Words by Carla Passino

It is new but looks ancient. To the passing eye, Borgo della Nave, at the edge of the village of Campofilone, in Le Marche, conjures up images of 19th century country life. But the grand Casa Padronale, designed to look like a stately home with its stuccoed façade and ornate cornices, and the rustic Casa Colonica, with its golden red bricks and external staircase, are new builds.

Both are the brainchild of architect Roberto Frolla, who carefully created a small hamlet-like development in Le Marche’s vernacular style using local materials—down to handmade bricks and copper guttering.

To preserve the hamlet-like feel, il Borgo only has thirteen apartments—six duplex and seven single storey ones—of which six are still available for sale. The interiors marry the best of old and new. Think marble floors, open fireplaces and solid wood doors, but also fully fitted kitchen with granite tops, central air conditioning and open plan living. The solid wood windows frame far-reaching views across the countryside, with the Apennines, the Sibillini mountains and the Adriatic sea in the distance, and the apartments also come with gardens or terraces to enjoy the panorama.

But Borgo della Nave’s location between sea and mountains means more than ‘just’ fascinating vistas. Three blue-flag beaches are within fifteen minutes’ drive, and skiing at Sassotetto is about an hour away. Roman and medieval towns, such as Fermo, Ascoli Piceno and Civitanova Alta, dot the countryside north and south of the development. Oh and two of Italy’s best restaurants—Moreno Cedroni’s La Madonnina del Pescatore and the seasonal Clandestino Susci Bar—are both within one hour and fifteen minutes’ drive.

Nearby Campofilone also offers plenty to do. Sheltered behind crenellated walls, this pretty medieval village has several atmospheric churches and a forbidding tower. But its greatest claim to fame is the maccheroncini, a tiny, fine egg pasta that has been popular in the area since at least the 15th century. Every August, a sagra—festival—celebrates the local pasta-making tradition with yummy tastings, providing the perfect opportunity to mingle, meet local people and take part in the village’s social life.

Properties at Borgo della Nave range from €295,000 to €345,000. For more information, contact developers Ultissimo on 020 3178 4975, or visit www.ultissimo.com.