Gyrophragmium dunalii was investigated for volatile compounds by GC/MS. Thirty volatile components were identified. The major volatile constituents of mushrooms from the Mediterranean basin and Atlantic Ocean sand dunes were benzaldehyde (44.2% and 27.6%, respectively) and benzyl alcohol (11.0% and 38.0%, respectively). The volatile component proportions correspond to 410 and 990 µg.g-1of fresh weight from Mediterranean and Atlantic specimens, respectively. Combined benzaldehyde and benzyl alcohol content is the key compound content responsible for the complex almond odor with an anise note of G. dunalii. Benzaldehyde with its bitter almond odor is widely used as an aroma component in food, cosmetics and flavor industries.