Discover Liguria, Emilia Romagna and Le Marche
Out of Italy’s 20 regions, Le Marche, Emilia Romagna and Liguria remain remarkably under the radar for many international visitors. That is part of the appeal. For the more adventurous, villas that are off the beaten track are exactly what they are looking for. With their unique, unspoiled landscapes, cultural treasures and less crowded beaches, these lesser-known regions are the perfect antidote to a busy life. While more popular parts of Italy draw the spotlight, these areas exude a quieter, more intimate charm, where you can experience Italy’s beauty alongside locals rather than international crowds.
Until recently, good-quality villas in Le Marche, Emilia Romagna and Liguria were rare. As a villa specialist based in Italy, we have been going beyond the obvious hotspots of our country to enrich our growing villa portfolio in line with our guests’ desire for discovery, quality and authenticity. We have been taking our time, picking out the best villas that we know our guests will love. As a result, we now have an immense range of villas spanning lesser-known parts of rural and coastal Italy where other travel companies may not have the time or resources to visit.
In this article, we focus on highlighting our fabulous villas, on or near the sea in Le Marche, Emilia Romagna and Liguria. Staying in these areas helps our guests combine the best of Italy in their own unique way, taking in stunning coastlines, historic and artistic treasures, medieval hill towns and delicious local cuisine.
Lesser-known region: Le Marche. Rolling hills, coastal beauty & historic charm
Green hills give way to sandy beaches along the Adriatic coast, giving you both countryside serenity and seaside relaxation. Picturesque le Marche is dotted with hilltop towns, historic sites and vineyards, making it a destination rich in cultural and natural beauty. As we have discovered, rustic farmhouses are now being lovingly transformed into well-equipped, holiday villas, with many retaining their original charm while offering modern comforts like air conditioning and infinity pools.
Proximity to the coast is one of Le Marche’s greatest draws. The beaches here are long, sandy an shingle, ideal for families and those seeking a tranquil day by the sea. For those eager to explore further, gems like Sirolo await—a charming town nestled against pine forests leading to Spiaggia di San Michele, with its azure waters and stunning white cliffs. Inland, visit the fascinating walled city of Urbino, the birthplace of Renaissance painter Raphael.
Two coastal villas. Where to stay in Le Marche
Casa Angela – This chic villa accommodates up to six guests and is just fifteen minutes drive from the sea. With panoramic views of rolling hills, a decked pool area and a contemporary design, it’s perfect for families or couples seeking a serene retreat. Enjoy outdoor dining on the smooth terrace or relax in the lounge under the shaded portico.
Dimora Montefiore – An impressive, 19th-century villa for up to eleven guests, featuring luxurious touches like a spa, saunas and a designer pool house bar. Located near Cupra Marittima, part of the Riviera delle Palme, from the villa you can easily access award-winning beaches and the charming medieval village of Grottammare Alta.
Lesser-known region: Emilia Romagna. Exceptional cuisine, coast & culture
Emilia Romagna seamlessly blends culinary excellence, historic charm and coastal allure. Bordering Tuscany, Le Marche and Veneto, it is a region of Renaissance cities and picturesque landscapes. Bologna, known as Italy’s gastronomic capital, sits at its heart, offering a gateway to artisan delights such as its famous ‘ragu’ sauce with tortellini pasta. Along the Adriatic coastline, vibrant Rimini is a firm favourite for families and nightlife while Ravenna enchants visitors with its mosaics, churches, palaces and artistic treasures.
Two coastal villas. Where to stay in Emilia Romagna
Portoverde Beach Villa – This standout, waterfront villa for twelve guests offers a rare combination in this area – a private dock, private pool and a rooftop terrace with a hot tub. Distinctive in style and surrounded by a large garden with proximity to attractions like the beach, Aquafan and the Monte San Bartolo National Park, this villa is particularly appealing to families and groups of friends.
Villa Bianca – A striking, white villa for ten, set in lush gardens with a 15-metre pool. Located near Riccione, this villa provides easy access to clean, Blue Flag beaches, scenic hiking trails and colourful towns like Rimini and Misano Adriatico. Sweeping terraces and a jacuzzi deck enhance its allure.
Liguria: Timeless Coastal charm
Liguria’s rugged coastline and pastel-hued villages make it one of Italy’s most picturesque regions. From the renowned Cinque Terre to hidden gems like Cervo, Liguria offers a harmonious blend of seaside beauty, historic hilltop villages and exceptional cuisine. The region’s culinary heritage shines through its fresh seafood and famous pesto alla Genovese. Although the Cinque Terre has been discovered by international visitors and can feel crowded in summer, there are still parts of this coastline that are less known and still retain a more local feel.
Where to stay in Liguria
Villa Ponti – Designed by Gio Ponti, this architectural masterpiece accommodates six guests and overlooks the Ligurian coastline. Its pentagonal swimming pool, lined with majolica tiles, and coastal-inspired interiors make it a serene retreat for art and design enthusiasts.
Villa nel Blu – Perched on a hillside with panoramic sea views and a fabulous infinity pool, this stylish villa for eight combines natural beauty with understated elegance. Set in its own lush terraced garden with inviting terraces for dining, drinks and relaxation, its an exceptional spot for a break with loved ones and a convenient base for exploring this scenic area.
Discover more villas
You have had a taste of our villas in Le Marche, Emilia Romagna and Liguria but there are more available and we are always adding to our portfolio. With Emma Villas, you can find the perfect villa, from coastal retreats with panoramic sea views to homes steeped in local tradition. Please browse our villa collection and contact us to discuss your plans and find a suitable villa for your break in Italy.
Also coming soon, watch this space for our next article featuring more villas in other lesser-known regions of Italy…
