An exemplar of rural Marche architecture revived with modern touches, this villa is located in a nature-rich area considered the next Tuscany. La Melusina is a folkloric mermaid who represents the power of love, femininity and freedom. Her likeness appears in a 13th-century sculpture carved into the lintel of this 19th-century villa, named in homage.
Composed of traditional stone and brick in the vein of rural Marche architecture, tradition meets modernity in various forms here, like the Panton-style chairs at the rustic dining table that seats up to ten, an industrial-chic kitchen, and refined comfort in the bedrooms.
Outside, take a dip in the swimming pool with solarium and relax afterward in the Jacuzzi. Grill on the BBQ and eat al fresco on the panoramic terrace, your only audience being ancient stones and olive trees. This luxurious rental is perfect for reuniting with loved ones, deepening friendships and entertaining with ease.
Located at the base of the Sibillini mountains in the central Italian Apennines, the area has been referred to as “the next Tuscany,” for its natural beauty but still relatively undiscovered charms. It’s a place to expand your horizons, from searching the local woodlands for truffles, or taking off in a hot air balloon ride, right from the garden of your luxurious villa.
The villa has five bedrooms and four bathrooms, accommodating up to 10 guests. Enter the space on the ground floor and you will be greeted by large windows and a living room with a Smart TV that connects to a dining room. This floor also has one bathroom, a small laundry room, a bedroom and the fully-equipped kitchen. Upstairs, there are three bedrooms, one with private bathroom and a terrace overlooking the Sibillini mountains and countryside. There is also one shared bathroom on this floor.
Amenities include garden and pool maintenance, parking, Wi-Fi, firewood, access to the vegetable garden, and a welcome kit. There is also a washing machine. You may also opt for additional services (fees apply), such as grocery service, wellness offerings such as yoga or a beautician, a nanny, private chef, taxi, horseback riding and wine tours.
AROUND
Bring your walking shoes, because Le Marche is rich in activities, ancient architecture and landscapes that you’re going to want to see up close. With the Adriatic Sea to the east and the central Apennines to the west, you’re near some of Italy’s best beaches and most picturesque mountain villages.
Take a trek on the Sibillini mountain, with a stop at Mount Vettore. Hop in a car to taxi and cruise around Ascoli Piceno with its marvelous Piazza del Popolo, dubbed “the Living Room of Italy”, with an old theatre that used to serve as the center of the area’s entertainment, long before there were TVs and smart phones. Continue your time warp with a visit to Offida, the town of tombolo lace makers, and visit the lace museum to learn about the intricate craft.
Ancona, the regional capital, takes you to the sea, where you can bathe in the Conero Riviera. You can also opt for an excursion to the seaside resorts. And you’d be remiss not to sample all of the regional dishes, especially those that contain white and black truffles, or the fish and lamb dishes accompanied with a bottle of Rosso Piceno Superiore or Verdicchio.
LOCATION
Marche, Italy. Closest airport: Ancona (120km)
BEST TIME TO VISIT: May-September