There is a specific moment when the lower Lake Garda region truly comes to life: it is when the medieval walls of the Rocca di Lonato cease to be mere ancient stone and become a living canvas of petals, fragrances and botanical rarities.
If you’re looking for an experience that combines the beauty of nature with the charm of history, make a note of these dates: Friday 10th, Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th April 2026. ‘Fiori nella Rocca’ is back, the exhibition and market that transforms one of Lake Garda’s most spectacular vantage points into an enchanted garden.
A special birthday and botanical treasures
The 2026 edition is unlike any other. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Brescia Garden Club, half a century dedicated to promoting a love of plants. To mark the occasion, the line-up of exhibitors is more carefully curated than ever: from collectors of roses and peonies to masters of aquatic plants, right through to experts in heirloom fruits and citrus.
There are two major highlights this year:
✨ Live Lake Garda: Unique Experiences Handpicked for You
- The Gramaglia Masters: Paolo and Marco Gramaglia will lead an in-depth exploration of medicinal plants. A sensory journey through the ‘semplici’ (the herbs of ancient apothecaries) to rediscover the age-old link between botany and wellbeing.
- The Art of Giusy Ferrari Cielo: the halls of the Rocca will host the incredible paper flower compositions by this world-renowned artist (International Judge at the I.I.D.F.A. in Sanremo and winner of the world title at the World Grand Prix in Toronto – one of the most prestigious floral art competitions globally). Don’t call them replicas: they are true sculptures capable of deceiving the eye and enchanting the heart.
More than just flowers: shopping and lifestyle
As you stroll along the watchtowers and through the gardens of the Ugo Da Como Foundation, you’ll find much more than just plants. It’s the perfect opportunity to revamp your outdoor space with designer garden furniture, handcrafted items, clothing made from natural fibres, decorated straw hats and botanical cosmetics.
Extra tip: Have you gone a bit overboard with your shopping? No problem. The organisers provide a free trolley service to transport your new green treasures straight to the car park.
Event within an event: a dive into history and the Italian Miracle
The admission ticket (just €6) is a real magic key: it allows you not only to enjoy the flower exhibition, but also to explore the entire monumental complex of the Rocca, a national monument since 1912, which also hosts the exhibition “Italia del Miracolo”.
Curated by the Cirulli Foundation, it recounts the Italian economic boom (1948–1968) through design and advertising. For an additional fee, you can also visit the Casa del Podestà, one of Italy’s most fascinating house-museums, with its newly restored polychrome façades.
Useful information for your weekend
- When: 10–12 April 2026, from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm.
- Where: Rocca di Lonato del Garda (BS).
- Price: €6 (free for under-14s). There is an additional charge of €6 for the guided tour of the Casa del Podestà.
- Website: www.fiorinellarocca.it
- How to get there: A4 motorway, Desenzano del Garda exit (just 4 km away). If arriving by train, Lonato station is very close by, or you can opt for Desenzano station and continue by coach.
Forget the usual crowded nurseries: here, spring has the flavour of an adventure from days gone by. Whether you’re looking for the perfect rose or just want to snap the ideal photo, the Rocca di Lonato is the place to be.
Ciao dear Outdoors, see you in the shade of the petals!
Silvia Turazza
