Almond trees in bloom are one of nature’s most amazing spectacles, inviting you to stop and breathe, and above all, delight in the beauty of their blossoms.
In Ibiza, apart from its cuisine, beaches, amazing sunsets and enormous range of leisure activities, there are some unique spectacles that are particularly worth seeing during the months of January and February.
The island’s mild climate means that these trees, which are members of the rose family, bloom early in the year, creating a stunning visual landscape that tinges the fields with white and pink. The shade depends on the variety of almond tree, creating a rural picturesque image that will endure until the end of February.
There are hundreds of almond trees in Ibiza with innumerable varieties, and so you can enjoy endless vistas of blossom all around you on the island paths and country roads. However, the ideal place for viewing one of nature’s true masterpieces is the valley of Santa Agnes de Corona, which celebrates its local patron saint Saint Agnes with festivities in her honour, including organised walks and excursions through the area. In celebration of almonds, and with a chance to enjoy the stupendous views, Santa Agnès de Corona holds its Festa de s’Ametlla de Corona, on 2 February with a moonlit walk, entitled ‘Anem de lluna i mirem-nos sa flor’ where, on 7 February, you can see almond orchards in bloom beneath the glow of a full moon.
Many dishes of Ibizan cuisine include this ingredient in their recipes. The almond is the star product in January and February, months that are ideal for enjoying the tranquillity, mild temperatures and the amazing Ibizan countryside.
If, in addition to visiting the island at this time, you would like a taste of the fruits of this sensational spectacle, you can find it in dishes such as “borrida de rajada” a dish of skate with potatoes, the ingredients of which include chopped almonds; or the “guisat de peix” cooked with local fish and garnished with a “picada”, a mixture of chopped almonds and “ñora” red peppers, along with Ibizan desserts such as “panellets” and “salsa de Nadal”.