When December arrives, there is a moment—often around mid-afternoon—when the day seems to suddenly fade away.

The light slowly fades, the sky darkens, and suddenly the little lights decorating the streets begin to shine brighter, as if wanting to retain the magic of the day a little longer.
It's that suspended moment that makes Bellaria Igea Marina a small, luminous embrace, where everything slows down and the heart breathes more gently.

And it is precisely in this atmosphere that, from December 6th to January 6th , the beach in front of Piazza Alda Merini hosts its wonderful Sand Nativity Scene : a Bethlehem sculpted a few steps from the sea, with life-size figures modelled by international artists using only sand, water and patient hands .

Strolling among these sculptures, illuminated by the warm light of Christmas and accompanied by the gentle sound of winter waves, is an experience that enchants children and deeply touches adults.
Every detail tells a story, every figure seems to breathe, and for a few minutes you truly find yourself inside the Nativity—with the sea as a backdrop.

Bellaria Igea Marina in winter: a surprising charm

During this time, the town lights up with decorations and tiny lights, the scent of the holidays wafts from afar, and the quiet beach becomes the perfect place for those who want to stroll slowly, hand in hand, breathing in a different, cleaner, lighter air.

Sometimes, even a dusting of snow peeks out onto the sand, creating a sight that fills the eyes of children... and adults alike.
 

🏨 Hotel Marcus awaits you… in summer

Even though we're closed in winter, we wanted to tell you about this event because we love Bellaria Igea Marina in all its seasons, and the Sand Nativity Scene is one of the most evocative moments of the year.

When you return in the summer, you'll find our usual welcome: the kind that makes you feel at home from the first smile.

In the meantime, if you happen to be passing through Bellaria Igea Marina during the holidays, enjoy the magic of the lights and the unique charm of the Nativity scene sculpted in the sand.

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🏨 Why choose Hotel Marcus to experience this magic… when you return in the summer?

If you're looking for a hotel near the beach in Bellaria Igea Marina where you'll feel welcomed like family, the Marcus is the place to be.

There are no formalities here.
We call you by name, we smile at you with our hearts, we welcome you with the same naturalness with which we would open the door to a friend.

Our strengths:

• a few steps from the beach

• close to the illuminated center and the decorated streets (full of life, scents and music in summer)

• rooms with balconies overlooking the sea

• traditional Romagna cuisine prepared just like our family

• covered parking

• many services for children

• large garden to play and relax

• All-inclusive packages for those who just want to think about enjoying their holiday

• completely family-run

And above all, our most important promise:
When you need us, we're here. Always.

For advice, help, a chat, or even just to make a child smile with an improvised game.

Because you are not a guest here:
you become part of our family.