Como Castello del Nero

A recent revamp has given this hotel a fresh, modern feel – albeit in the context of a storied, aristocratic 12th-century Tuscan castle.

Terraced gardens – scented with lavender, roses and jasmine – overlook the timeless Tuscan landscape of olive groves, vineyards and tall slim cypress trees.

The fabulous Shambhala Retreat is the main reason why many guests book into (and return to) the castle; it offers Asian-style spa treatments, meditation and yoga classes plus thermal pools, saunas and hammam.

The Michelin-starred La Torre restaurant offers a sophisticated take on local dishes, while La Taverna, housed in the old castle kitchens, serves up vast bistecca alla Fiorentina and the like.

It’s in an ideal location for a Tuscan countryside retreat, but close enough to Tuscany’s top attractions. Downtown Florence is a 30-minute drive; Siena is a little further (a shuttle bus service runs regularly to both). Many Chianti wine estates are nearby offering tours and tastings.