Mulino Tomassoni

Grab a cardigan when you pay a visit to the Grotte di Frasassi (25 minutes’ drive): it gets pretty fresh (about 14°C) in this vast complex of underground caverns lined with spectacular rock and crystal formations. A short drive away is the Tempio del Valadier, a small 19th-century shrine built within a rocky cave. You’re in a renowned wine-making area here, with hectares of vineyards growing grapes for white Verdicchio and red Lacrima wines. Within a half-hour drive, there are several wineries that arrange tastings and cellar visits. When you fancy a day at the seaside, head to Senigallia (40 minutes) whose beach is known as the ‘velvet beach’ on account of its fine golden sand. Stroll along the seafront and the working harbour, or head into the town centre to visit the Rocca Roveresca fortress – and to see and be seen along the pedestrianised Corso II Giugno, lined with elegant shops.