Explore the surroundings of Villa Verdicchio
Villa Verdicchio is located in Cupramontana, in the heart of the Verdicchio wine region and centrally positioned between the Apennines and the Adriatic coast. From our bed & breakfast, you can easily explore interesting wineries, historic towns, and beautiful landscape and beaches.
One day you can taste Verdicchio among the vineyards, the next you can walk around Monte San Vicino or Frasassi, and afterwards enjoy lunch by the sea. The map shows the location of Villa Verdicchio in relation to some of our favourite places. This makes it easy to combine wine, nature, culture and the coast during one stay, without spending hours in the car every day.
What would you like to discover?
Choose what suits your day and jump straight to our tips:
Wine & Gastronomy
Nature and Mountains
Villages & Culture
Sea & Beaches
Discover Cupramontana and the surrounding area
You do not have to travel far to experience authentic Le Marche. Villa Verdicchio is located just outside Cupramontana, a lively wine village with local restaurants, small shops, walking routes and views across the hills of the Verdicchio wine region. Several wineries, historic villages and beautiful natural places are also close by.
Cupramontana, capital of Verdicchio
From Villa Verdicchio: just a few minutes by car · also within walking distance, depending on the route
Cupramontana is regarded as the historic capital of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi. In and around the village you will find several wineries where you can taste local Verdicchio and learn more about the wine traditions of the area.
Stroll through the historic centre, visit the wine label museum or simply enjoy daily village life from a terrace. The surrounding area also offers several walking routes, wineries and restaurants that we are always happy to recommend personally to our guests.
OUR TIP
In the beautifully vaulted cellars of the former Santa Caterina monastery you will find the MIG, the International Wine Label Museum. The museum and enoteca offer an interesting insight into the history and traditions of Verdicchio.
Discover the wine regions of Le Marche
In an area covering roughly one third of Belgium, you will find no fewer than five DOCG wine regions. This makes Le Marche a fascinating destination for wine lovers who want to discover different wine styles without having to travel long distances.
There are dozens of wineries around Villa Verdicchio and more than 700 wineries throughout Le Marche. From Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi and Verdicchio di Matelica to Lacrima di Morro d’Alba, Vernaccia di Serrapetrona and the red wines of Conero, each wine area has its own distinct character.
OUR TIP
Cupramontana is an ideal base for exploring several different wine regions. Discover our wine trip to Le Marche or get inspired by one of our personal wine routes.
Eremo dei Frati Bianchi
From Villa Verdicchio: short drive · suitable for a morning or half-day trip · also accessible on foot, approximately 1.5 hours depending on the walking route
From Villa Verdicchio you can walk straight into the countryside. A beautiful route begins on the edge of Cupramontana at Campo Boario and winds through vineyards and fields.
A lovely place to stop along the way is Eremo dei Frati Bianchi, a former hermitage of the White Friars whose origins date back to the 11th century. Sheltered by the surrounding rocks and woodland, it is a wonderful place to find some shade and cool air.
OUR TIP
Close to the monastery you will find the Sparapani winery, which produces, among others, the Verdicchio Il Priori. You can taste it during a wine tasting at the winery or over lunch at the neighbouring trattoria Da Fiorina. Antonella is well known for her delicious spaghetti alla carbonara. We are happy to help arrange a visit.
Jesi and the Castelli di Jesi
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 20 minutes by car · suitable for half a day or an evening
Jesi lies between Cupramontana and the Adriatic coast and is a lovely destination for a morning, afternoon or evening. Within the old city walls you will find atmospheric squares, historic buildings, shops, restaurants and inviting terraces.
One of its most beautiful cultural attractions is Palazzo Pianetti, famous for its elegant Rococo gallery and art collection. Jesi is also located right in the Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi wine region, making it a wonderful place to combine culture and gastronomy.
OUR TIP
Visit Jesi towards the end of the afternoon, walk through the historic centre and stay for dinner or enjoy an aperitivo on one of the squares.
