Almond trees in Provence: a must-see

virginieinprovence
Dec 9
3 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

Taking time to smell almond blossoms in Provence, a simple and precious winter moment — Virginie in Provence enjoying almond tree blossoms in Provence at the end of winter

Have you ever been to Provence? If so, do you enjoy Provençal vegetation? I absolutely love it! There are so many different trees and plants here, such as pine trees, mimosa, almond trees, lavender, and rosemary.

Today, I’d like to tell you about almond trees. Almond trees are known for their delicate blossoms and their fruit: almonds.

In Provence, they are also loved for their spectacular flowering, which makes the region even more beautiful.

When do almond trees bloom in Provence?

Almond blossoms often mark the end of winter in Provence, sometimes as early as February — Almond tree branches in bloom against a blue sky in Provence

Almond trees generally bloom at the end of winter, between February and April. The exact timing depends on factors such as temperature and altitude. In just a few days, the blossoms can completely transform a landscape.

Where do almond trees grow?

Almond trees can be found in many parts of the world, but they are strongly associated with Mediterranean climates: Spain, Italy, Greece, southern France… and especially Provence.

Key facts about almond trees

Almond trees produce sweet or bitter almonds and are iconic of Mediterranean landscapes — Almonds growing on an almond tree before harvest in Provence

There are sweet almond trees (with edible almonds) and bitter almond trees (whose almonds are toxic).
Their flowering creates spectacular white and pink landscapes.
Almonds are usually harvested in autumn.
They are widely used in cooking (desserts, savory dishes, drinks) as well as for almond oil.
They are rich in nutrients and very good for your health.

Almond trees in art history

Almond trees inspired many artists, including Vincent van Gogh, who was fascinated by their blossoms — Portrait of Vincent van Gogh, an artist known for painting almond blossoms

The flowering of almond trees has inspired many artists over the centuries. Their early blooming, at the end of winter, often symbolizes renewal, hope, and the return of light. Vincent van Gogh is undoubtedly one of the most famous painters to have depicted almond trees, particularly with his painting Almond Blossom, created in 1890 to celebrate the birth of his nephew. The white and pink branches stand out against a clear blue sky, expressing both the fragility and the strength of life beginning anew.

Other artists, such as Édouard Manet and Claude Monet, were also drawn to flowering trees and late-winter landscapes, capturing this soft light and the transition between seasons. In Provence, almond trees in bloom evoke this same atmosphere: a quiet, suspended moment when nature gently announces the arrival of spring.

Where can you see almond trees in Provence?

You can already see some in my garden during your immersion stay in Rousset (we have four almond trees).

But they can also be found all over Provence, including:

The Valensole plateau (between the Luberon and the Verdon)
The Durance Valley (especially around Manosque, Pertuis, and Cavaillon)
The Luberon Regional Natural Park
The Alpilles (notably near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence)

In short, almond trees are everywhere in Provence.

A very good reason to visit Provence in winter

I know that winter doesn’t always sound appealing “on paper”… and yet. Temperatures remain mild, traffic is quieter, and it’s the perfect time to discover wonders such as almond trees in bloom.

I could also tell you about the Mimosa Route or the Camargue.

If you come to stay with me for an immersion in Provence, I’ll help you discover the landscapes, culture, and gastronomy of the region—all while naturally improving your French through everyday life.

See you soon in Provence,

Virginie in Provence 🌿