The fields are glowing. Suddenly, you get blinded by a strong orange light while driving a narrow provincial road.
These are the type of roads that demand your full attention. They twist and turn through a countryside where time feels different.
The Magic Hour in Motion
At sunset, the Marche sky is never just one color. Copper melts into violet, and shadows stretch across fields and vineyards.
You’ll probably want to stop. If you enjoy photography, the urge to pull over and capture that sunset shot is strong. But these roads are narrow, with almost no shoulder to park safely. Slow down too much, and you might find a Fiat Panda on your bumper ready to overtake.
We Italians are fearless drivers, and our confidence can make a visitor nervous. The trick? Stay calm, keep right when possible, and choose a comfortable spot carefully for your photo stops.
Unexpected Company
Then, there are those moments when the road belongs only to you. No cars for ages. Just silence, and maybe an old dog trotting across the street, wagging its tail like he was waiting for you. He will come close, sniff your hand, and demand a quick scratch on his back before vanishing on some invisible farm path.
The Roads That Play Tricks on You
Don’t be surprised if you get lost. We won’t admit it, but even locals get turned around sometimes when everything fades into shadows. Some roads (like the one going toward Montottone, near Fermo, or the ones that take you to Cingoli) are a maze of bends and blind turns, with junctions that feel like riddles. You follow instinct, a vague memory of a sign, and hope the next curve brings you closer to home instead of another village you’ve never seen before.
What the Road Offers
• Light
• Silence: Or near silence, broken only by the distant bark of a farm dog.
• Surprise: A casale, a roadside fig tree.
Practical Tips
• Best Time: Golden hour in summer is around 7–8 pm; autumn comes earlier.
• Drive Slowly, But Smart: Never brake hard for a photo; plan safe stops.
• Bring Time, Not Plans: Sunset driving is for drifting, not rushing.
Enjoying the ride
These roads are unpredictable routes through valleys and hills. Let the last light shine over the landscape and take in what’s there.