In the Canary Islands, the almond trees are once again in full bloom between late January and March. Walkers know and love this sight: every year, the trees, adorned in pale pink, herald the end of winter in the Canary Islands.
Almond Blossom Walks on Tenerife
In Santiago del Teide on Tenerife, guided walks through the almond blossom are organised – as they are every year. There, in the north-west of Tenerife, the almond blossom is considered particularly beautiful. There are many almond trees and a wonderful landscape. In spring, special almond blossom walks are organised here as part of the „Fiesta del Almendro en Flor“.
The local council is organising guided tours through the spring splendour and is even awarding prizes for the best photos of almond blossoms taken along the ‚Route of the Blossoming Almond Trees‘. Photos can be submitted via the council’s official website (link below) between 1 February and 4 March. The winners will be drawn once the campaign has ended.
Canary Islands almond trees in full bloom
Depending on the length and severity of the winter, the almond blossoms can be seen between January and March. They are considered the first in Europe to bloom, thanks to the Canary Islands‘ geographical location, and are most abundant – though not exclusively – in the north and west of Tenerife.
The almond trees were brought to Tenerife from Central Asia. There, they find ideal conditions and have continued to develop over the centuries. From Tenerife, they were taken to other islands.
Almond Blossom on Gran Canaria
And so it’s not just in Tenerife that a hike during the almond blossom season is well worth it. In Gran Canaria, too, the blossom season is a special natural spectacle. Particularly around Tejeda and Valsequillo, the mountain slopes are transformed into a sea of white and pink blossoms.
Almond blossom on La Palma
On La Palma, it is mainly the higher-altitude regions where the almond trees blossom. There, the blossoms usually appear a little later than on Tenerife or Gran Canaria. However, they last a little longer. This creates striking contrasts, particularly against the backdrop of the green volcanic landscape.
Hikes to see the almond blossoms in the Canary Islands
Many almond blossom walks follow easily accessible paths and are also suitable for less experienced walkers. Nevertheless, you should be aware of changing weather conditions, as the flowering season falls in winter.
Sturdy shoes, sun cream and plenty of water are essential. Hikes in the morning are particularly lovely, when the light brings out the beauty of the blossoms and the temperatures are still pleasantly cool.
Almonds in Canary Island cuisine
As is usual with fruit trees, the fruits of the almond tree begin to ripen after flowering. The almond harvest usually takes place in July and August.
Harvested almonds have a long tradition in Tenerife. They are used in numerous recipes in Canarian cuisine. You can find lots of delicious Canarian recipes here in our recipe section.
All the information on almond blossom in the Canary Islands
The dates for the almond blossom season vary from year to year. Information and booking details for guided tours are available from the tourist information offices in the respective regions.
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