Villa Sofia & Spa

You know what? I wasn’t expecting much when I first pulled up to Villa Sofia & Spa – I mean, it’s tucked away in this tiny hamlet called Lecchi in Chianti that you’d honestly drive right past if you weren’t looking for it. But that’s actually part of the charm. The place sits on Via San Martino, which is basically a winding country road that cuts through some of the most gorgeous vineyard-covered hills I’ve ever seen. When you finally spot the villa, it’s this beautifully restored Tuscan building that looks like it’s been there forever (and probably has).

The whole property feels authentically Italian in a way that’s hard to fake. I loved how they kept the original terracotta floors and exposed beams, but somehow managed to make everything feel modern and comfortable without losing that rustic soul. The spa was honestly a surprise – not huge, but really well done with treatments that use local ingredients. I had a massage with grape seed oil that was… well, let’s just say I booked another one before I left. The rooms vary quite a bit since it’s an old building, so if you’re booking, maybe ask about the specific room you’re getting. Some have these incredible views over the Chianti hills, while others look out onto the courtyard (which is lovely too, just different).

What really sold me on this place was how it sits right in the heart of actual Chianti wine country – not the touristy parts, but where real winemakers actually live and work. You can walk to a couple of small wineries from the hotel, and the staff (who are mostly locals) will point you toward the family-run places that don’t make it into guidebooks. Gaiole in Chianti is about a 10-minute drive for groceries or a proper meal, though honestly, the restaurant at Villa Sofia is solid enough that you don’t need to venture out unless you want to. The breakfast spread is what you’d hope for in Tuscany – fresh pastries, local cheeses, strong coffee, and they make eggs however you want them. Parking is easy (thank god, because those Chianti roads can be… interesting), and the whole vibe is relaxed without being sleepy. I’d say it’s perfect for couples who want to explore wine country but also want a proper base to come back to, complete with a pool that’s actually big enough to swim in and grounds that are genuinely peaceful.