Imagine waking up to the glorious sounds of nightingales, serins, redstarts and the many other different types of birds to be found in our garden. Breakfast can be a new experience, with buzzards circling the adjacent fields and the occasional appearance of bee-eaters, hoopoes and marsh harriers. Numerous types of butterfly are attracted by the rich variety of flowers found within our tree-lined, secluded garden. At the same time you'll be able to admire the stunning views of the surrounding fields and the Sibillini mountains. Occasionally porcupines, badgers and foxes are seen near the house and, less frequently, a small family of very timid wild boar.

After breakfast you may want to climb to the top of the nearest mountain, Monte San Vicino. This stands at just under 1500m but there is a road that goes to within 250m of the top: a one-hour steep walk. On the way up you may see jays, kestrels, hawks, buzzards and, if you're lucky, eagles, which are resident in certain areas of the national parks. Beautiful mountain flowers can also be seen on the walk up. At the top, the views are breathtaking with snow-capped views (at the right time of year) of the Sibillini mountains and the lakes near Cingoli. On a clear day, the Adriatic Sea is visible.

After the descent, perhaps a picnic next to a small secluded lake at the foot of the mountain. Here the clear water provides a haven for numerous croaking frogs. Woodpeckers, cuckoos and jays are plentiful in the area. To end the day, after a superb meal in one of many reasonably priced local restaurants, you may want to try a glass of the excellent local wine whilst enjoying the sights and sounds at Casa Rustica. In May and June you can observe the incredible sight of a garden full of fireflies. And finally, to end the day, fall asleep to the sound of cicadas, and scops and little owls.

For more information on wildlife and local nature reserves, contact us or see the links from our "things to do" page.