The Scislowski family still owned an old fisherman’s house right on the beach, so they furnished it enchantingly and opened a little sanctuary you would almost rather keep to yourself. This gem has only three rooms, all of which look like dressing rooms for a Verdi opera. And the showstopper: It sits right on the Adriatic beach in the small town of Porto Recanati, in the province of Macerata, south of Ancona.
I Cucali is no ordinary hotel. It is more of a project, a work of art that honors local traditions and enriches them with contemporary inspirations. Even during the careful renovation, the owner, Chiara, made sure to use environmentally friendly building techniques and green energy.
Above all, the three guest rooms, La Cucalina, La Lancetta and La Marina, are true works of art: the walls, the pictures, the beds, the bath products, the hand-sewn toiletry bags and the embroidered duvets are all individually designed. Even the mattresses are handmade, the pillows are pure cotton and the duvets are cotton and hemp.
La Marina, on the second floor, and La Lancetta, on the third, look straight out to sea.
Breakfast
Breakfast is served on the ground floor at a communal table: a kind of morning banquet of organic regional products, and authentically Italian, of course, with great coffee, homemade croissants and freshly baked cakes.
Food
The Marche region is known for pure flavors and unforgettable recipes. The coast has plenty of good seafood restaurants that are less touristy than you might expect. Be sure to try the legendary brodetto, a delicious soup made with the catch of the day, or vincisgrassi, a traditional baked pasta with ragù. Simply wonderful!
Children
Children 10 and older are welcome, but this is not a typical family hotel.
The Surroundings
Porto Recanati is ideally placed for exploring the region. The Conero nature reserve, just a few miles away, offers unspoiled landscapes and lovely villages with breathtaking views of some of the Adriatic’s most beautiful bays. Inland, the highlight is Macerata, with its Arena Sferisterio and famous opera festival. The hosts are happy to share tips on the best local restaurants and bars, markets and excursions.
Prices
The minimum stay is two nights. Doubles from 120 euros, including breakfast. Guests also get 20 percent off umbrellas and sun loungers at a partner beach club a few steps from the B&B.
Contact
I Cucali
Lungomare Palestro, 39
62017 Porto Recanati MC
Italy
Photos: © Hannes Kläger
