A very special delight in Malaga is the almond blossom in February. While the rest of Europe and most of the peninsula are still experiencing typical winter temperatures, in the province of Malaga with its mild Mediterranean climate, you can already enjoy the first signs of spring.
When you arrive by plane, you can already see from above the green fields stretching along the coast. And a little further inland, Almond trees are the first trees to bloom between January and February.
Without a single leaf yet on the tree, the almost ethereal, white and pink flowers begin to appear first, depending on the variety, which colour entire fields and are beautiful to see.
A beautiful spectacle of nature that you shouldn’t miss if you’re in Malaga at this time of year. We’ll show you some routes through the most beautiful areas in our province.
Where to see almond blossom in Malaga
The large natural areas in Malaga where you can see hundreds of almond trees bloom are the Guadalhorce Valley, Sierra de las Nieves, the Axarquía and the Malaga mountains.
Guadalhorce Valley

The Guadalhorce Valley, also known as the orchard of Malaga, is the most pleasant route for travellers who prefer not to drive along mountain roads. Just a few kilometres from the coast, here you can see much more than almond trees in bloom.
The countryside is covered in fresh green grass and thousands of tiny yellow flowers, with thousands upon thousands of lemon and orange trees laden with fruit. Perhaps this scene is the closest thing to an Eden on earth.
Along this route are the towns of Pizarra and Álora. Both towns are also notable for their scenic views over the valley and the surrounding mountains.
Pizarra
In Pizarra, we recommend a beautiful and relatively easy route to “El Santo” which passes by a natural spring, a spectacular rock formation, and wooded areas. The route starts from the town itself, at the Raja Ancha Recreation Area.
Álora
Álora is noteworthy for its old arab fortress perched on the mountain at the top of the village. The views from there are simply breathtakingly beautiful.

You can get there by car, but we don’t recommend it, as you have to drive through very narrow village alleyways, many of them one-way and very steep.
You can park in this public parking and explore the village on foot.
Sierra de las Nieves
The Sierra de las Nieves is a magnificent natural environment and there are many good reasons to visit it throughout the year.
The Sierra de las Nieves (“Snow Mountains”) is a mountain range with one of the highest peaks (Torrecilla, 1919 metres above sea level) and one of the most important in the province of Málaga. As its name in Spanish indicates, it usually snows there in winter.

Much of this area is protected, partly as a Biosphere Reserve and partly as a National Park, the first in the province of Malaga.
There you’ll find magnificent fir forests, some of the most impressive caves in Andalusia, and beautiful white villages of Moorish origin.
Guaro

In Guaro, the almond blossom is traditionally celebrated with a festival called Almond Tree Day. Depending on the flowering period, which can vary each year, the festival is held in late January or early February.

Part of the event includes guided walks through the almond groves surrounding the village. Each year there are two routes. A shorter, easier one for families and those less physically fit. And a longer, more challenging one of about 10 km. We did the second one, and you really need to be in good shape! The reward awaits you back in the village. There you can enjoy special dishes prepared for the occasion in the bars and restaurants.
There is also usually a market in the central square selling products from the Sierra de las Nieves region, as well as informative displays about almond cultivation.
- This year, Almond Tree Day in Guaro will be celebrated on Sunday, February 1st.
- The tours are free, but you have to register in advance at this link.
Axarquía
The Axarquía region is the highest mountain range in Malaga, with La Maroma being its highest peak at over 2,000 metres. This rugged and wild terrain has been home for centuries to white villages of Arab origin, surrounded by fields and orchards.
Arenas and Totalán are two of the most outstanding villages for enjoying this natural spectacle. From here, hiking trails allow you to explore the mountains and valleys covered with almond trees.
Arenas

Arenas is part of the Mudéjar Route of the Axarquía region. It is surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, situated next to a hill upon which one of the most important Muslim fortresses in the area was built.
From the village, there are routes that climb towards the Arab fortress, offering views of almond groves in a historic setting.
- Arenas – Daimalos Route: A highly recommended circular route offering panoramic views of almond blossoms, passing through the town and its hamlet, Daimalos. You can find all the information about this route at this Wikiloc link.
Montes de Málaga

The Montes de Málaga region stars right after leaving Malaga in heading north. It is a low mountainous area (about 600 meters above sea level) with Mediterranean forest.
Almogía
Almogía is one of the municipalities with the most almond trees in the province. Although it’s a short distance from the city, much of the journey there takes you along secondary roads.

And, very importantly! The Malaga mountains are an insider tip for delicious local cuisine at good prices. In the area, there are several inns or roadside taverns where you can eat fabulously in a rustic setting, mingling with the locals.
Our tips
The Torre de la Vela is a defensive structure located at the highest point of Almogía, forming part of the town’s medieval fortifications. This watchtower offers spectacular views of the entire valley and the surrounding mountains.
Very close to the village is the Charca del Infierno (Hell’s Pool), a narrow gorge with a pool that usually has water year-round if you fancy a swim. Following the river, after about 6 km you’ll reach the Casasola reservoir.
Things to keep in mind
Keep in mind that in Malaga, or coastal cities, the temperature can be much more pleasant than in inland towns during the colder months. So, our first piece of advice is to bring some warm clothing.
If you decide to go hiking, wear appropriate footwear in case you have to walk through muddy and rocky areas. Hiking boots are preferable.
Didn’t make it in time?
If you missed the almond blossom, we have another lovely option for you.
Cherry Blossom in Alfarnate

We present to you the white village of Alfarnate. Located in the Axarquía region, it’s the highest village in the province, situated at 925 metres above sea level. This village is also known as the premier producer of the finest cherries.
Between the end of March and the beginning of April, the fields are covered in pink and white blossoms, a beautiful natural spectacle. Around this bloom, the village celebrates the Sakura Festival. Its an event similar to the Japanese Hanami, attracting many visitors each year. There you can enjoy hiking trails and a full program of activities centred around Japanese culture.
Everything you need to know in our article Alfarnate – The best village to see the cherry blossom in Malaga.








