TUSCANY – Lecchi in Chianti

It is not down in any map; true places never are. -Herman Melville

“Welcome to Italy, home of good food and better wine. Local customs include taking it easy and looking after yourself.” This couldn’t be truer during our time in Tuscany, which was our third stop on our honeymoon. We stayed in the tiny town of Lecchi in Chianti at the Borgolecchi, which holds a very special place in our hearts.

We first discovered this charming town a few years ago from one of my husband’s friends. He introduced us to inGamba – the greatest bike touring company that combines the world’s best cycling with the most delicious local food and wine. Sounds amazing, right?! It is. So wonderfully amazing. It was during our first trip here in 2016 that we met Giorgio and Inga, whom we are very grateful to call friends. Giorgio was our guide both on and off the bike through the beautiful Italian countryside – and by the end of those 3 days, he became my friend. Inga, was the bed & breakfast’s “den mother”. She cooked every meal for us and washed our biking clothes daily – but that is just a tiny portion of who she is. She is the sweetest, kindest soul you will ever meet and I am truly thankful to call her my friend. When people ask me about Tuscany, these two gems are always in my conversations.

It was over a year from our first trip that I met the founder and creator of inGamba – João Corriera. We had been following each other on Instagram and ironically, bought his bike after our first trip (without realizing it) before meeting for coffee. Instant friends. A smart, witty, and funny guy with a heart of gold. João graciously gifted us to come back and stay in this magical place as part of our honeymoon tour. Luckily for us, he was in town the same time we were and rode, ate and of course, drank with us. While in Lecchi we befriended Paolo, who provided us with the best sparkling lemonade and lunch at his cafe after our morning rides. Anything you want, he’s your man.

I highly recommend anyone who loves to bike (any and all levels) to check out inGamba. They really are more than just a touring company. It’s a culture built on common interests which turn into lifelong friendships.

One of my favorite things about this place are the sunrises and views. I am not an earlier riser, but this place I woke up every morning to see the sun rise… and you can see why.

silk pajama set (BHLDN)

The view from our room and balcony

Paul and I bike Napa and Sonoma Valley quite often, but nothing compares to biking through wine country under the Tuscan sun.

First day, getting a quick evening ride in to warm us up for the next few days.

Day 2 riding with João and special guest in training, Mikkel Bjerg.

João was kind enough to drive take us on a little scenic walk and drive us to dinner in his classic Fiat.

jumper (lulus), sunglasses (lespecs)

Day 3 of biking through Italian wine country and villages.

Life is simpler and sweeter in Lecchi, and we wouldn’t want it any other way. Thank you, João for welcoming and including us in this part of your world.