In conversation with Michael Hobbs, co-founder of Appassionata, who reflects on the journey so far
“The last fifteen years have gone by so quickly; it feels like only yesterday we flew to San Francisco for a three-day conference on fractional ownership and everything fell into place for the family lifestyle business we wanted to create in Le Marche,” says Michael Hobbs.
Our first project, Casa Giacomo, was a great learning curve and quite a challenge as we still didn’t really speak Italian and we had no idea where to source things. Most of the time was spent with our heads in a dictionary, driving around in circles trying to find artisans, with no street names and no GPS. It was slightly daunting, but we looked on it as an adventure, we laughed a lot and enjoyed the odd glass of wine too!
As many of our friends were settling into middle age back in England, we yearned for a different sort of existence. The idea of creating beautiful properties for other like-minded people, who wanted a share of what we had discovered in this untouched region of Italy, became our passion. Involving our children as the business developed was a bonus and allowed us to stamp a truly family feel on the enterprise created.
Now, fifteen years later with more than 60 owners and six projects, we really appreciate how lucky we are, doing something we love and meeting so many wonderful people.
Le Marche is a magical holiday destination that captures the essence of authentic Italian life. Rich in culture and history, and with strong family values. The region has so much to offer in terms of activities and excursions and provides year-round entertainment for all. Endless golden beaches, yacht-filled marinas and picture-postcard hilltop villages provide fun in the sun, whilst the majestic Sibillini mountains provide the backdrop for hiking, biking, and climbing and winter sports such as skiing and snow-walking.
Le Marche has certainly held on tight to its innate sense of timelessness and authenticity. Today’s travellers want to experience a real taste of Italy but without compromising on comfort, style and amenities. The growing desire for luxury and bespoke vacation experiences is clear, and discerning travellers increasingly want the very best of both worlds from their chosen destination, in terms of location and facilities.
After fifteen successful years based here in Le Marche, Appassionata believes it has achieved just that.”
“Fractional ownership with Appassionata was a much more pragmatic approach to owning a home in Italy. e properties are meticulously restored, and actional ownership was the solution to all of the expense and hassle of overseas home ownership.” APPASSIONATA OWNERS, PENNSYLVANIA, USA