriatic coast once the sun begins to set.
Our tip for you: After your visit to the old core, take a stroll down to the promenade below. Here you will find beautiful Art Nouveau villas from the Belle Époque that give the coast an elegant, almost regal look.
San Benedetto del Tronto: The city of palm trees
For a touch of Mediterranean flair, drive to San Benedetto del Tronto. With its mile-long promenade and hundreds of swaying palm trees, you’ll imagine yourself in a tropical paradise here. It is the perfect place for a long beach walk or an afternoon strolling along the coast.
Do not forget to visit the Paese Alto, the old part of the city near the characteristic hexagonal tower. Here you can still taste the authentic atmosphere of fishing and have a wonderful view of the port and the modern pier, decorated with special works of art.
Our tip for you: Rent a bike and ride the bike path along the coast. It is one of the most beautiful routes in Italy, with plenty of cozy bars along the way for a refreshing gelato or an aperitif overlooking the sea.
Fermo: Historical splendor and underground secrets
Fermo is a city that exudes stateliness. From afar, you can see the huge cathedral at the top of the hill rising above everything else. The heart of the city is the impressive Piazza del Popolo, where time seems to have stopped under the elegant arcades.
But Fermo also has a hidden world, under its streets you will find a huge complex of Roman cisterns. A walk through these ancient underground vaults is a magical experience that takes you straight back to the time of the Romans.
Our tip for you: At the end of the day, climb all the way to the park near the Duomo (the cathedral). Here you will be rewarded with 360-degree views that reach from the rugged peaks of the Sibillini Mountains to the magnificent sea.
