Almond Blossom

Each February when the Spring starts raising , the counties across Portugal join efforts once more to celebrate another «Blossoming Douro» or «Blossoming in Algarve» Festivals, in honour of the wonderful sight of the almond blossom that covers the landscape with a white mantle.

The almonds in blossom are Portugal’s announcement of spring, an echo of how China’s plum tree flowers greet the lunar New Year. In fact, the almond tree is closely related to plums, peaches and apricots.
But what about those flowers? This branch, among its many other magical properties, burst into bloom signifying “the exclusive right to the priesthood of the tribe of Levi.”

One of the loveliest times to visit the Algarve region of Portugal is late January when the Almond trees are smothered in blossom and a gentle sun warms the earth.

I think it is one of the most beautiful periods of my country...