What’s in a name? If you’re at the Cape of Senses resort in Northern Italy—everything. This 55-room property is nestled high on a hill above on the scenic shores of Lake Garda—with postcard-perfect villages like Sirmione and Limone just a boat ride away. The resort is a feast for the eyes at first, with sweeping views of the lake, overlooking olive groves, and a pair of infinity pools. The fresh mountain air is redolent of the olive trees that dot the property.

This adults-only escape—nearly three hours north of Milan and an hour from Verona—features a flat-roofed, multi-level complex that blends seamlessly with the land. With a wood-clad exterior and a riot of plants flourishing atop the roof, the effect is neutral but luxe. The decor is understated yet elegant, with natural wood accents, clean lines, and plush furnishings that make every room feel both luxurious and grounded. 

The region’s beauty isn’t just a view, but an invitation to adventure. Cape of Senses offers easy access to a range of outdoor experiences, from leisurely hikes through hillside trails to boat excursions on Lake Garda. Feeling adventurous? You can rent on-site e-bikes, Vespas, or even a Fiat 500 and explore the twisty roads around Lake Garda, hopping from village to village or taking a dip in the cool lake. One of my favorite excursions was a day trip to Malcesine, a charming medieval town. I took a cable car ride up to Monte Baldo, where the panoramic views were nothing short of breathtaking. I spent the afternoon exploring the narrow cobblestone streets, enjoying gelato, and soaking in the atmosphere.

The Cape of Senses Spa provids the perfect sanctuary for relaxation. About that spa: the 21,000-foot space is a massive sanctuary that embraces the resort's philosophy of connecting with nature; treatments use local herbs and oils, with a focus on holistic wellness. My favorite feature was the pair of indoor-outdoor infinity pools, where I could float in warm water while gazing at the lake and mountains beyond. This is when I came to truly embrace the Italian philosophy of “dolce far niente”—aka the “sweetness of doing nothing.” The well-stocked tea and snack corner and the lineup of plush, indoor daybeds certainly helped with that endeavor.

Dining at Cape of Senses was a culinary thrill, thanks to Chef Francesco Pavan, whose dedication to showcasing local flavors and ingredients shines in every dish, down to the table olive oil made from trees mere miles away. At Restaurant Al Tramonto (“to the sunset”), which is perched atop the hotel, I saw the sky transform into a vibrant tapestry of pink, orange, and gold, casting a warm glow over the water and surrounding mountains. That unforgettable view of the sunset, paired with perhaps the best tomato and buffalo stracciatella salad—dusted with licorice powder—I’ve ever had was so simple but so incredibly complex at the same time. 

At the more casual Osteria La Pergola, you can sit poolside or upstairs while enjoying simple but exceptional versions of favorites like prosciutto with melon or pasta Amatriciana. Chef Pavan’s innovative approach was evident in every course at both spots; from delicate handmade pasta to grilled, local seafood and seasonal vegetable dishes, his creations are both refined and comforting, offering guests an authentic taste of Italy with a contemporary twist. The food and ambiance at Cape of Senses capture the essence of northern Italy: its simplicity, elegance, and depth. Chef Pavan’s dishes are not just meals; they are experiences that celebrate the land and culture in a way that is both heartfelt and deeply satisfying. Says Pavan: “I find inspiration in my surroundings, in regional products, unique flavors and the beauty of the landscape. The place leads me to the dish.”

Francesco is also passionate about sharing his love of Italian cooking with guests. He regularly hosts cooking workshops, where guests can learn the techniques and traditions that define Italian cuisine—from crafting perfect pasta to balancing flavors in classic sauces. These workshops not only showcase Francesco’s skill but provide guests with a hands-on connection to Italian culinary heritage, making their stay at Cape of Senses truly unforgettable.