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The
Mountains
In
an evocative escalation of emotions the Marche landscape seems to
magically change from a calm beach into a lithe hill to eventually a snowy
peaked mountain.
It
is not a simple case that the Marche territory comprises of two National
Parks (Monti Sibillini and Monti della Laga), four Regional Parks (Conero,
San Bartolo, Gola della Rossa, Montefeltro, Sasso Simone and Simoncello) two
National Reserves (Abbadia di Fiastra and Monte di Torricchio) and numerous
local protected areas, but it is the fact that anywhere you go the panoramas
are extraordinarily beautiful.
To
add to the natural splendor and wonderment of this region are the twin
cliffs of “Sasso Simone” and “Simoncello” that rise bizarrely from
the ground in the heart of Montefeltro and also the wolves and the royal
owlets nearby in the “Alpe della Luna” that hide in the large beech
trees. Close to Urbino the river Candigliano flows, furrowing patiently for
centuries against the solid cliffs of the Furlo creating a deep ravine. Just
as spectacular are the “Monte Catria” and “Nerone” that show off
their natural sculptures, ancient oaks and blooming fields. Whilst
descending to the sea the splendid limestone of “Monte Conero” is
reflected in the still waters spectacularly framed by the thick woods of
several Mediterranean species.
When
entering the heart of the Marche you will be equally amazed by many
fascinating sights including the startling “Gola della Rossa”, and the
splendid “Grotte (coves) di Frasassi”, with their fabulous underground
caves studded with stalactites and crystallised lakes. Not forgetting the
“Monte San Vicino” with its characteristic rounded top that dominates
the surrounding valleys and the beech trees of the “Piano of Canfaito”
and the “Val di Castro”. Further south you can see the beautiful hidden
shady coves in the “Valle dei Grilli” (Valley of the Crickets) and the
ravine of “Sant’Eustachio” but it is the “Monti Sibillini”
mountains that always promise to astonish and charm its visitors, with their
rare and delicate beauties including the extraordinary “Lake of Pilato”
and the wonderful landscapes of the Gola (ravine) dell’ Infernaccio”.
Finally the “Monti della Laga”, picturesquely positioned over the border
of the Marche territory, with its fantastic high peaks covered by ancient
chestnut trees, gothic firs and lively crystalline waterfalls will
definitely invigorate all your senses. One thing is for certain - you will
find it difficult to choose which path to walk, among so many amazing
beauties.
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