Le Marche pronounced 'Lay Markay' is situated in the centre of Italy on the Adriatic coast. From its narrow plain the land rises as you travel inland, first into gentle rolling hills and then more dramatically as you reach the Apennine mountain range that forms the backbone of Italy and separates Le Marche from its westerly neighbour Umbria. Most visitors head for the coastal plain where there are many long sandy beaches and a diversity of resorts, from the lively Gabbice Mare to the elegance of Pesaro with its old town and Rennaissance architecture. Traveling inland, you will first come to small towns and villages on top of gently rolling hills laced with olive groves and vineyards. This less travelled region gives you an authentic taste of Italy where time slows and you can enjoy the local dishes of rabbit and game, wild mushrooms and truffles. Further inland the land rises as you approach the Appennines and the scenery becomes more dramatic where caves and gorges have been carved into the limestone peaks from which water gushes.

Le Marche accommodation offers a variety of direct rentals. Le Marche has a long coast so you can expect to find apartments and villas with pools here. However, it is the rural nature of the region which means that you can find something unusual and different for your holiday. The Italian agriturismo (a little like a French gite complex, generally located around a farm house) is a great place to stay for a relaxing getaway in the countryside. There are also some grand country houses here and cottages to hire with fabulous views.