A paradise for plant lovers awaits you in Gardone Riviera: the André Heller Botanical Garden.
Here, exotic plants, fascinating works of art, and quiet water features come together to create a unique ensemble.
This garden is an unmissable stop on Lake Garda.
Plant varieties and themed areas
A walk through the Heller Garden is like a short trip around the world, without needing a suitcase.
Plants from almost every climate on the planet grow within these few hectares.
Every corner surprises you with new colors, shapes, and scents.
The over 3,000 species are not simply planted next to each other, but distributed in themed areas curated with great attention.
Each zone has its own character and tells a different story: of alpine peaks, tropical jungles, or the sun-drenched slopes of Garda.
Alpinum
The Alpinum is a tribute to the Dolomites and other alpine regions.
Hardy plants that have adapted to a harsh climate grow among rocks and stony paths: gentians, edelweiss, and sempervivum.
The atmosphere is fresh and clear, just like during a mountain hike, but without the climb.
Tropics
As soon as you leave the Alpinum, everything changes.
Suddenly, the environment becomes green, dense, and humid.
Large-leaved palms, tall bamboo, and ferns grow here, while colorful tropical orchids stand out among them.
Thanks to the mild climate of Gardone Riviera, species that you usually only find in Asia, South America, or Africa thrive here.
Aquatic plants and ponds
Water plays a fundamental role in the Heller Garden.
It flows, reflects, and creates life.
Water lilies and lotus flowers open up on the surface, while reeds, grasses, and delicate flowers grow along the banks.
Small bridges cross the ponds, where fish swim slowly.
A perfect place to stop and observe.
Mediterranean zone
This part of the garden immediately evokes Lake Garda.
Lemon trees heavy with fruit, fragrant lavender, olive trees, and rosemary characterize the landscape.
In spring and summer, this area is particularly lively, full of Mediterranean colors and scents.
The history of the botanical garden
The Heller garden has a long and fascinating history.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Austrian physician and naturalist Arthur Hruska fell in love with Gardone Riviera thanks to its microclimate.
Between 1910 and 1971, he created a private garden here with plants from all over the world, artificial rocks, and small streams.
After his death, the area remained unused until 1988, when the Austrian artist André Heller took care of it.
Heller brought new life to the garden, combining nature, art, and poetry.
Today, the park also hosts works by famous artists such as Keith Haring and Roy Lichtenstein.
Art in the garden: sculptures and installations
In the Heller Garden, you don’t just encounter plants; you also experience a unique dialogue between nature and modern art.
The sculptures are not mere decorations, but an integral part of the garden.
They appear among the trees, reflect in the water, or surprise you in hidden corners.
André Heller has included works by internationally renowned artists, including:
-
Keith Haring, with his playful and dynamic forms
-
Roy Lichtenstein, with pop colors that contrast with the natural environment
-
Rudolf Hirt, Susanne Schmögner, and Erwin Novak, with poetic installations
Other works come from Asia and Africa, enriching the garden with cultural and spiritual meanings.
Landscape architecture and water elements
The Heller Garden is much more than a botanical garden: it is a landscape experience created with art.
You move through a labyrinth of paths, small bridges, ponds, waterfalls, and artificial rocks that recall the Dolomites.
Water flows everywhere, creating evocative sounds and reflections.
The garden is arranged on terraces, always offering new perspectives on plants, sculptures, and glimpses of Lake Garda.
Location and how to get to Gardone Riviera
The botanical garden is located in the heart of Gardone Riviera, on the western shore of Lake Garda.
The location is ideal: sunny, quiet, and with a pleasant microclimate all year round.
-
By car: A4 motorway (exit Desenzano), then SS45bis to Gardone. Parking available near the center.
-
By bus: connections with Salò, Toscolano Maderno, and Desenzano.
-
By boat: in season, regular departures from various locations on the lake.
Sail over, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information for visitors
Opening hours
-
From March 1st to October 31st, every day from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
-
Closed in winter
Tickets
-
Adults: €12
-
Groups (from 15 people): €11
-
Children 6–11 years: €5
-
Children under 6: free
More information on tickets and bookings here
Accessibility
The garden is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs: the paths are steep and have stairs.
Pets
Dogs are allowed only on a leash.
Parking
Near the entrance, there is a public parking lot with a charging station for electric cars (fee required).
Other botanical gardens on Lake Garda
Ghirardi Botanical Garden – Toscolano Maderno
Located a few kilometers north of Gardone, it belongs to the University of Milan.
Here you will discover primarily local plants, medicinal herbs, and protected species.
A quiet place, ideal for an educational walk away from mass tourism.
Isola del Garda
The largest island on the lake hosts a splendid Neo-Gothic-Venetian style villa surrounded by a park tended with palms, cypresses, and fragrant flowers.
Visit only with guided tours, the island also offers spectacular views of the lake.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions
What plants grow in the Heller Garden?
Over 3,000 species from all over the world: alpine herbs, tropical palms, bamboo, water lilies, lavender, lemons, and olive trees.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but always on a leash. In summer, there are also water bowls.
What is the best time to visit?
Between April and June, when the flowers are in full bloom. It also offers evocative atmospheres in autumn.
How much time is needed for the visit?
At least 1.5–2 hours. If you love photography or art, even more.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, but the paths are steep: it is better to go without strollers and keep a close eye on small children.
