The coastline of Le Marche is one of the most striking and varied of the Adriatic, and for scenery and ambience there is something to satisfy every kind of traveller. From San Benedetto del Tronto to Pesaro the coast stretches 180 km, and the towns tucked in between the cliffs and behind the rolling hills beckon with the promise of the ultimate Mediterranean experience.

If it is a bustling town with a busy nightlife and plenty of shopping you are looking for, then try Pesaro, the birthplace of Gioacchino Rossini - a city of elegant streets, renaissance architecture and atmospheric bars and restaurants. Or Senigallia, site of the famous Velvet Beach, which has a wonderful old centre - an ideal place to try traditional Marche delicacies like fish stew.

Alternatively, there are many quiet towns and villages hidden along the coastline, which from mid-July until the end of August are home to holidaying locals. For a glimpse of how the people of Le Marche spend their leisure time, head to Cupra Marittima, with its old-fashioned feel, or Portonovo, in the Monte Conero National Park.

The Conero Peninsula offers some of the most stunning scenery of the whole Adriatic coast. Around Portonovo, Numana and Sirolo, the landscape is shaped by the limestone cliffs, creating sheltered beaches - some accessible only by boat. As well as some of the best beaches in Le Marche, it also offers a variety of activities. Take a walk along the cliff tops – as you look out across the Adriatic, you feel as if you are on the edge of the world. The area is also easily explored on horseback or by mountain bike. Because of its unusual microclimate, the area is home to many rare plants and wildlife.

A beach holiday in Le Marche will offer different tempting choices every day, but whatever you do, the friendly relaxed atmosphere will stay with you even when you have returned home.