COMO Castello Del Nero

Tuscany

Italy

Wine enthusiasts get to travel. Shouldn’t padel enthusiasts too? You definitely should if you fall into both camps, and that is where COMO Castello Del Nero comes in. With unbelievable views over the Tuscan vineyards and padel courts just down the road, this destination at your peril.

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Review

Wine, Padel and Luxury in the Tuscan Hills

In another life, we at Àguilas quite fancy the idea of becoming wine connoisseurs - certainly a more sedate pace than this thrilling yet relentless padel obsession we’ve got caught up in. Imagine sipping on exquisite wines in beautiful places, with magnificent vineyard views stretching out before you. Touring Europe’s most wondrous wine regions, stopping at a French chateau for a glass of white burgundy complemented with some of the best camembert, perhaps a pit stop at a Spanish medieval castle, or even a Tuscan hilltop—sounds idyllic, doesn’t it. But alas, here we are, chasing yellow balls around a glass-come-mesh-cage-enclosed court with perforated foam rackets in hand. Yet, strangely, we wouldn’t have it any other way. And here’s why. 

Well, thankfully, padel courts are starting to appear in some pretty spectacular places and at Club Águilas, it is our mission to guide you to them. If you indeed count yourself as a bit of a wine enthusiast who’s equally partial to a bit of action on the court, then our latest spot might just be your dream destination. Cake? And eat it? You bet. 

Nestled in the rolling Tuscan hills, on the western edge of the world-famous Chianti wine region, lies the epitome of Italian luxury: COMO Castello del Nero. This modernised twelfth-century castle retreat, with its Renaissance frescoes and stylish interiors, offers the perfect setting for a relaxed rural Italian getaway.

With views over the Tuscan countryside, spectacular local cuisine and a variety of activities both within and outside the resort - including a nearby padel club - this secluded paradise caters to every kind of guest.

  • The hotel has fifty rooms and suites, all designed by the acclaimed Paola Navone, the interior designer based out of Milan and famous for her relaxed and playful style. For those seeking even more privacy, two villas offer a secluded family retreat, while still providing access to the hotel’s exceptional amenities.

    The crown jewel of these amenities is undoubtedly the COMO Shambhala Retreat, an elegant wellness sanctuary overlooking the Tuscan hills. Shambhala, meaning 'peace' in Sanskrit, encapsulates their approach to holistic well-being, blending modern science with ancient practices to balance mind, body, and spirit. Facilities include a 25-meter swimming pool, saunas, a steam room, a Pilates and yoga studio with daily classes, massage rooms, a fitness suite, and a relaxation room. 

    Still with us? Good, because it’s not all about relaxation. The hotel promotes an active lifestyle, offering guided walks and even truffle hunting through the forests, lakes, olive groves and vineyards of the 740-acre estate. And if you, like us Àguilas folk, can’t resist having a racket in hand, then there are two Omni-Surface tennis courts available to be used at all times. 

    While the estate itself offers countless magical experiences, the hotel also excels at facilitating explorations beyond its grounds. Situated between the cultural hubs of the Tuscan capital Florence and its southern neighbour Siena, the hotel provides regular shuttles to both cities. Whether you’re eager to explore the Uffizi Gallery or simply craving a world-famous focaccia sandwich, it’s all within reach. Alternatively, the local area is home to some beautiful local villages and architecture, all of which can be explored in a number of ways. Fancy being mistaken for a local Italian, then you can easily rent one of the hotel’s classic Vespas or Fiat 500’s and wind your way through the hillside towns. Alternatively, you can enjoy a chauffeur-driven ride in a vintage car or limousine. The luxury does not peak there however, because if you are after a higher perspective, then embark on one of their helicopter or hot-air balloon tours and see the famous Tuscan landscape from above.

    The activities don’t stop there. Guests can enjoy numerous cooking experiences, wine and honey tastings and artisanal handcraft workshops, among other experiences. 

    “Where does padel come into it?”, we hear you cry. Well, worry not, we haven’t forgotten our loyalties whilst we’ve been salivating over the salubrious Italian summer life. No, no, no because just a few minutes down the road is the Sambuca Padel Club, where courts can be organised by the hotel for guests to practice their game should they be experiencing padel withdrawal symptoms at any time.

  • 740 acres is enough space to keep an army entertained, and COMO Castello del Nero does just that, and more. The effort this destination places on hosting unique events is unmatched.

    The option of nearby padel makes this destination even more enticing. With the contrasting atmospheres of the ultra-relaxed retreat and the competitive energy of the padel club, you have the perfect setting to indulge both your inner yogi and padel fiend personas.

    So, whether you are wine obsessive, a padelista, or a bit of both, then COMO Castello del Nero Tuscany is for you.

  • Famous for having the world’s best food (France, yes we know you’re a contender), you would hope that a high end hotel in Italy wouldn’t disappoint, and it doesn’t. With two dining locations, the more relaxed “al fresco” pavilion with its Mediterranean cuisine and views over the Tuscan hills and the show-stopping La Torre is headed by Michelin Star Chef, Giovanni Luca Di Pirro. Its addition of Club Águilas approval makes it the world’s first location to have both its “Wings” and a Michelin Star. La Torre includes a creative menu showcasing inventive Italian cuisine at its finest and using the highest quality local ingredients from either local farmers or from the estate’s organic garden. In summer, guests can eat out on the terrace admiring the spectacular sunsets.

    In the beverage department, La Taverna offers a selection of unique cocktails and mocktails as well as all your old favourites. The bar is situated in the original kitchen of the Castle dating back a mere 900 years to the fantastic feast of its previous inhabitants. In the winter months, the large open fireplace gives the space a warm and inviting feel.

  • Florence’s own Negroni (and we do love a Negroni here at Àguilas)

  • If you have ever been to a COMO hotel before, you’ll need no convincing that they operate to the highest standards. And if you haven’t been to a COMO, well, let us convince you. This hotel is no exception to what’s become their trademark norm. The staff are brilliant, giving you the space you need but always seemingly there when the Negroni runs dry or your bread needs a complement of some more olive oil. It is a joy to stay at COMO, and that’s largely down to the team behind it.

  • Two state of the art championship-level courts await guests at the Sambuca Padel Club. They are perfectly designed with professional quality blue surfaces, floodlights and sheltered view areas for interested onlookers. The club is by far the best in the region, and its proximity to COMO Castello del Nero makes it a great option for guests to go and sharpen their skills.

  • The Sambuca Padel Club offers expert coaching from top Italian players who, once you pull yourself away from the seduction of the dulcet Italian tones, will significantly help to raise your game. If you're lucky enough to be there for a long time and manage to get enough coaching in beforehand, then you might also be interested in joining one of the organised tournaments. Be warned however, these aren’t the kind of tournaments where you can meander in and out, or be off your game. No, these are ultra-competitive, players fighting it out, with big-name sponsors and sizeable crowds courtside. We might stick to watching, but we challenge you to at least give it a go because, after all, there’s always the comfort of the retreat to escape to alla fine della giornata (‘at the end of the day’, for those still working on their Italian).

  • Good luck finding any. If you do, give us a call - you know where to find us.