The vibrant blooms of the almond trees in Santiago del Teide have returned. The local council has coordinated various activities, attracting both locals and tourists eager to partake in this scenic experience. This Saturday, under clear skies, it seemed as though all paths led there. Visitors, residents from other areas of Tenerife seeking a unique day, tour guides, and numerous young people in their best outfits were on a quest for the perfect Instagram backdrop featuring the almond blossoms.
Finding the blooming almond trees required little effort; a simple stroll down the central La Placeta street sufficed.
The Santiago del Teide City Council is heavily invested in promoting this natural spectacle. The programme spans from late January through March, aligning with the blossoming season of the almond trees. There are several trails available, each varying in difficulty. Additionally, options exist for walking and returning to the starting point, as demonstrated by Manuel Alejandro and Ángeles, a couple in their middle years who intended to trek for about thirty minutes before heading back to their vehicle. “We are from La Orotava and decided to come because I saw it on Facebook,” she shared regarding their visit.
Tom and his family, who are English, also made their way to Santiago del Teide after learning about this opportunity from their hotel in Puerto de La Cruz. By 11:00, they were finalising their preparations in the boot of their rental car, loading backpacks, hiking poles, and setting off!
Cochinilla and Blossoms
At the trail’s outset, an impressive sight greeted newcomers. The first almond trees were in bloom alongside some prickly pear cacti afflicted by cochinilla, a pest that has been affecting this species on the island. It’s noteworthy that the introduction of almond trees to these volcanic locales at the base of Teide National Park occurred in the mid-19th century when landowners sought alternative crops following the decline of the once-thriving economy surrounding cochinilla, which was used for dyeing textiles.
“Are you really going to tackle the path dressed like that?” A woman in her fifties expressed her surprise at a young woman clad in plain clothing, sporting unmarked jeans and trainers, who was about to embark on her first steps along the route. “Yes,” was the somewhat bashful response. “One should come prepared; I wouldn’t say you need boots and all, but it’s advisable to have proper footwear. It doesn’t seem like an overly strenuous or perilous path, but inadequate gear might lead to twisted ankles or injuries,” commented another bystander.
The remarkable influx of visitors enlivened the area but also led to congestion on the roads and challenges in finding parking, sparking contemplation among locals. “I believe the positives outweigh the negatives, but it’s true that it disrupts the serenity for local residents,” reflected one neighbour. In the background, music and a market thrived in the square.
This year’s Almond Blossom Campaign was inaugurated on January 21 and runs from February 1 to March 4. For this Sunday, the schedule includes “guided services along the path with spontaneous interpretations,” an agro-artisanal market in Plaza de Santiago del Teide (operating from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm), and a musical performance by the Paraíso group (scheduled for 4:00 pm, also in the square).
Additional events revolve around watercolours, photography, gastronomy, and even children’s activities. On February 1, a beginner’s watercolour workshop focusing on the almond blossom is planned, while from March 3 to March 10, submissions for the XXVIII Almond Photography Contest will be accepted, inviting participants aged 18 and above from any nationality and residence.
Gastro Route
The Santiago del Teide City Council has also arranged the Gastro Route, which will take place from February 1 to March 4. Fourteen establishments in the town centre, Arguayo, and Retamar will serve tapas, menus, and breakfast to visitors and hikers exploring the trails. Furthermore, a dozen additional shops in these locations will provide customers with “a diverse range of almond-related products.”
The participating dining venues include Bar Restaurant El Patio, Bar Parada, Cafetería Bar Soto, Los Hermanos Cafeteria, Bar El only Aguayo, Burguer El Retamar Cafetería Bar, Bar Cafetería Bar Tropic II, Tropic Arguay, La Casona del Patio Restaurant, Santiago del Teide Restaurant, Bar Arera Km 101, and Bar Cafetería Plaza.
Regarding commercial offerings, this year’s participants include El Valle Supermarket, El Valle Florist, Chapa and Painting Workshop Luis, Mini Market Santiago del Teide, Mirely Store, Ferretería Daluis, Lavaria de Canarias, Casa Aloe Vera and Crafts, Supermarket La Venta, El Retamar, Gloko, and Gasolinera Services Station The Lord of the Valley.
