Tenerife’s ‘Cross Camino del Campesino’ Race Celebrates Traditional Farming Heritage

This August, the second annual "Cross Camino del Campesino" in northern Tenerife successfully combined outdoor activity with the preservation of local heritage. As noted by event spokesperson Iván García, this race—part of the Icod el Alto festival program—is more than just a sporting competition; it is a way to celebrate and raise awareness of the rural identity of Los Realejos.

What makes the race unique is how it incorporates traditional farming tasks into the course. Teams must complete challenges that mimic historical agricultural work, such as using a threshing sledge, carrying pine needles, or planting potatoes. Supported by the Los Realejos City Council and the local festival committee, the event aims to connect physical activity with a deeper appreciation for iconic Canarian products like wine and mojo sauce.

The event is rooted in the history of Icod el Alto, a town located in the Tigaiga Mountains. Historically, this area has been a hub for mid-altitude farming, where the cultivation of grains and rare potato varieties has shaped both the landscape and the local economy. The local council has made preserving this legacy a priority, hosting events to protect traditional seeds and farming techniques, such as the demonstration of "papa bonita" planting.

Ultimately, the Cross Camino del Campesino serves as a bridge for cultural history. By turning traditional farm work into a scavenger hunt, the event ensures that local heritage stays alive through active participation rather than just remaining in history books. This approach helps younger generations connect with the trades that built Tenerife’s mid-altitude regions, strengthening a sense of pride in a community still deeply tied to the land.