Marche geography

The Marche (also known as the Marches in English) form the eastern seaboard of central Italy with the regions of Emilia-Romagna to the north and Abruzzo to the south. From the relatively narrow coastal plains the land rises sharply to the peaks of the Appennines which form a natural boundary with Umbria and Tuscany to the west.

Geographically speaking, Le Marche can be divided into three main areas: coastal, inland and mountains.
While the coastal areas are heavily populated the beautiful inland countryside is sparsely inhabited. The total population of the region is around 1.5 million with an average density of less than 150 inhabitants per square kilometre. The region covers just under 10,000 square kilometres.
The coastal area is mild; mid August is the hottest and most humid season, but it lasts no more than 10-15 days.
The inland is the most typical area of Le Marche. There are gently hills, surrounded by walled towns, little rivers flowing parallel to the sea, castles and fortresses.

The inland mountainous area are mostly limestone and are noted for bare peaks, rushing torrents, dramatic gorges and many complexes of caves. The climate is cold, frequently snowed in winter. You can go skiing in the Sibillini area , while in summer, both the Sibillini and the Montefeltro area (in the province of Pesaro) are very good for hiking and backpacking.

posted by Andrea Giordani - Guide Turistiche Marche - Tourist Guide Marche
andrea@guideturistichemarche.it