Wine & gastronomy
In Le Marche, wine and gastronomy are closely connected to the landscape. Around Villa Verdicchio you will find small family-run wineries, historic estates, local trattorias and restaurants that cook with ingredients from the region.
During your stay you can combine a wine tasting with a long lunch, a visit to a local producer or dinner in one of the surrounding villages. From fresh Verdicchio and aromatic Lacrima to olive oil, truffles, cheeses and fresh pasta, every part of the region has its own flavours and traditions.
We are happy to share our favourite addresses and can help arrange wine tastings or restaurant reservations when needed.
Wine tasting in and around Cupramontana
From Villa Verdicchio: several wineries within 5–20 minutes by car · suitable for an afternoon or a full day of wine tasting
In and around Cupramontana you will find many different wineries, from small family businesses to larger producers. During a tasting you can discover different styles of Verdicchio and learn how soil, location and ageing influence the character of the wine.
OUR TIP
We love helping our guests create a personal wine route around Cupramontana. We can also suggest routes in other parts of Le Marche and, if you wish, arrange appointments at the wineries.
Taste the flavours of Le Marche
From Villa Verdicchio: restaurants and producers within 5–45 minutes by car · suitable for lunch or dinner
The cuisine of Le Marche is simple, seasonal and closely connected to the landscape. In the hills around Cupramontana you can enjoy fresh pasta, local cheeses, meat dishes, olive oil and truffles. Along the coast, fish, shellfish and brodetto take centre stage.
Many restaurants work with ingredients from the immediate area and serve regional dishes that pair beautifully with Verdicchio and other wines from Le Marche.
OUR TIP
Do not plan only a wine tasting; make sure you also leave time for a long lunch. We have put 150 of our favourite restaurants and wineries in Le Marche together on one easy-to-use map.
Local products and producers
From Villa Verdicchio: several producers within 10–60 minutes by car · suitable for half a day
Besides wine and gastronomy, Le Marche is also known for local products such as cheese, olive oil and truffles. Around Cupramontana you can visit small-scale producers and discover how these regional products are made.
Taste local cheeses at a small artisan dairy, discover how olive oils made from different olive varieties vary in flavour, or head into the woods and hills of Le Marche with a truffle hunter and his dog in search of truffles.
OUR TIP
Combine a visit to a local producer with lunch or a wine tasting nearby. We are always happy to help our guests arrange visits.
Nature & mountains
From Villa Verdicchio, you can quickly reach the foothills of the Apennines. Here you will find impressive caves, quiet forests, mountain villages and walking routes with sweeping views over the landscape.
From a relaxing walk among centuries-old beech trees to a visit to one of Europe’s largest cave systems, the countryside around Cupramontana offers plenty of possibilities for a morning, half-day or full-day excursion.
Grotte di Frasassi
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 25–30 minutes by car · suitable for half a day
The Grotte di Frasassi are among the most impressive cave systems in Europe. During a guided tour you walk through enormous underground chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years.
The largest chamber, the Abisso Ancona, is a spectacular natural sight due to its enormous dimensions. The temperature inside the caves remains cool throughout the year, making this a particularly pleasant excursion on hot summer days.
OUR TIP
After visiting the caves, continue your day with a wine tasting at Cantina Accadia in Serra San Quirico or lunch at La Scaletta in Genga.
Monte San Vicino, Canfaito and Elcito
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 30–45 minutes by car · suitable for half a day or a full day
Monte San Vicino is one of the most recognisable mountains in the area and offers beautiful views across the hills of Le Marche. Around the mountain you will find walking routes for different levels, from peaceful forest walks to longer hikes towards higher viewpoints.
At the foot of the mountain lies Canfaito, famous for its centuries-old beech forest. It is particularly beautiful for walking in spring and autumn. Nearby is Elcito, a tiny mountain village built high against the rocks and overlooking the surrounding valleys.
OUR TIP
Combine a walk in Canfaito with a visit to Elcito. Bring something to eat and drink or plan lunch in one of the villages at the foot of Monte San Vicino.
