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Marche to Experience: Discovering Pesaro and Urbino

Step outside the doors of Il Pignocco Country House and discover a world of nature, culture, and timeless charm. From scenic trails that wind along the sea to panoramic viewpoints perfect for sunset lovers, every path leads to something extraordinary.

Travel through ancient fishing villages perched on the coast, romantic castles filled with history, and some of Italy’s most enchanting medieval towns. And at the heart of it all, you’ll find Pesaro and Urbino – two gems waiting to be explored.

Fountain with lions, in Piazza del Popolo, Pesaro.
Fountain with lions in Pesaro, Italy. Piazza del Popolo

Pesaro

Just 2.5 km from Pignocco, Pesaro is a coastal town where the sea meets the hills and tradition blends with modern life. Birthplace of composer Gioachino Rossini, it offers 7 km of golden beaches, a graceful historic center, delicious local cuisine, and a packed cultural calendar.

Wander from the seafront to the city center, visit art-filled museums, sip an aperitivo in the main square, or ride your bike all the way to Fano.

Landmarks like the Palla di Pomodoro sculpture, the Ducal Palace, and lively events throughout the year make Pesaro a destination worth visiting in any season – from sunny summers to quiet winter escapes.

Urbino

Only 35 km from Il Pignocco lies Urbino, a true Renaissance masterpiece. Lose yourself in its cobbled streets, admire elegant palaces and historic churches, and take in sweeping views over rolling hills. It’s a town steeped in art, culture, and timeless beauty – an unforgettable stop on your journey through Marche.

Aerial view of the Renaissance city of Urbino in Marche region, showing ancient rooftops, the cathedral dome, towers, trees, and surrounding mountains.
Urbino, Italy medieval walled city in the Marche region at twilight.
Aerial view of Fiorenzuola di Focara perched on the Adriatic Sea, surrounded by ancient walls and the San Bartolo Natural Park.
An aerial view of the small medieval village of Fiorenzuola di Focara immersed in the San Bartolo park in the province of Pesaro and Urbino
The clock tower and main street of Gradara, featuring souvenir shops in a charming historic setting.
Gradara, Italy: The beautiful architecture of Gradara. Province of Pesaro e Urbino, Marche, central Italy.
An old little house in Montefabbri, a quaint village in the Italian Marche, with flower pots outside and a wooden bench inviting rest and relaxation.
An old little house in Montefabbri, a little village in the Italian Marches

Villages, Parks, and Castles

The Pesaro area is a treasure chest of nature and history.

Start with the San Bartolo Natural Park, where cliffs drop dramatically to the sea and picturesque villages like Fiorenzuola di Focara and Casteldimezzo offer perfect spots for a scenic break.

Head inland to Mombaroccio, where the peaceful Convent of Beato Sante invites reflection, surrounded by forests and ancient legends.

Nearby, the fortified village of Gradara transports you to the Middle Ages. Its impressive castle – one of Italy’s finest – is tied to the tragic love story of Paolo and Francesca, made eternal by Dante in the Divine Comedy.

Don’t miss Montefabbri, one of “Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages.” Tiny and timeless, it’s a cluster of stone houses enclosed by ancient walls, where silence and simplicity tell their own story.

Nature lovers won’t want to miss the Furlo Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved through the Apennines – ideal for hiking, photography, and moments of pure wonder.

And perched on a rocky cliff, San Leo dominates the valley with its imposing fortress, once a prison for the mysterious alchemist Cagliostro. Today, it’s a museum with views you won’t soon forget.

Just 3 km from Il Pignocco, the village of Candelara enchants visitors all year round, but especially in December during the magical Candele a Candelara festival. As the lights go out, thousands of candles illuminate the streets, creating a fairytale atmosphere with wooden stalls, nativity scenes, and festive magic. Even outside the holiday season, Candelara is worth a visit – with its 14th-century castle, the Church of Santo Stefano, and stunning countryside views.