45°54’53”N, 10°53’3”E Monastero Arx Vivendi, Trentino, Italy

Hidden in the heart of Arco on the shores of Lake Garda lies a walled sanctuary where the whispers of the past meet modern tranquillity, creating a haven of peace beneath the sweeping arches of a former sacred cloister.

Where the sisters of the Monastery Serve di Maria Addolorata once spent their days in contemplation and prayer, a new refuge has been created by noa* architect Francesco Padovan. The Monastero now unites the majesty of vaulted ceilings and expansive corridors with modern design, exalting the Monastero’s rich history within a contemporary wellness space. The result is a property where history and light harmonise, where high stone walls completely enclose the tranquil waters of secret gardens and elegant suites, and historic white loggias and modern glass spa rooms exist in harmony. The spirit of the Monastero has not just been preserved but enhanced.

The calming palette of raincloud grey and dove-white in the 38 new rooms and two suites of the Monastero provide respite and solace to modern travellers. Spread across three floors, each room is marked by individual design elements and king-sized beds. Many rooms also boast freestanding marble baths.

The “Cella” rooms offer soaring 4m high ceilings, while the “Lux” rooms are flooded with light from a 35-metre long architectural skylight. The “Loggia” suite’s transom windows and enclosed balcony offer both relaxation and privacy and a stunning view of the mountains surrounding Arco. On the ground floor, the secret garden and private sauna of the “Hortus” suite are the perfect blend of monastic peace and modern sophistication.

In the cloistered garden, the heated outdoor pool beckons, while the Salus per Aquam.

Spa offers a modern-day cure inspired by the Monastero’s original healing mission. The jewel of the spa is the hammam, where heavenly treatments rejuvenate body and soul.

Monastero Arx Vivendi is an exclusive sanctuary offering glimpses of another time and the perfect combination of simplicity, sophistication, and serenity.

How far to the nearest…

• Resident neighbour 15m
• Lake 4.5km
• Shop 210m
• Café/Restaurant 26m
• Airport 56km (Verona – Valerio Catullo airport); 95.7km to Orio Al Serio International Airport

Altitude 91m.

Location You may be located in the heart of a modern Italian city, but the Monastero’s thick stone walls and cloistered history truly make it a restorative haven. Just beyond its doors are ristorantes, cafes, markets, and shops. Slightly further afield are charming medieval villages, local vineyards, stunning lakes, and soaring mountains. For the adventurous, the region hosts many outdoor pursuits such as rock climbing and mountain biking.

Build The original 17^th century building is constructed of natural local stone and rugged exposed beams, and local ceilings and decorations have been conserved. The new additions emphasize local stone, terrazzo marble flooring, and hand-planed oak. The spa is constructed of seven glass and metal structures, alternating with green courtyards, along a stone spine.

Environment At the northern tip of Lake Garda, the Monastero offers easy access to stunning natural wonders in the Brenta Dolomites. Nearby, explore waterfalls and grottos, and stroll the shore of gorgeous Lake Garda or pristine Lake Tenno.

Digital detox Wifi in all areas.

Creature comforts Free-standing marble bathtubs, private saunas, soaring ceilings. Air-conditioning and heating. Heated outdoor pool. Spa amenities including hammam, bio-sauna, Finnish sauna, and steam rooms. Market-style buffet breakfast. The Monastero Bar offers drinks and finger food daily. Bicycle hire available upon request.

The mild local climate tends towards cool evenings and mornings, but there’s still plenty of sun to soak up in the busier summer. Quieter months stretch through winter, but local ski resorts still attract many visitors.

Engage

Thanks to the pelèr and ora winds that susurrate down from the surrounding mountains, Arco has a delightfully mild climate year-round. This once made it a favourite Nizza del Trentino or “natural clinic” for Habsburg nobility and gave a particularly Austrian architectural flavour to the city. Now, the region’s natural wonders and long season make it a chosen destination for outdoor adventurers. In September, the city hosts free climbing competitions on the surrounding cliffs. More calming excursions abound climb through ancient olive groves to clifftop castle ruins, wander the streets of quaint medieval villages, and sample the delights of local vineyards.

Savour

There is no end of ristorantes and cafes in Arco, and the Trentino region more broadly is known for its northern-inflected cuisine that shares much with Germany and Austria but remains uniquely Italian. Savour local delicacies such as carne salada, a salt-cured beef produced since the 15th century; puzzone do monea, an aged cow’s milk cheese with a tangy bite; or Tyrolean herb-scented schüttelbrot flatbread. Sip the light plummy marzemino, or one of the Trentino region’s unique, well-aged sparkling wines.

Go slow

Forest-bathe in the Arco Arboreto in the crisp winter air. Find sanctuary in the incense-scented air of the many shrines and chapels within the city. Caress the ancient bark of the oldest olive tree in the region. Watch as the sunset paint the ruins of Torre di Arco in vivid pinks and oranges. Or head north for spectacular skiing beneath the craggy faces of the Dolomites.