COMO Castello del Nero – Tuscany, Italy
Atop a hill, commanding 360 degree views of rolling countryside in the midst of Chianti, COMO Castello del Nero combines the very best of the entire region. Once a 12th century castle, sitting in terraced gardens and a 740 acre estate, it has been transformed into a sleek and exclusive boutique retreat. Renaissance frescos are joined by 21st century luxuries, including a Michelin starred restaurant and a COMO signature Spa.
Within easy reach of the famous hilltop fortress villages of Tuscany and some of Europe’s most spectacular cultural destinations, it’s a place to soak up and enjoy Tuscan life and all its pleasures.
At A Glance
Luxury Hotel
Why We Love It:
For its achingly cool design, charming staff and simply stunning views.Style:
Historic Tuscan meets contemporary luxe.Location:
In the heart of Tuscany, between Florence and Siena, close to the village of Tavernelle de Pesa.Rooms:
Elegant and sophisticated rooms, suites and villas with endless views of rolling hills and cypress trees.Swimming:
A heated garden pool and COMO signature Spa.Children:
Families are given a very warm Italian welcome.Accessibility:
Some of the rooms are adapted for guests with mobility issues, but some of the terrain is unsuitable.rooms
Spread throughout the castle itself, and amongst the converted outbuildings and courtyards, no two room or suite is the same. The original features of terracotta floors, thick beams and frescoes are offset by cool eau de nil and grey, creating elegant and airy spaces, furnished in a mix of antique and contemporary furniture. Estate Rooms feature a double or twin beds, and look out over the gardens or courtyard. The larger Tavarnelle Rooms have high ceilings and can accommodate an extra bed for a child.
The spacious Loft Suites are on two levels – the living area on one floor, and the bedroom above – with gorgeous Tuscan views. In the main castle itself, the Heritage Suites have many of the original features – fireplaces, frescoed walls and ceilings – and feel like apartments. The Como Suite is ideal for families, with two bedrooms and bathrooms, and ample living space. We love the Como Terrace Suite for its private roof terrace – the views from up here are sublime. Just a short drive away, is the private Villa San Luigi, with five bedrooms, large gardens and an infinity pool. Also within the estate, set in a converted farmhouse, are a selection of beautiful one to three bedroom apartments, ideal for independent travelers. Each comes with a fully equipped kitchen and terraces, and guests have use of all the hotel facilities too.
food
Eating in Italy is most certainly one of life’s pleasures, and here at COMO Castello del Nero, you’ll not only feast on flavoursome regional dishes, with ingredients sourced just a stone’s throw away and the estate’s own organic garden, but also be treated to Michelin starred food. The vaulted ceilinged La Torre, with its one star, inventively showcases regional and Italian dishes, and dinner here is a must.
For more informal dining, La Pavilion’s al fresco terrace setting has views of rolling countryside and a fresh, Mediterranean menu. And of course, being in Chianti, expect an excellent wine list – especially wine from the estate. For lunch, take a picnic and relax in the grounds, or enjoy a private dinner in the gardens.
activities
Whether you want to browse the galleries and heritage of Florence and Siena; enjoy the fruits of the Chianti vineyards, hike through Tuscan villages and hills, you’re very well placed to do it all here. Learn the secrets of Italian cooking and make pasta from scratch with the executive chef, or discover how to make the perfect pizza. If you’re a wine lover, there’s the chance to join the sommelier on a tasting session in the cellar.
Gourmets might want to try the olive oil tasting – Tuscany is one of the best oil producing regions in Europe – or go truffle hunting with dogs on the estate. If you visit in early July, then a trip to witness the Palio in Siena is a spectacle that you won’t forget. This horse race is one of Italy’s most famous events. Being part of the luxury COMO brand, you can be sure that the Spa is a true sanctuary. Wellness classes run alongside thoroughly indulgent treatments, and a relaxing session in the hydrotherapy pool or aromatic steam room is guaranteed to restore your batteries.
family
COMO Castello del Nero has a distinct grown up nature and feel, however, families are absolutely welcome. There are no specific facilities for younger guests, but rooms can accommodate extra beds or a cot.
sustainability
The COMO Group sees itself as a custodian of the environment in which its hotels are located, and as a result, are dedicated to preserving local culture, supporting the domestic economy and minimising its impact on the surroundings. Ingredients are sourced locally, internship programmes are run for school leavers looking to work in the hospitality industry and energy and water management is a key feature.
Location
Tuscany, Italy
In the heart of Tuscany, between Florence and Siena, close to the village of Tavernelle de Pesa. It’s just over 30 minutes from Florence airport, and 75 minutes from Pisa. There’s a helipad nearby too, and transfers can easily be arranged.
