El Tablero can be explored through a variety of cultural perspectives: the Camino de Candelaria is a protected historic route, some traditional structures are still visible, and contemporary art is associated with the town. There is also “Un Día Rural,” an organised programme about agriculture, animals and natural resources. When planning, it is worth keeping these highlights distinct: the route and local history sit alongside a hands-on activity organised by a provider.
The Camino de Candelaria
The Camino de Candelaria begins on Calle El Convento in upper El Tablero and heads south towards Machado. In upper El Tablero, a 500-metre section forms part of the route protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural. Features of this section include paved stretches and a dry-stone boundary wall. The 500-metre figure refers to this section, not to the total length of the Camino. This clearly distinguishes the route’s southern course from the length of the protected section.
Traditional structures and contemporary art
Other cultural points of interest in El Tablero include some visible traditional ovens, threshing floors and wine presses. These different structures complement the Camino by offering traces of rural work. Some may not be set up for visits. A different note is struck by the contemporary artwork “Ya cuesta rodar” at Era de Marina Reyes, created specifically for El Tablero. The contrast is clear: ovens, threshing floors and wine presses represent traditional rural structures, while “Ya cuesta rodar” is a contemporary work created for the town.
Agriculture as an organised experience
“Un Día Rural” combines activities with educational content. Participants can feed farm animals, sow seeds in the organic garden and go on a short horseback ride. They are also taken through several educational areas. These cover sustainable development, agricultural topics, the care of animals, and the use and transformation of natural resources. The combination of hands-on activities and learning sets this programme apart from the cultural and historical themes of the Camino and the traditional structures. Participation is organised through the provider; group arrangements may require advance coordination.
Landscape, festival and patron saint celebrations
At the Festival Rural Las Eras de El Tablero, the local landscape became the setting for artistic and creative activities in 2016, with residents taking part. Unlike the individual artwork “Ya cuesta rodar,” the focus here is on activities in the landscape and community involvement. A programme of patron saint celebrations in El Tablero included festivities in honour of Saint Joseph in March 2023. These included a children’s celebration in Plaza de San José and a folklore festival.
Highlights for your stay
When planning, a useful distinction is the type of experience: the Camino and traditional structures provide cultural and historical points of interest, while “Un Día Rural” combines organised participation with educational content. If you are looking for a holiday rental in El Tablero, you can weigh up whether you are more interested in local history or an organised agricultural programme.
Discover more destinations: El Escobonal
Back to the main travel overview: Güimar.
