Ibiza in Bloom

What comes to mind when you think of Ibiza? Beautiful sandy beaches, cocktails by the pool and lots of sunshine?

It is a destination renowned for its parties and one that has been a firm-favourite for summer holidays since the 1970s. But, contrary to what you might think, the most beautiful time of year to visit the White Island is not actually during the summer but instead in the winter months.

During January and February, the hundreds of almond blossom trees that grow all over Ibiza’s landscape erupt into flower and many argue that the Mediterranean bloom rivals that of Japan’s cherry blossoms.

Delicate pink and cream flowers cover the island’s fields, valleys and groves, giving a whole new meaning to the nickname ‘Isla Blanca’ – but lasts only a couple of weeks before the trees shed their petals and bring an end to this stunning natural phenomenon.

George Burdon, Co-founder of luxury villa providers Dynamic Lives, said: “Visiting Ibiza during the first months of the year is a fantastic opportunity to see the colourful displays of the blossom trees and to enjoy a more relaxed pace of the island during one of its quieter seasons.

“You can see the almond trees all around the island, but the best place to admire this natural wonder is in the valley of Santa Inés, which is swathed in the delicate flowers. Make sure you experience them like the locals do, with a walk through the orchards and followed by some tapas and a glass of sangria overlooking the pastel-coloured landscapes”.

The Santa Inés valley, above San Antonio on the northern coast of the island, is one of the best places to appreciate the almond blossom as hundreds of trees surround the picturesque village of Santa Agnès de Corona and cover the hills in white from January through to the beginning of March. Other recommended locations are the Sant Josep region and the villages of Sant Joan and Sant Miquel.

Ibiza has had a history of growing almond trees for over 2000 years as the ingredient’s frequent use in local cuisine has encouraged the dense populations of trees right across the island.

During the peak of the seasons, walks to some of the most beautiful spots are organised for visitors who want to learn more about the stories and traditions associated with the trees, which is one of the best options for guaranteed views of the stunning blossom.

Coming to Ibiza to admire the blossoms? One of the best places to stay is Villa Can Jacq, with its location offering guests the opportunity to look over the pinkish-white blooms of the Sa Caleta and Es Cubells valleys.

Sleeping up to twelve guests, the six-bedroom villa has a beautiful tropical palm tree garden leading down to the infinity pool and surrounding the terrace, allowing guests to continue feeling immersed in flora and fauna after they visit the almond tree groves. Other facilities include an open-plan living and dining area, an outdoor kitchen with BBQ and a cabana bedroom by the pool.