Mention Lake Como to most travelers, and images of breathtaking scenery, glamorous villas, and charming towns likely come to mind. But what if I told you there’s another stunning lake just a few hours away, offering the same beauty with fewer tourists and a more relaxed vibe? That’s Lake Garda, Como’s less flashy sister, quietly evolving into a destination for discerning travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience.
Enter Cape of Senses, a spectacular year-round spa hideaway that debuted last summer. Nestled among the rolling hills above the picturesque town of Torri del Benaco, this resort is all about the views. On a bright spring morning, the jagged mountains across the lake stretch as far as the eye can see, with wispy clouds dancing above and the glittering waters below. As night falls, the lights on the opposite shore twinkle gently, while the resort’s gardens are bathed in soft lighting. The entire experience is framed by the hotel itself, a sleek architectural marvel designed by Hugo and Alessia Demetz of DemetzArch, seamlessly blending with the surrounding landscape.
The family behind Cape of Senses – brothers Christian and Johannes Margesin and their father Johann – have been running the wellness-focused resort Alpiana in South Tyrol for decades. Their dream of opening a property on the lakes finally came true when they discovered this neglected olive grove in 2018. They spent five years meticulously transforming it into the tranquil oasis it is today.
The resort exudes an air of elegant simplicity. Each of the 55 guestrooms is a suite, designed with a minimalist aesthetic, featuring plush taupe sofas, crisp white linens, and pops of color in the form of dusty orange cushions, towering plants, or contemporary art accents. While the suites are incredibly comfortable, the resort is carefully designed to draw you back to the great outdoors. Activities abound, from tours of local oil mills and wineries to leisurely bike rides through the picturesque countryside.
The culinary experience at Cape of Senses is equally impressive. Under the direction of executive chef Francesco Pavan, two restaurants offer a delightful journey through Italian flavors. The poolside Osteria La Pergola serves light, classic Italian dishes, perfect for a relaxing lunch break. Restaurant Al Tramonto, perched on the top floor, offers innovative Mediterranean cuisine showcasing the freshest local, seasonal ingredients. From decadent poached eggs with cheese sauce and truffle to light and refreshing endive salads, each dish is a culinary masterpiece.
But the true highlight of Cape of Senses is the 21,000-square-foot Senses Spa. This haven of tranquility boasts all the classic spa facilities, including three saunas and steam rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness center, three pools, and a jacuzzi. However, what sets the Senses Spa apart is its focus on bringing the outside in. From the moment you step inside and breathe in the lavender and thyme-infused air, a sense of calm washes over you. Gone are the elaborate bells and whistles of many modern spas; here, simplicity reigns supreme.
Relax in cozy corners of the various relaxation areas, curl up with a good book in the spa library, or enjoy fresh herbal teas and healthy snacks, all while surrounded by breathtaking views through floor-to-ceiling windows. The spa’s signature treatment, the Senses Pinda, is a two-hour full-body experience that includes a hot pads and wild herb ritual, followed by a massage using citrus, rosemary, and basil essential oils and a nourishing facial using flower extracts and Macadamia oil. Every treatment, from East to West, is executed to the highest degree using herb-infused products by MEI, which stands for “migliori erbe Italiani,” or “best Italian herbs.”
After indulging in the spa’s offerings, take a leisurely stroll through the olive groves, unwind on one of the cabana-like outdoor lounge areas, or participate in the daily lineup of free wellness activities, including fitness classes, guided meditations, and breathwork sessions. Don’t miss the yoga classes, held in the morning or at nightfall on the hotel’s outdoor spa platform, surrounded by fragrant olive and lemon trees and offering unparalleled views over the lake.
Cape of Senses, just 40 minutes from Verona, is a blissful, bucolic paradise that feels like a world away. Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Lake Garda at this extraordinary resort.
