Blue Mountains and Green Valleys in Le Marche
8 days, Self-Guided for 2 people or more, Seasonal Daily Departures, Centre-based, Self-drive
If you want the beauty of hilltop villages without the tourists of Tuscany, a visit to the stunning Le Marche region in central Italy is essential. Sibillini National Park has reputedly the most beautiful range of mountains in the Apennines, full of ancient legends and marked forest trails.Montemonaco, a walled, mediaeval village of cobbled streets and yellow stone houses, is close to some of the National Park's most legendary sights: The Gorge of Hell, the Devil's Peak, the Lake of Pontius Pilate and a cave reputed to have been the home of an enchantress - all these are within walking distance of your hotel. If delicious food and drink and the freedom to choose what you do each day appeals, then this is the trip for you! The flower-filled meadows, unique birdlife, tranquillity and spectacular mountain scenery will make you wonder why there are comparatively few visitors. Shhh! Le Marche is only just starting to promote itself so go soon before everyone else does!
- Day 1. Outbound
- Fly to Ancona-Falconara or Pescara (served by budget airlines) and drive to the mediaeval town of Montemonaco, two hours away. At the foot of the Sibillini Mountains, this area is ideally located for walking in the hills and valleys, visiting the cultural treasures of the nearby towns and enjoying the lake's fishing, kayaking and canoeing. Your accommodation is in a beautifully restored 'Agrituristico', with a swimming pool, panoramic views and a large garden. There are also alternative rustic hotels in the area, all offering spectacular views and excellent food (but not the pool!). Dinner is included each evening, with the emphasis on hearty, regional dishes.
- Days 2 to 7. The Sibillini National Park
- Maps and route descriptions will be supplied to you at the hotel, to enable you to plan your day's walking and sightseeing. Suggested routes include the River Ambro valley, the summit of Monte Sibilla (2173 metres), the lakes at Accumoli, Monte Vettore and the 'Red Lake' of Pontius Pilate, the Gorge of Hell and the many marked routes suitable for all abilities, which are a feature of the National Park. If you wish to walk around the local towns, the 'Town of the 100 Towers', Ascoli Piceno, is considered the jewel in Le Marche's crown, with its Roman and mediaeval buildings and the Piazza del Popolo, supposedly one of the most beautiful squares in Italy!
- Day 8. Homeward
- Return to Ancona and your homeward flight. Alternatively, if you would like a second week in Italy enjoying one of our other walks, or extend your stay in Le Marche, we would be delighted to prepare a tailor-made quotation for you.
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- Tour grade: A-C (walk dependent).
- Cost per person: £745 land only.
- Single supplement: £110.
- What is included: Half board accommodation, car hire, route notes and maps.
- Accommodation: Agrituristico or rustic 2* hotel with private facilities.
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Departure dates:
Daily, May to October (except Sundays).