COMO Castello Del Nero, the twelfth-century castello set within 740 acres amidst the rolling hills of the Chianti region, is extending its opening to 1st December, enabling guests to experience Tuscany’s autumnal splendour through a curated collection of new experiences.

As the air turns mild and the leaves begin to scatter, the Italian countryside comes alive in a kaleidoscope of colour. A veritable feast for the palate, this is the season that boasts porcini, chestnut and freshly pressed olive oil, all of which take centre stage on the menus of the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, La Torre. Showcasing the abundant white truffle that graces the region year after year, the Truffle Festival of San Miniato is just a short drive away and takes place on the second, third and fourth weekend of November.

Immersing guests in the autumnal setting and offering hands-on experience with the region’s bountiful produce, COMO Castello Del Nero’s new programmes include a masterclass in Chianti wine-making and an olive oil harvesting experience, plus a Thanksgiving celebration with a cooking class led by Michelin-starred Executive Chef, Giovanni Luca Di Pirro.

Grapes of Chianti

The Chianti region is renowned for its ruby red wine, lovingly produced from the winding vines that straddle the hills surrounding COMO Castello Del Nero. The hotel’s Grapes of Chianti experience offers guests the chance to try their hands – or feet – at winemaking, using the traditional ‘pigéage’ method, following a guided walk around the estate to learn about the harvest process and the creation of Chianti wine. Guests will also enjoy an Italian picnic in the vineyard, accompanied by wine and views of the rolling hills.

Grapes of Chianti costs from 440€ and is available from 5th September to 5th October 2022. Overnight stays are at an extra charge.

Green Gold

Tuscany is one of the most highly regarded oil-producing regions in Italy and COMO Castello Del Nero’s Green Gold experience is designed to take guests through the stages of producing extra virgin olive oil. The day includes an olive oil tasting session to learn about the variation in flavours, a guided walk through the estate to learn about the production process and the chance to try harvesting oil from an olive tree. An Italian picnic in the vineyard is also included, and guests can savour the memories with four bottles of their own oil to take home.

Thanksgiving Break in Tuscany

This year, guests can enjoy a twist on the classic American tradition of Thanksgiving, with a three-night break at COMO Castello Del Nero. Under the watchful eye of the hotel’s Michelin-starred Executive Chef, Giovanni Luca Di Pirro, budding chefs can master the art of Italian cooking during a hands-on class, while a Chianti Classico wine tasting and truffle hunting experience provide further insight into the exceptional produce that defines the region. In addition, Thursday 24 November will see a tremendous Thanksgiving feast served Italian style, of course.

A Thanksgiving Break in Tuscany costs from 3,270€ (two sharing), including three nights’ accommodation and experiences listed.