Anyone looking to combine an Italian beach vacation with some hiking and cultural activities should head to the Riviera del Conero, a stretch of coast just south of Ancona in Le Marche, dominated by the 572-meter high Mount Conero. This mountain overlooking the sea is part of the regional park by the same name, Parco del Conero, a 6,000-hectare coastal reserve encompassing part of the territory of Ancona, and the coastal villages of Sirolo, Numana and Camerano.  

Attracted by the opportunity to do some excursions on foot as well as spend some relaxing time on the beach, I recently spent four days in the area. Being so close to the very popular Riviera Romagnola, which tends to become excessively crowded in July and August, I expected to find a packed coast. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised by its quiet undertone; to make things even better, I found the locals to be very friendly and gracious.