A Five Star Indulgence - NEW
Tavarnelle Val di Pesa, Chianti

About the location:
Escape into the rolling Tuscan hills and the small town of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa to pamper yourself at Castello del Nero, the first-ever luxury retreat in the region. The International Kitchen is delighted to have an exclusive arrangement with this superb property to combine an ultra luxury stay with lessons in classic Tuscan cuisine. The Chianti Classico area may be known for its red wines, which have been cultivated for 700 years among these hills, but like the wine, the Chianti Classico region is also steeped in history. Not only was this region the first to develop Chianti wine, thanks to the perfect weather and soil, but your accommodations for this relaxing getaway — the 5-star Castello del Nero — hails from the 12th century.

Now under the protection of the Italian Fine Arts Commission, Castello del Nero previously belonged to the noble Del Nero family and Mayors to the city of Florence before the castle was acquired by the noble Torrigiani family in 1825. While the Castello del Nero’s atmosphere still offers the charm of centuries past with its frescoes and vaulted ceilings, the renovated castle offers updated, modern facilities. While each of the 50 rooms boast a different style and historical decor, all of them are superior in size and quality to many hotels in the Chianti region. Every room includes LCD televisions, high-speed Internet connection, hair-dryers, mini-bars, and safety-deposit boxes. All rooms also offer breathtaking views of the countryside, cyprus trees, and vineyards.

In addition to five-star amenities, feel free to explore the castle’s stunning frescoed chapel and the beautiful gardens which include a 400-year-old cedar tree and a variety of antique roses. When not visiting the local area — Florence and Siena are accessible via a free hotel shuttle service — relax by the pool or indulge yourself with a holistic treatment or spa experience in Castello del Nero’s ESPA-designed spa.

About the classes:
Experience Tuscany through its food and wine. In your three cooking classes, you will learn from Castello del Nero’s English-speaking sous chef. While using locally grown ingredients and high-quality organic products, you will learn how to create a full traditional Tuscan meal, including pasta and seafood dishes. After your class is complete, the fruit of your efforts can be enjoyed on a terrace overlooking the expansive Chianti Classico countryside or in the hotel’s restaurant.