From late January through much of February, Mallorca’s fields are covered by a white and pink blanket as almond trees bloom, attracting both visitors and locals. This natural spectacle, which transforms the rural landscape, has come early this year in areas close to Palma.
Experts from the Institut de Recerca i Formació Agroalimentària i Pesquera de les Illes Balears (IRFAP), part of the Conselleria de Agricultura, explain this advance is due to specific weather conditions. "It seems related to an early accumulation of cold in winter," the institute states. The trees finished the required chilling hours ahead of schedule to break dormancy, and warmer days then prompted earlier flowering.
The widespread introduction of almond trees to Mallorca dates back to the late 19th century when a devastating phylloxera plague forced vintners to uproot vineyards. This agricultural shift led to almond plantations replacing grapevines, benefiting from the Mediterranean climate and soil. Today, Balearic almonds are marketed as "Ametlla de Mallorca," a brand recognised since 2014 with the European Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. This certification ensures the almonds’ origin and distinctive qualities, distinguishing them in both domestic and international markets.
Top spots to enjoy the almond blossom
The island offers numerous locations to observe the almond flowering, with certain areas standing out due to dense cultivation and scenic value. The Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2010, provides unbeatable mountainous backdrops. Villages such as Valldemossa, Soller, and Deya offer splendid opportunities for viewing amid striking mountain environments. The sight of blossoming almonds against the Sierra landscape is a popular subject for photography each year.
In Mallorca’s central-west zone, starting from Palma, almond groves surround the towns of Marratxi, Bunyola, Consell, Santa Maria, Sencelles, Inca, Lloseta, Selva, and Moscari. Visitors are encouraged to explore secondary roads near these municipalities to discover cultivated fields. The area around Llucmajor also hosts numerous almond crops suitable for relaxed driving tours, with chances to stop and take photographs away from crowds. Similarly, the route between Santa Ponsa and Es Capdella features several plantations that can be appreciated from the roadside.
Within Palma itself, several locations allow for convenient almond blossom viewing. In Es Secar de la Real, behind the monastery, there is a large field openly accessible to the public. At Son Espanyol, parking at Parc Bit offers easy access to nearby almond fields without extensive walking. From Son Sardina, strategic vantage points enable sightings of numerous blossoming trees, making it a practical choice for those short on time but wanting to enjoy the spectacle without leaving the urban centre.