Our friends at World Expeditions (and its two European specialists, UTracks and Sherpa Expeditions) shared their knowledge on when to see the most beautiful flowers in bloom.
CHERRY TREES
Where? Japan
When? March-April
Springtime in Japan is magical. From late March to mid-April or even early May, its iconic cherry blossoms capture the attention of visitors and locals alike as their beautiful pink flowers blanket the country in soft, colourful splendour.
Japan has more than 100 varieties of cherry trees, but the season is very short – most blossoms are only on show for a week.
DAFFODILS
Where? North Yorkshire
When? March-April
Daffodils may be typically associated with the English countryside, but for the genuine wild variety (two-tone yellow flowers, narrow trumpets and forward pointing petals) head to North Yorkshire.
The daffodils at Farndale Valley are reputed to have been planted by the monks of the nearby Rievaulx Abbey and there is a dedicated mile-long “daffodil walk” to fuel Wizard of Oz fantasies.
RHODODENDRONS
Where? Nepal
When? March-May
The highest diversity of rhododendrons in the world can be found in the Himalaya. At lower elevations the flowers are a vibrant red but, as altitude increases, the colour shifts to pink, gradually becoming pure white.
If you visit Nepal in March and April you will find the blooming trees blanket the hills.
TULIPS
Where? Holland, Netherlands
When? April-May
From the moment the first bulb was planted in Dutch soil in 1593, the country became famous for its tulips.
Every March the fields turn into carpets of lime green sprouts as the first signs of spring emerge. By the time the season is in full swing, the area resembles a colourful patchwork, swathed in red, pink, purple, orange and yellow blooms.
LAVENDER
Where? Provence, France
When? June-August
With colours varying from violet to indigo and everything in between, the lavender fields in Provence are guaranteed to take your breath away.
The heady scent of lavender is strongest in the heart of the summer.
SUNFLOWERS
Where? Tuscany, Italy
When? July-August
Sunflowers in bloom are a striking sight. In Tuscany they are an iconic sight. Follow the backroads in the warm summer months and spot the sun-loving “girasoli” among cypresses, vineyards and traditional Tuscan architecture.
ORCHIDS
Where? Madeira
When? Year-round
Madeira’s subtropical climate and rich volcanic soil make for perfect growing conditions and orchids here enjoy an impressive year-round flowering season.
There is a dedicated Orchid Garden with more than 7,500 species, while a week-long Flower Festival takes place every spring.
(Featured image: The Flower Festival of Paju City, Korea by UNC – CFC – USFK)
