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In the Tuscan Countryside: COMO Castello del Nero

Hidden among the rolling hills of Chianti, COMO Castello del Nero is an ornate Tuscan resort where hospitality, art and traditions harmoniously unite. The 12th-century castle is layered with original Renaissance frescoes, priceless artifacts and distinct contemporary décor designed by Italian architect and designer Paola Navone. Discover the beautiful COMO Castello del Nero: a place where one can embrace the quintessentially Italian countryside.

Tuscany is an enchanting region of Italy, packed with beautiful scenery, medieval architecture and luscious vineyards. Moving beyond the summer sun, Tuscany in autumn months turns into a natural treasure: rolling hills brighten up with rusty red and yellow landscapes, the scent of olive and grape harvest.

Specifically, the Chianti region of Tuscany is well-known for its wine production and offers an idyllic holiday spot for visitors from across the world. Culture, wine, food, and art take center stage in this region, and vacationers have myriad opportunities to go cycling, horse riding and participate in the grape harvest.

Amongst the rolling hills of Chianti, and the truffle scents in the air harps COMO Castello Del Nero: a union of warm hospitality, culinary traditions, and surrounding nature.

Owned by the COMO group, a leading Singapore-based luxury hotel chain, Castello del Nero combines the group’s vision of contemporary living and holistic wellness into its ornate 740-acre estate. At the heart of this historic estate is a 12th century castle which served as a country residence of the noble Florentine Del Nero family. The Del Nero coat of arms, featuring a rearing greyhound, and an original fresco that has been preserved until today. The estate also houses a chapel, and a clock in the main tower, beautiful garden at the entrance.

Designed by Milanese designer Paola Navone, the suites and rooms at COMO Castello del Nero are absorbed in the quintessentially Tuscan charm. Depending on the room type, each one offers a panoramic view either of the rolling hilltops, garden, or an enormous terrace overlooking the countryside.

Featuring cozy beds draped in Egyptian cotton; cream furnishings paired with original red terracotta floorings; frescoed walls give COMO Castello del Nero’s rooms a soothing ambiance. The soft muted color schemes further enhance the period architecture of the castle, without losing any historic character. The three heritage suites are especially mesmerizing with original 18th-century frescoes lining the walls and vaulted ceilings, and 180° views across the hilltops and lakes.

"I share with Como the idea that luxury today can be an appreciation of simplicity and respect of traditions in a contemporary and unaggressive environment," says Paola Navone. "Here, I mix things that come from different centuries and continents, promoting craftsmanship using everyday things in a non-conventional way and adding a touch of fascination for imperfect shapes."

The spa and culinary offerings at COMO Castello Del Nero have been softly adjusted to create a serene contemporary retreat that makes guests feel at home.

The Michelin-starred La Torre restaurant located in the original stables offers delectable gourmet experience cuisine using the finest Tuscan produce, much from the estate’s kitchen garden.

The property also features two informal restaurants: La Taverna for a traditional Tuscan meal and the Pavilion which offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and COMO signature dishes. The wine cellar’s structure dates to the 12th century, but the hotel’s mixologists are ready to give every drink a modern twist, from Martinis to Prosecco cocktails.

At COMO Castello del Nero guests can experience the Tuscan culture through cooking classes and truffle hunting, wine tastings or simple by taking a walk in the sublime autumn landscapes. In addition to the various experience, the ultimate relaxation can be found at the COMO Shambhala Retreat, offering a selection of therapeutic spa treatments.

Those who want to discover the splendors of the Tuscan countryside, COMO Castello del Nero is a delightful cultural and natural treasures of the area.