Le Marche, often an afterthought on our travels, is a region we’ve mostly passed through on our way to or from other parts of Italy. But don’t let my casual tone fool you—the couple of places we did stop, Fano and Senigallia, turned out to be delightful surprises.

Fano, with its ancient Roman walls and charming seaside vibe, offered a perfect blend of history and relaxation. Senigallia, known for its velvety sand beaches and vibrant waterfront, was equally captivating—though for us, it was just a quick stop for gelato and a loo break. (Because even road trips need a little indulgence.)

But let’s be honest: the real challenge of traveling through Le Marche wasn’t finding interesting places—it was making sure Gigia had access to dirt to hide her, uh, “discharges.” (Because nothing says “responsible cat parent” like scouting for litter-friendly spots to avoid attracting predators. Who knew road trips could double as survival training?)

Despite the logistical hurdles, Gigia took it all in stride. She explored Fano’s cobblestone streets with the curiosity of a whiskered explorer, sniffing out every nook and cranny like a furry detective on a mission. In Senigallia, she enjoyed her gelato stop with the poise of a feline food critic, though she seemed more interested in the gelato shop’s ambiance than the actual dessert. (Priorities, right?)

Le Marche may not have been our main destination, but its understated charm and unexpected gems made it a memorable part of our journey. And with Gigia leading the way, even the most overlooked regions can feel like an adventure. Who needs a plan when you’ve got a curious cat and a sense of humour?