COMO Castello del Nero

Surrounded by world-famous vineyards and within easy day-trip distance of both Florence and Siena, the Chianti region of Tuscany is hardly suffering from a shortage of worthwhile attractions. But COMO Castello Del Nero takes the concept of stately country retreat a step further than various other villas and resorts in the area, offering a full-service ESPA destination spa designed to help guests unwind after pounding the city pavement on church and art tours — or perhaps to detox after one too many wine tastings.

The castle comes with a prominent history: once the property of the Del Neros of Florence, it’s been owned by the Torrigiani family since 1825. The imposing architecture and grand rooms filled with Renaissance paintings, family crests, and perfectly proper furniture call to mind the historic Italian nobility, and the olive groves covering the sprawling estate grounds set the perfect scene.

The fifty guest rooms and suites are traditionally decorated as well, with wooden beamed ceilings, “terra cotta” floors, dainty loveseats and marble baths with mosaic detail, alongside modern extras like plasma televisions and internet access. Higher-end suites with frescoed walls and fireplaces provide some additional regional charm for art aficionados and guests who don’t mind splurging for a complete Tuscan experience.