Spring comes to the Canary Islands with the first bloom of almond trees. A burst of these gentle flowers creates an amazing white and rosy landscape over a volcanic backdrop. Flower buds begin to open around Christmas time, and finally at the end of January to the beginning of February almond flowers are in their full glory. The almond bloom creates a spectacle of natural beauty celebrated like a real party in towns and villages. The Almond Festival is held every year in Puntagorda, situated in the north-west of La Palma island.
Gran Canaria transforms into a huge flower garden. These marvellous blossoming trees occupy Tenerife as well. It is a famous highlight to see the countryside surrounded by the delicate rosy almond blossom. The greatest spots to enjoy the blooming trees are the hills and vales around Santiago del Teide. There are even guided trips to the most beautiful places. Another place to go are the slopes around Vilaflor. Here, the almond trees might not be as popular as those in Santiago del Teide, but it doesn’t make them any less gorgeous. You can find more trees in small valleys hidden in the countryside. Almonds are ready for harvest in autumn. They are used in various products—this is the time to enjoy lots of cakes and biscuits made with almonds.
Practical info
When can tourists see the flowering almond trees on the Canary Islands?
The almond trees on the Canary Islands start blooming from late January to early February. After Christmas, the buds begin to open, and within two weeks, the trees are in full bloom. This spectacular sight of almond trees in bloom is highly recommended to tourists, and they can enjoy it until the first week of February. The almond trees grow on a volcanic backdrop, creating an amazing view. Show more
Which regions on Tenerife offer the best view of blooming almond trees?
Santiago del Teide is one of the best regions on Tenerife to witness the blooming almond trees. Many tours are available, taking visitors to the most beautiful spots. The hills and valleys around the region provide a gorgeous view of the stunning almond trees. Vilaflor is another region, and it's an undiscovered area where the almond blooming is equally impressive. Though not as beautiful as Santiago del Teide, Vilaflor's gorgeous backdrop and hidden valleys are worth visiting. Show more
How long is the blooming season of almond trees in the Canary Islands?
The flowering season of the almond trees in the Canary Islands is limited, lasting just a few weeks from late January to early February. The almond trees take about two weeks to bloom fully after they begin to open from the time the buds first appear in December. The blooming period is from late January to early February. The spring and summer see the growth and appearance of almonds on these trees. Show more
What is the objective of the Almond Festival celebrated in Puntagorda, La Palma?
Puntagorda hosts an annual celebration known as the Almond Festival around the first weekend in February on La Palma Island. The celebration commemorates the beautiful almond bloom. There are stalls featuring roasted almonds, almond cakes, crafts, and music and dancing. The festival also includes traditional folk singing and dance performances and rural sports competitions. A visit to the Almond Festival is an excellent way to appreciate the beauty of the almond tree and the culture of the locals. Show more
Do traditional products on the Canary Islands make use of almonds, and in what way?
Almonds are significant to the Canary Islands, especially during the almond harvest season in autumn. Almonds go into making several products such as cakes, biscuits, and honey that are unique to the region. The famous product is Gofio, a dough containing grains, flour, and nut meals considered a staple food in the Canary Islands. Local markets and supermarkets in the region offer visitors a taste of these products. Tourists should not miss out on them. Show more
