Escape To Cape Of Senses, The Adults-Only Spa Hotel On Lake Garda

The Lowdown

Widely regarded as a destination for the active and adventurous holiday maker, Lake Garda never misses out on a busy summer season. However, one hotel in particular has changed the script of how holiday-makers regard Lake Garda, and that is the 5-star spa retreat, Cape of Senses. Perched on the surrounding hills and camouflaged in the greenery, the glass fronted hotel overlooks the breathtaking lake. Cape of Senses has reinvented what some imagine a Lake Garda holiday to be. Of course, the destination still offers a vast array of outdoor activities, but for those who are looking for somewhere to disconnect and recharge, Cape of Senses offers just that. 

Despite only opening its doors in July 2023, Cape of Senses has been rightfully added to the Small Luxury Hotels list and has already attracted 52 different nationalities. The early success of the hotel isn’t down to its aesthetic social media page or marketing campaigns, but thanks to the unshakeable feeling guests feel as they enter. Minimalist in its design yet maximalist in its attention to detail, this hotel is the epitome of luxury without the gaudy interiors. The skilled architects and designers of the hotel were keen to blur the lines between the exterior and interior, an undisputable decision given the unmatched location. Muted and earthy tones are consistent through the hotel, from its luxurious Italian upholstery to its wooden accents in the bedrooms. Floor to ceiling windows line the lake-facing side of the hotel, allowing Italy’s blue skies to flood the rooms with light and giving guests unobstructed views of the lake. In the hotel’s main restaurant, Restaurant Al Tramonto, tables are positioned against the window for a romantic sunset dinner view and the other restaurant Osteria La Pergola has a focus on al fresco dining. As if a famed painting, hours can be spent taking in this view and this alone is a reason to visit. 

The Spa

Cape of Senses was built with a purpose in mind, to be a breathing space for guests to disconnect from their busy lives at home and reconnect with nature. The adult-only hotel’s dual-level spa encapsulates this purpose well. The large spa and the small hotel capacity gives guests the privacy and space that is desired for an escape like this. Although not necessary due to the impressive spa amenities, Cape of Senses offers an extensive range of treatments, all of which spotlight aromatherapy. Essential oils are handpicked by the therapist based on what the guest feels needs the most attention, such as anxiety or trouble sleeping. Between treatments, guests are free to enjoy the two traditional saunas, steamroom, sensory showers and multiple relaxation rooms which look out onto the view. A highlight of the hotel is the swim-in-swim-out pool starting indoors and stretching outside as an infinity pool, drawing upon the fluidity between nature and luxury that the architects set out to achieve. Guests can enter the heated indoor pool and swim through the double doors towards the infinity wall to enjoy the awe-inspiring vista. For those brave enough, the hotel is fitted with an outdoor unheated pool to invigorate and kickstart the nervous system. This is enjoyed with a smiling member of staff greeting you after your plunge with a delicious hot coffee! 

The Dining

The focus on nature doesn’t stop at the hotel’s interiors, but is demonstrated in the restaurant’s noteworthy food. With the majority of rooms sold on a half-board basis, there is a welcoming buzz in the restaurant each evening as all guests look forward to their next delicious four-course meal. With the wide yet carefully curated menu and daily specials of local and fresh produce, guests can enjoy new dishes each evening. A particular mention must go to the braised veal cheek, a dish that will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come. In line with the rest of the hotel, the restaurant is sleek and minimalist in design yet the detail in each course does not go unnoticed. Where the chefs can, they will use ingredients from as nearby as the hotel’s herb garden. It is clear that this hotel was built to appreciate the staggering Lake Garda and preserve its surroundings. 

The Surroundings

The positioning of Cape of Senses is the perfect balance between seclusion and the opportunity for discovery. The hotel runs shuttles into the quaint and quintessentially Italian village of Torre del Benaco which is home to lakeside bars and cafes, a historical castle and boutique shops. A great afternoon can be spent here, whilst you enjoy an olive oil tasting at Le Prandine or even hire the hotel’s Vespa to explore the area. The onsite concierge team are dedicated to organising itineraries and experiences for their guests, taking pride in their local area. The quaint, Shakespearean city of Verona is also just a 40 minute drive from the hotel and is a great option for guests to stop off at as they fly home. At Cape of Senses, days can be easily spent between the walls of the hotel and spa, and for those who are keen to explore, there is so much to offer. 

Cape of Senses is a refreshing addition to Lake Garda’s tourism, offering a new dimension for visitors. There couldn’t be a more mindful spot for an oasis such as this to lie, with the breathtaking views cascading before each guest and the serenity created within the hotel itself. This hotel may be new to the scene, something that’s clear from the immaculate design, but it is by no means taking time to find its feet. The faultless service, remarkable cuisine and meticulously curated interiors is that of a well practised and long established hotel. We can’t wait to see what Cape of Senses has in store. 

Rooms starting from: £515 (half board) 

CAPE OF SENSES
Località le Sorte
37010 Torri del Benaco (VR)
Lago di Garda – Italy

+39 045 430 1430

info@capeofsenses.com

capeofsenses.com