A dense network of paths, hills, mountains and natural beauties are just some of the natural elements that mark the Marche region. Perhaps few know that in addition to the sea, the Marches offer a territory to be discovered. About 90.000 hectares of the territory are covered with parks and protected areas, where it is possible to practice hiking, climbing, rafting and kayaking. Immersing yourself in the Marche region also means discovering stories and myths such as the legend of the Sibyl that gave its name to the Grotta della Sibilla or Grotta delle Fate, in the heart of Sibillini Mountains National Park, once known as the realm of demons and necromancers.
Il Sibillini Mountains Park it is characterized by vegetation that tends to change as you move, dense woods and pastures where you can find valuable plants such as martagon lily, Apennine edelweiss and bear grapes. The fauna is also very rich and varied, roe deer, deer, hawks, owls and very often you can spot the finch and the wallcreeper. In addition, the park offers a hiking route of about 120km divided into 9 stages, accessible even to the less experienced or to those who have little time.
Further south is the Gran Sasso and Monti della Larga National Park characterized by sandstone and marl, whose peaks are rounded and the presence of numerous valleys. The fauna and flora are very varied, and chamois has been reintroduced in this area. The last settlements of sixteenth-century stone houses in the numerous hamlets set in the mountains are worth a visit, where it is possible to start excursions among the splendid chestnut woods.
Established in 1996 on Monte San Bartolo Natural Park it extends along the coast between Pesaro and Gabicce. The territory is very particular and has two distinct environments, the internal slope and the sea cliff, where up to the 50s it was also cultivated in unthinkable places. The park in fact constitutes an unusual marine landscape for the coasts of the Marche.
It does not end here, the Marche region is characterized by many other protected areas such as Natural park of Sasso Simone and Simoncello, Monte Conero Park and Gola della Rossa and Frasassi Park considered the green heart of the Marche and the largest protected area in the region.
THEtourist offer of all these areas is well organized, with integrated reception systems aimed at guaranteeing services that allow you to discover the naturalistic and cultural beauties of the area.
The Marche is, in fact, an area suitable for welcoming visitors all year round. THE hiking trails guarantee in spring to be able to discover both the natural environment and the historical-cultural one, taking walks by mountain bike or horseback. While in winter as many of the highest peaks are whitewashed, it represents a new opportunity to move on skis through woods and valleys.
In conclusion, I cannot forget a mention of gastronomy, the pleasure of good food must never be given up even on vacation! The region offers an incredible variety of products, excellent wines and recipes made with genuine ingredients and unique flavors. One way to get to know them is certainly to participate in the festivals and markets throughout the region.
