The Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria is a route you should not miss if you have the chance to visit the island at the beginning of the year.
Increasingly popular, this ancient Canarian celebration has brought together more than 10,000 visitors in recent years. If you want to be part of the Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria, we bring you all the details about its origin and route.
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The Almond: A Sweet Fruit
Although it is not originally from the island, it has become one of the most important fruits in several Canarian villages such as Tejeda and Valsequillo, with more than 3,000 hectares of almond trees spread across the midlands of Gran Canaria.
Since the Spanish conquest between the 16th and 18th centuries, the almond has gradually become, over the decades, the most representative nut in the gastronomy of Gran Canaria. Traditional sweets such as bienmesabe, caramelised almonds and marzipan are examples of some of the delicious products that locals make with this fruit.
The almond tree blossoms at the end of January and beginning of February, and during this period the Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria is celebrated, bringing together thousands of visitors from all over as part of one of the island’s ancient traditions. During your visit, you will be able to enjoy the visual spectacle that spreads across the summit and midland areas.
Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria
The Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria is not only a route to enjoy during the months of January and February, but also a traditional Canarian festival that represents the most authentic identity of its rural communities. For this reason, both the agricultural and livestock sectors organise multiple activities during these dates.
Several villages in the centre of the island fill with almond trees in full bloom, marking the start of the Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria, together with other activities organised by the different town councils of the municipalities included in this route. So, during your getaway, you will be able to admire and enjoy all the colours brought by the almond blossom, as well as discover several villages on the island.
Discover Valsequillo on the Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria
One of the most famous Almond Blossom Routes in Gran Canaria covers the area between the centre of Valsequillo and the neighbourhood of Las Vegas, also in this municipality. The town of Valsequillo is located in a valley at an approximate altitude of 600 metres above sea level, surrounded by several mountains that reach more than 1,600 metres.
The route between the centre of Valsequillo and Las Vegas is only 1,900 metres long, which can be covered in approximately one hour, depending on your walking pace. Therefore, we recommend wearing comfortable and light clothing so you can walk without any problems.
There is no rush; we recommend enjoying the unique surroundings of the Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria. Thanks to its variety of natural settings, it is a true wonder for anyone who follows the route and enjoys this type of landscape. With this, you will see that the island of Gran Canaria is not only known for its spectacular beaches, but also hides several trails that cross beautiful natural areas.
In Valsequillo, there are 9 different routes for all tastes and difficulty levels. These can be done either with a guide or on your own. If you enjoy this type of outdoor activity, the Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria will not disappoint you, as it hides many magical corners within it.
Archaeological Traces
If you think the Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria is only about observing the beautiful landscapes created by the trees that produce almonds, you are mistaken, because in Valsequillo you can discover more than 20 archaeological settlements that are well worth knowing.
The main archaeological traces are located in the Barranco de San Miguel, where you will find several pre-Hispanic caves. This is highly recommended if you like history and this type of ancient territory, which reveals a small piece of Canarian culture.
Almond Blossom Festival in Gran Canaria
Another town that dresses up for the festival at the end of January and beginning of February is Tejeda, located approximately 10 kilometres from Valsequillo. Here, in addition to following one of the routes of the Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria, you can also enjoy the festivities organised in honour of the blossom.
The Almond Blossom Festival in Gran Canaria takes place in Tejeda, as more than 80% of the fruit is found in this area. During the celebration, locals honour several ancient Canarian traditions, and the festival is included in Spain’s list of Festivals of National Tourist Interest.
The town council of Tejeda organises a full programme of activities to celebrate this festival, which reflects its identity like no other, largely centred around this product. Crafts, dancing, traditional music and typical preparations fill the streets not only of Tejeda, but also of the neighbourhoods of this municipality in Gran Canaria.
The route and festival of the Almond Blossom Route in Gran Canaria show you an important part of the identity and culture of the Canary Islands. The island is rich in traditions and places to visit, such as its paradise beaches, including the extensive Playa del Inglés, and its beautiful ravines for hiking.
This island is an ideal place for more than one getaway during your holidays. That is why, at the Lopesan Group, we offer you the chance to stay in our incredible establishments. Convenience and comfort within your reach in each of our hotels.
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