Spring has Arrived! Mandelons are Blooming in Hustopeče
If you can spare a moment, don’t overlook this special opportunity to take a brief stroll just above Hustopeče. Here, you can behold a wonderful view of delicate pink flowers that emit a sweet honey-like fragrance.
Almond trees originated from Asia and thrive in warm environments. Therefore, in Europe, they are primarily cultivated in the Mediterranean region. In Hustopeče, these trees were planted after 1948 when the supply of almonds from Spain, Italy, and Greece was interrupted. The Communist government aimed to reduce the sugar industry’s reliance on the West and decided to grow almonds domestically. The area of Hustopeče provided the best conditions for almond cultivation, as its local climate resembled that of the Mediterranean closely. However, when imports from southern countries resumed after the political shift, the local almond production became less viable. From the original 50,000 trees, only 1,000 now remain on a five-hectare plot. Nonetheless, the town of Hustopeče takes pride in this botanical rarity and has successfully managed to maintain a unique almond orchard.
A stroll through an almond orchard
Currently, the orchards serve as a serene retreat. Within their heart, a towering lookout structure rises to 14 meters, and the Almond Tree Nature Trail leads visitors here as well. The most stunning views from the top of this tower are found in March and April when a sea of almond blossoms bursts into life below. Beyond the almond flowers, visitors can also gaze upon the nearby Pálava Hills from the observation point.
Visiting the almond orchards is highly recommended not just during spring, but also in August, when it’s time for harvest. You can savor the local fruits, which are available for purchase directly at the orchards or as a memento at the tourist center in Hustopeče. As for parking? The town of Hustopeče usually attracts many visitors in spring, eager to see the blossoming orchard—please utilize the parking spots on Šafaříkova Street.
Almond and Wine Festival
Over the weekend of March 21-23, 2025, join us for the next edition of the beloved Almond and Wine Festival. Come and witness the beauty of the largest almond orchard in Central Europe during its peak bloom! The festival will feature a vibrant cultural program, including performances by a dulcimer band and Aneta Langerová. You can also indulge in gourmet almond treats in the square, enjoy open wine cellars, and take in the magnificent views from the Almond Tower. There will be activities scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday in the orchards to delight hiking enthusiasts. The vast almond orchards will guide you along a 5 km nature trail with stations run by local organizations where both children and adults can complete fun tasks. At the end of their journey, participants will receive a small reward. Additionally, expect dulcimer music and open shops featuring local winemakers.
The blooming almond trees are a signal of spring’s arrival and the awakening of nature. Please show respect while in the orchards and the town: park your cars only in designated areas, dispose of trash properly, and refrain from breaking branches.
