Go above and beyond

While summer in Tuscany is splendid, autumn is when this Italian region really blooms. Quintessential Tuscan flavours are in their prime and an atmospheric mist rolls across the hilly, evergreen landscape. At COMO Castello Del Nero, a converted 12th-century castle, La Torre boasts a Michelin star; you can accompany a truffle hunter and, crucially, a truffle hunter dog in their search to unearth the rich and precious fungus before gorging on dishes abundant with some of the freshest ingredients you’re likely to ever taste.

One of the most serene aquatic activities, paddle boarding, is hardly a new phenomenon, however the topography of COMO’s private island resort in the Turks and Caicos, COMO Parrot Cay, means that guests can marvel at some wondrous wildlife. Embark on a private two-hour tour to catch a glimpse of turtles, rays, herons and pelicans, while navigating between leafy mangroves.

Indonesia, and Bali in particular, is in prime position to receive waves that roll in from storms deep in the Indian Ocean, making it a fantastic (and warm) surfing spot all year round. COMO Uma Canggu is perched on the southern shore and the area’s chilled out beach vibe can be felt throughout the hotel – think fresh, grilled seafood and tangy fruit cocktails. A ‘Surf and Stay’ experience here includes daily surf lessons and group activities such as yoga or pilates, plus one deep tissue massage per stay. This is one of the best ways – and locations – for surfing beginners, too.

At COMO Uma Ubud, a halcyon resort settled amongst lush paddy fields, a visit to a 1,000-year-old temple is made even more spiritual with the addition of a traditional water purification ceremony. Take four hours out of your day to submerge your body in the local healing waters. Water purification (locally known as “Melukat”), is a ritual process that uses holy water to achieve self-purification and the cleansing of both the body and the soul. This includes purifying the aura and karma from past lives, aligning and clearing the chakras, and removing disease.

COMO Maalifushi is an idyllic private Maldivian island that is surrounded by the bubblegum blue waters and china white sands synonymous with this part of the world. While close to paradise, the area’s native whale sharks are now endangered. In light of this, COMO Maalifushi has teamed up with ECOCEAN: a not-for-profit research organisation that aims to conserve the whale shark population. You can choose to watch from a boat as these gentle giants feed, or jump in and snorkel in between them.