Lago di Cingoli
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 15 minutes by car · suitable for half a day or a full day
Lago di Cingoli, also known as Lago di Castreccioni, lies among the green hills west of Cupramontana. The lake is a peaceful place for a relaxing excursion, a walk along the water or a picnic in nature.
During the summer you can swim in several places, hire a canoe or pedal boat and enjoy views across the lake and surrounding hills. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a welcome change from a day filled with wine tastings, villages or cultural sightseeing.
OUR TIP
Combine your visit to the lake with the historic centre of Cingoli, known as the “balcony of Le Marche” because of its sweeping views.
Villages & culture
Le Marche is rich in historic towns, walled villages and smaller places where daily life still moves at a gentle pace. From Villa Verdicchio you can easily reach atmospheric squares, churches, museums and viewpoints, often combined with a good lunch or aperitivo.
From the elegant palaces of Jesi to the pilgrimage town of Loreto and the streets of Corinaldo, each place has its own character. Smaller villages such as Corinaldo, Staffolo and Serra San Quirico are also well worth visiting for a relaxed morning or afternoon.
Several highlights in neighbouring Umbria, including Assisi, Perugia and Gubbio, are also within easy reach for a day trip.
Loreto
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 45–60 minutes by car · suitable for half a day or a full day
Loreto is best known for its imposing basilica and historic square. Inside the basilica is the Santa Casa, the Holy House of Mary, which has made Loreto an important pilgrimage destination for centuries. Walk across the square, visit the basilica and explore the streets of the historic centre. From several places you can also enjoy views across the hills towards the Adriatic coast.
OUR TIP
Visit Loreto in the morning. This allows you to avoid the hottest part of the day and continue afterwards to Portonovo for lunch. Take a look at our restaurant guide for our favourite addresses.
Corinaldo and Senigallia
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 45–55 minutes by car · suitable for a full day
North of Ancona lies Senigallia, a lively seaside town with wide sandy beaches and plenty of beach clubs. Spend some time relaxing on the beach, have lunch overlooking the sea or enjoy a cocktail with your feet in the sand at the end of the day.
Senigallia is also an interesting destination for food lovers. In and around the town you will find many excellent restaurants, including Uliassi and La Madonnina del Pescatore.
A little further inland lies Corinaldo, a romantic walled village whose medieval fortifications are still largely intact. The famous Scalinata del Pozzo della Polenta, with its brick steps and historic well, is one of the village’s most photogenic spots.
We had lunch at restaurant I Tigli, with its atmospheric vaulted dining room and a terrace where the sound of cicadas creates a wonderfully Italian atmosphere.
OUR TIP
Close to Corinaldo lies Cantina Conti di Buscareto. Here you can taste a delicious Lacrima di Morro d’Alba as well as their excellent Verdicchio Amazzaconte.
For lunch, head to Trattoria dal Mago, just a short distance from the winery. This makes it easy to combine a visit to Corinaldo with a wine tasting and a relaxed lunch nearby.
Urbino
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 1 hour 25 minutes by car · suitable for a full day
Urbino is one of Italy’s most beautiful Renaissance cities. Its historic centre sits high on a hill and is made up of narrow streets, elegant squares and impressive palaces. The city is filled with art and history while remaining lively and pleasantly compact.
The highlight is Palazzo Ducale, the former ducal palace that today houses the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche. From several places in the city you can also enjoy wonderful views across the rolling countryside.
OUR TIP
Allow plenty of time for Palazzo Ducale and then wander through the historic centre without a fixed route. Finish your visit with an aperitivo or lunch on one of the squares.
On your way back to Villa Verdicchio you can stop in Acqualagna, one of Italy’s most important truffle towns, or take a small detour through the impressive Gola del Furlo gorge.
