Free walking tours in Guijuelo and what to see

Must-sees

Guijuelo is in the south of Salamanca province, among holm oak dehesa pastures, and its name is synonymous with Iberian ham. The area's cold, dry climate favours curing, and more than a hundred ham companies operate in the municipality. The best way to understand it is the Cured Meat Industry Museum, which uses audiovisuals, tools and old machinery to explain how Iberian pork is processed and preserved.

The town is more industrial than monumental, but it has some interesting corners. El Torreón, on the outskirts, is the Gothic apse that remains of a 15th-century church. In the centre are the Plaza Mayor, where the weekly market is held, and the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. And do not leave without trying the ham in one of the bars and restaurants in the centre.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free walking tours in Guijuelo, but there are guided visits to ham producers, which show the drying sheds and cellars and finish with an Iberian tasting. Some also include the dehesa where the pigs are raised. The municipal tourist office has information on the options.

How long to spend

Half a day is enough for the museum, El Torreón and a visit to a ham producer with tasting. If you add the dehesa, allow the full day. With two days you can also visit Candelario, with its steep streets and mountain architecture, and Béjar, with its ducal palace and walls. Salamanca is less than an hour away.

Where to stay

The most convenient option is to stay in the centre of Guijuelo, near the Plaza Mayor, where there are hotels and guesthouses for visitors and business travellers. Around the town there are rural houses among the dehesa, a good option if you have a car. For more atmosphere, Salamanca has much more choice, and Candelario or Béjar are mountain alternatives.