For a hotel that opened in 2023, Cape of Senses has nestled itself beautifully into the landscape of Lake Garda.
Guests staying in the five-star, adult only hotel’s 55 suites can enjoy feeling grounded by the interior design centred on earthy tones and natural materials. The pool area and grounds — dotted with olive trees that have stood there for many years — are the perfect spot for relaxing, while looking down on the blue waters of the lake glimmering 240 metres below.
Despite being a newcomer, Cape of Senses has been awarded a Michelin key, a guide set up by Michelin in 2024 to recognise special hotels in the way its stars do with restaurants. With its stunning aesthetic in such a memorable location, it’s clear to see why
Cape of Senses really caters for those looking for a restful and restorative Italian break. There’s a heated infinity pool with a sensational view of the grounds and lake, and guests can swim through to an indoor pool and spa area with plush sofas.
For an extra cost guests can choose from a range of treatments using natural, sustainably-sourced products. The relaxing body massage with almond oil is a great all-rounder treatment for those wanting to shake off the stresses of everyday life and get into the Cape of Senses spirit.
With such a beautiful backdrop, you want to spend as much time as possible outside, so the spa garden and yoga platform (where yoga classes are held during good weather) are great additions.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite swimming, doing yoga, or maybe just sunbathing, the hotel has a range of dining options. There are two fine dining restaurants, including Al Tramonto — with a panoramic view of the lake — and the traditional Osteria La Pergola. Guests can tuck into breakfast at the rooftop garden or in their own suites.
Vivid colours and bold flavours are guiding principles for the food served. You can certainly expect some creative and unexpected flavour combinations — think broccoli and Champagne sauce — that add to the feeling of grown up luxury.
The lounge bar and bistro also serve light refreshments, and it’s here you can enjoy drinks with a view. The bar manager lovingly grows his own produce for use in the bar, and gives recommendations on what he can make using his specialities. The cocktails are beautifully garnished and lots of fun – in particular the Spicy Tommy is perfect for a summer evening.
As the hotel’s name suggests, staying here is a sensory experience, and that’s evident in the time spent in the hotel, and in the local surroundings.
The organic citrus skincare in the bathrooms is heavenly and will make it hard to get out of the shower. But once you do, a tour of a nearby olive grove run by Le Prandine is a wholesome excursion.
Just a 20 minute car ride away from Cape of Senses, you can experience a tour of the grove, which is home to 2,500 olive trees plus a range of beautifully scented trees and plants including lemon, bergamot, mint, and lavender. As well as learning about Le Prandine’s production and basking in the sights and smells you can buy products at the nearby gift shop in Torri del Benaco.
Cape of Senses is perfectly situated near to Verona airport, and Peschiera del Garda train station is also nearby. But despite the easy transport links, a break here feels like unplugging from the hustle and bustle of daily life and relaxing in Italian nature at its best.
Rates start from £416 per night for two people, including breakfast
Cape of Senses, Località le Sorte, 37010 Torri del Benaco (VR), Lago di Garda – Italy
