Road bike adventures in the Marche region

What makes the Marche region so special is its incredible variety of landscapes. After all, 70% of the region between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennines consists of hills and mountains with picturesque villages and towns perched on their peaks. Nowhere in Italy is the natural scenery more varied, with densely forested nature reserves, endless coastal roads, idyllic river valleys and exhausting mountain roads. A road bike holiday could hardly be more varied. For roadbikers, this means endless possibilities. A relaxed ride along the coast in the morning, a ride through olive groves and vineyards at lunchtime and a tough climb into the hinterland in the afternoon. Hardly any other region in Italy combines so many different terrains in such a small area.

Le Marche is not just an impressive landscape. They are also deeply rooted in cycling. The overall picture of the varying landscapes is also appreciated by the pros - and not just at the Giro d'Italia. One of the most legendary climbs leads up Monte Carpegna, which is inextricably linked with Marco Pantani . With gradients between 10 and 12 percent, the mountain has to be climbed over 10 kilometres. Just under 1,000 metres in altitude later, you reach the "Cippo", a kind of pilgrimage site for cycling fans. Standing up here, you immediately realise why this mountain is more than just a climb. It is a piece of cycling history.

Not overcrowded, but all the more varied: if you spend your road bike holiday in Le Marche, you will discover a region that constantly surprises: with new roads, new views and new stories. A perfect introduction is the "Panoramica" through the Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo. For those who prefer more challenging routes, the route leads into the Monti Sibillini National Park. Here it gets more alpine, wild and much more challenging. Long climbs, little traffic and almost unspoilt nature provide a real sense of adventure. And the tour around the Riverva naturale statale Gola del Furlo not only takes our breath away with the old town of Urbino - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - but also the 141 km long loop with 2,080 metres of elevation gain via Piobbico, Cagli, Pegola and back to Fossombrone in the Metauro Valley.

A road bike holiday in Le Marche is not just about exploring the most beautiful roads, but also the culture, cuisine and architecture of the major cities. After all, the Marche region doesn't just challenge your legs, but also your senses. Between the Mediterranean and the Apennines, the region is home to spectacular natural wonders such as the Frasassi stalactite caves, an extraordinary number of historic theatres and towns worth visiting. The region is also known as Italy's truffle stronghold - so a road bike holiday in the Marche also scores points in culinary terms. A plate of pasta, a glass of regional wine and a view over the endless hilly landscape - this is what a road bike holiday in Italy feels like.

If you are looking for the perfect home base for your road bike adventure in the Marche region between the Adriatic and Apennines, the Natural Village Resort right on the Adriatic coast is the perfect place for you. Between relaxation and water fun at the private beach or pool, roadbikers can look forward to a wide range of all-in-one offers with numerous sports options to balance out the day on the saddle. The resort is surrounded by a varied landscape of hills and mountains. On one side, Monte Conero, the mountain of longing, rises up with its lush nature park, and on the other, dream beaches spread out. The modern and fully equipped chalets at the Natural Village Resort offer impressive views of the nature reserve and the sea. The day's cycling ends here at the Ristorante Seaside right on the beach. Mediterranean specialities and a glass of wine await you before you start dreaming of Marco Pantani's legendary racing bike successes - and your own summit victories in the Marche region.