Cape of Senses Launches First-Ever Senses Retreat Inspired by ‘Sense Hacking’
Cape of Senses, Lake Garda’s five-star, adults only spa hideaway, announces the launch of its first Senses Retreat, from 6th to 10th November 2024.
The retreat comes at a time when the need for mindfulness and reconnection with nature and ourselves is more vital than ever, as people increasingly seek to escape the pressures of modern life and find balance.
Inspired by “Sense Hacking” from psychologist Charles Spence - defined as the practice of harnessing the power of the senses to lead happier, healthier lives - the retreat will delve into how the senses shape our perception and how they can be ‘hacked’ in order to experience them more mindfully.
The Senses Retreat will be led by experienced counsellor, life coach and retreat host Constanze Spagnolli, who uses scientific methods to support personal and professional development. Constanze will help to challenge and redefine the mental and physical response to sensory information, all in a calming natural environment.
Situated 200 metres above Lake Garda on the east side overlooking the picturesque village of Torri del Benaco, Cape of Senses is seamlessly integrated with the surrounding landscape to offer a peaceful oasis for reconnecting with oneself in nature.
What is Senses Hacking?
Senses Hacking involves manipulating sensory inputs — such as sound, light, or scent—to influence how we perceive and interact with our environment. By carefully adjusting these sensory cues, it's possible to enhance experiences, boost mood and improve mental and physical health. This approach is increasingly used in environments like workplaces, healthcare settings, and homes to support overall wellbeing and create more positive, restorative spaces.
What’s involved in the Senses Retreat?
The retreat combines quiet moments of introspection with dynamic activities that encourage participants to be present and attentive to their surroundings. Underpinned by Senses Hacking principles, guests will learn how to navigate an overstimulated world to reduce stress and enhance overall wellbeing.
Each day will focus on exploring a different sense—sight, sound, scent, taste, and touch—through a blend of self-reflection, cultural experiences, and connective group activities. By following the carefully curated programme, guests will leave the hotel with a new found rejuvenation and tangible techniques to combat stress and enhance wellbeing in everyday life.
Included in the retreat:
Daily Sensory Exploration: Each day focuses on a different sense through coaching sessions, tactile nature walks, and mindfulness practices.
Immersive Experiences: Enjoy wine tasting at a local winery, a sensory excursion to the romantic city of Verona, and a tactile hiking experience around Lake Garda.
Yoga and Meditation: Two all-level yoga sessions and a sound meditation session designed to foster deep relaxation and sensory awareness.
Spa Treatment: Unwind with a relaxing spa treatment which uses natural, sustainably-sourced products.
Mindful Meals: All-inclusive dining featuring local flavours, designed to heighten the sense of taste and nourish the body.
Between sessions, guests are invited to unwind at the outdoor, private heated infinity pool and jacuzzi with full 180-degree views overlooking the lake, or venture inside to the connected indoor pool. While the 2,000sqm Senses Spa offers a holistic spa concept with an extensive range of facilities including pools, a sauna, a fitness area, treatment rooms and relaxation rooms.
There is a choice of two restaurants where guests can experience locally sourced Mediterranean cuisine, as well as a cocktail bar offering a variety of delicious cocktails with direct views of the lake. The first restaurant is the Osteria La Pergola, whilst the second is the lake-view Al Tramonto (translating to ‘at sunset’), named to pay homage to its privileged position on the lake. Cape of Senses was also awarded a Michelin Key in 2024.
Alina Deutsch, General Manager - Cape of Senses, says: “Our vision is to offer a distinctive retreat that allows individuals to deepen their connection with their senses, fostering a long-lasting enhancement of their overall wellbeing. We aim to create an immersive experience that combines mindfulness, cultural exploration, and social interaction, encouraging participants to rediscover the richness of their sensory perceptions and cultivate a more conscious lifestyle. We can’t wait to welcome guests to the retreat together with Constanze Spagnolli, and help them to achieve an improved sense of self, with techniques that will continue to support them during the retreat and beyond”.
The Senses Retreat is priced from €2,790 per person (approx. £2,350) for a five-day, four-night stay in a Junior Suite, with an early bird discount of 10% available from 9th September until 30th September. The retreat includes all meals, five group coaching sessions with Constanze Spagnolli, three distinct sensory experiences, two yoga sessions, and one spa treatment. Sessions will be held in English, and participation is limited to ensure a personalised experience.