Ascoli Piceno
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 1 hour 40 minutes by car · suitable for a full day
As far as we are concerned, Ascoli Piceno is the most beautiful historic city in Le Marche. Much of the centre is built from pale travertine stone, giving its squares and palaces an elegant, almost golden appearance. Its most famous square is Piazza del Popolo, surrounded by historic buildings, cafés and arcades.
Walk through the narrow streets of the historic centre, visit the cathedral and discover the many towers, churches and smaller squares. Ascoli Piceno is also an excellent destination for food lovers.
OUR TIP
Make sure to try the local speciality olive all’ascolana: stuffed and fried olives that originate from Ascoli Piceno. Combine your walk through the city with an aperitivo on Piazza del Popolo or a long lunch in the historic centre.
Assisi
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes by car · suitable for a full day
Assisi lies just across the regional border in Umbria and is one of the best-known historic towns in central Italy. Built against the slopes of Monte Subasio, the town is a beautiful combination of narrow streets, stone houses, squares and churches.
Its most famous monument is the Basilica di San Francesco, with impressive frescoes and views over the Umbrian valley. Assisi is also well worth exploring beyond the basilica: wander through the historic centre, visit peaceful monastery gardens and enjoy the special atmosphere of the town.
OUR TIP
You can combine your visit with a stop in Gubbio or with lunch in one of the villages between Assisi and Villa Verdicchio.
Sea & beaches on the Adriatic coast
From Villa Verdicchio you can reach the Adriatic coast in less than an hour. Here you will find wide sandy beaches, small coves, lively seaside towns and restaurants where fresh fish and local wines take centre stage.
For clear water and a dramatic coastline, head towards Monte Conero. If you prefer an easily accessible sandy beach, a promenade and restaurants by the sea, Senigallia is an excellent choice.
Sirolo and Numana
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 50–55 minutes by car · suitable for half a day or a full day
Sirolo and Numana lie at the foot of Monte Conero and are among the most beautiful coastal towns in Le Marche. Sirolo sits slightly higher on the cliffs and has a charming historic centre with terraces overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Numana lies directly on the coast and offers several beaches, a small harbour and restaurants where you can enjoy lunch overlooking the sea. The beaches around both towns are known for their clear water and green surroundings.
OUR TIP
On the way to Sirolo and Numana you pass Cantine Moroder. The winery produces, among other wines, some excellent Conero DOCG Riservas. Book a tasting or combine your visit with lunch or dinner at one of the winery’s restaurants overlooking the valley.
Portonovo
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 50–55 minutes by car · suitable for half a day or a full day
Portonovo lies in a green bay at the foot of Monte Conero. The combination of clear water, white pebble beaches, woodland and rocky coastline makes it one of the most distinctive places on the Adriatic coast.
Several fish restaurants and beach clubs are located around the bay. Portonovo is particularly suitable if you want to combine the beach and nature with a long lunch.
OUR TIP
Along this beautiful beach you will find several excellent places for fresh fish, including Da Emilia and Il Molo. Make sure to try the moscioli di Portonovo, wild mussels harvested from the rocks around Monte Conero. During the summer, book a table at one of the restaurants by the water well in advance.
Porto Recanati
From Villa Verdicchio: approximately 50–55 minutes by car · suitable for half a day or a full day
Porto Recanati is a lively seaside town with a long promenade, beaches and plenty of restaurants and bars by the sea. The atmosphere is relaxed and accessible, making it a pleasant destination for a beach day or an evening stroll along the coast.
The town is known for fresh fish and brodetto, the traditional fish stew of the Adriatic coast. On clear days you can enjoy beautiful views of Monte Conero from the promenade.
OUR TIP
Visit Porto Recanati towards the end of the afternoon, take a walk along the promenade and finish the day with a fish dinner by the sea.
Make Villa Verdicchio your base in Le Marche
From wine tastings and historic villages to mountain walks and days by the sea, Villa Verdicchio allows you to discover a different side of Le Marche every day.
We are always happy to share our personal tips and help arrange wine tastings, restaurants and special activities in the surrounding area.
