Cape of Senses

With arguably one of the most magnificent infinity views across Lake Garda, the new all-suite luxury hotel and wellness retreat, Cape of Senses is confidently underway, anchored to the sleepy Torri del Benaco hillside. 
The newest Lago di Garda sanctum of modernist calm employs a holistic approach to sustainable architecture and design. The Cape of Senses arches along the terrain; the low-swung building coexists with Lake Garda's topography, created by architects Hugo and Alessia Demetz from Demetz Architects. Intelligent geometric frames carve out each suite allowing for large sliding panels of glass that look out over the lake, with the distant silhouette of the Dolomites demarcating the horizon. 

A sense of space, luxe furnishings and uninterrupted lake views are the characteristics of the suites at Cape of Senses, which come in four different categories. With a minimalist aesthetic, the suites trade on their environment with use of local materials and a natural colour scheme, allowing an easier blend of indoor and outdoor, also facilitated by large terraces and balconies, (and in the Sky Suites a 360-degree view – sleep under the stars anyone?). Layered on top are the trappings of luxe living: free standing bath tubs, coffee machines, a spa bag and welcome treats on arrival to help you settle in.

Set in such tranquil surrounds, it’s no surprise that Cape of Senses have decided to major on wellness. Instead of a sunken subterranean spa, here the architects decided to make the most of the hotel’s setting and view – so all spa areas access the lake, sky and mountain views so you can feel relaxed before your treatment has even started. There’s also an indoor and outdoor pool, fitness and yoga room, a variety of relaxation zones, a Finnish sauna, bio sauna, steam bath and infrared cabin, plus the lovely La Bottega Boutique. Outside a yoga platform, set amid the fragrant garden helps yoga bunnies connect with nature in fresh air; dusk is also the ideal time for a meditation session.

The largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda has drawn visitors since Roman times to enjoy unrivalled views, lakeside living and these days – world-class restaurants, a thriving wine-making industry, olive oil production and of course, beautiful hotels.

Just over 40 kilometres from Verona, Torri del Benaco on the east coast of the lake, is a lovely spot – quieter than the spa towns of Bardolino and Sirmione so it retains a more authentic feel, although the lake and its towns, gardens, restaurants and history are easily explored by boat from its central position. Although if you stay rooted in Torri del Benaco, you’ll get a good feel of what Lake Garda is all about – the town has a pretty harbour and pebbly beaches for sunbathing before swims in the lake, and it has more than its fair share of historical monuments. Wander the town and spy the domineering Scaligero Castle, the Torre dell’Orologio clock tower and 13th century churches among artisan shops, cafes and boutiques.

Like the guests that arrive at Cape of Senses, the Margesin family from Lana in South Tyrol were enchanted with the setting at Torri del Benaco in Lake Garda. As seasoned hoteliers, they knew instantly that the natural charm and unfiltered lake views would be the perfect setting for their fresh concept of wellness hotel.