Following a seasonal closure, COMO Castello Del Nero will reopen on April 1st with new experiences rooted in holistic wellbeing and local culture. From a Qigong and Yoga retreat to invigorating rituals and soul-nourishing cuisine, guests will leave this twelfth-century castle feeling restored, revitalised and rich in cultural knowledge.

Rediscover and Restore

For true escapism, new packages combine stays in one of COMO Castello Del Nero’s elegant suites with a series of wellbeing experiences in the cocooning sanctuary of the new COMO Shambhala Retreat. Rediscover and Restore includes a restful three-night escape and a restorative COMO Shambhala Massage, using COMO’s signature blended oils to melt away the stresses of everyday life. Spa-seekers can embark on Experience COMO Shambhala, a dedicated wellness experience including Yoga and Pilates with world-class experts, signature COMO Shambhala treatments, use of the thermal suites – including ice fountain, sauna, steam, and vitality pool – as well as access to tennis courts and shuttle to nearby cities of Florence or Siena.

Yoga and Qigong with James Rafael

This summer (June 27th – July 2nd, 2022) globally recognised yoga instructor and certified meditation teacher, James Rafael, will host a transformative retreat at Castello Del Nero. With unmatched experience in teaching Qigong (an ancient Chinese exercise and healing technique that involves meditation, controlled breathing, and gentle movement), mindfulness and yoga, James will provide guests with the emotional and physical tools to attract positive energy, reconnect with themselves and harbor real change. With nature-inspired yoga sessions, breathing exercises and tai chi nourish the body, guided meditation and group readings from sacred texts, poetry and philosophy feed the mind, offer reflection, and uplift the spirit.

Revitalising Rituals

Building upon COMO Shambhala’s menu of Asian-inspired treatments, the Retreat will introduce a selection of new Wellness Rituals. Combining insights from world-class experts, relaxing spa treatments, nutritious meals and access to the estate’s exceptional facilities, each Wellness Ritual takes place across a day or half-day in the nurturing surrounds of the new COMO Shambhala Retreat. Be Active combines invigorating exercise with healthy COMO Shambhala Cuisine, access to the thermal suites and a revitalising treatment, while COMO Shambhala Immersed includes a complete 360 experience with a nourishing body treatment, facial, nutritious COMO Shambhala Cuisine, manicure, thermal suites and guided yoga, Pilates, or peaceful walks around the estate.

Soul-Nourishing Cuisine

When they’re not in the COMO Shambhala Retreat or feasting on COMO Shambhala Cuisine – dishes specially curated to boost concentration, balance blood sugar and enhance overall wellbeing – guests can embark on a series of food-based experiences immersed in Tuscan culture. Wine, olive oil and honey tasting – including the estate’s own produce – can be arranged in the private twelfth-century wine cellar in the original part of the Castello. Guests can also take part in private cooking classes with Michelin-starred chef, Giovanni Luca Di Pirro, who will teach the secrets of classic Tuscan dishes, from tiramisu to the perfect pasta.

Art and Architecture Tours

Culturally curious guests will delight in a new series of Art and Architecture tours in local hotspots, from Florence and Pisa to Lucca and San Gimignano. For true immersion in local history, join a seasoned guide and explore the Tuscan capital of Florence on foot, discovering hidden treasures and unexpected corners only known to locals. Your expert guide will tell stories of Florentine life, from the Roman times to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, you’ll marvel at quaint churches, see craftsmen working in narrow streets and visit the main square of Piazza della Siggnoria and Ponte Vecchio, before toasting your experience with an aperitif in Oltrarno.