Nestled in these slopes is Portonovo, a picturesque bay offering a tranquil, yet entertaining spot for anyone looking to experience all that the Conero Riviera has to offer. In addition to relaxing on Portonovo’s stunning, rocky beaches, there is much to be explored in this coastal hideaway, especially when it comes to the sights.

Nature lovers: rejoice! You’ll be right in the heartland of the Parco Del Conero (Conero National Park) full of stone caves and beautiful, saltwater lakes: Lago Grande and Lago Profondo. You’ll also be able to explore the trails of Anello di Portonovo (the ring of Portonovo), offering unparalleled panoramic views that you won’t soon forget.

Of course, the area is also rich in history and architecture. A local gem is an ancient church, Santa Maria di Portonovo, once the only building in Portonovo bay for nearly 700 years, which dates back to 1034. Another interesting landmark is the Torre Clementina, originally built in 1716 to ward off pirates.

Seafood lovers will be thankful for the many restaurants offering local “moscioli” (wild mussels) that seem to just melt in your mouth. Portonovo is known for this classic dish, as the moscioli are collected from its very bay! While seafood is usually paired with white wine, be sure to try the Rosso Conero at some point during your visit. Consider it the more mature, older sister of the white Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, one of Le Marche’s famous wines.

So there you have it—a beautiful landscape, activities galore, and speciality dishes to top it off. When you’re looking for a break from sightseeing in the city and want to explore one of the more enchanting sides of Le Marche, check out Portonovo. Keep in mind that this charming spot is just a 20-minute drive from Ancona, the region’s capital city, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway.

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