Facinas – Nature Trails and Historical Heritage

Facinas stretches along the northern slope of the Sierra de Saladavisiosa. Puerto de Facinas offers sweeping views across the surrounding valley and is suitable for observing the post-breeding migration of white storks, which takes place from the end of July through the first half of August.

You can also explore Tahivilla and El Almarchal.

Nature and Trails

The Montes de Tarifa cycle route is a linear trail covering 27.34 kilometers, with a duration of 3 hours and a moderate difficulty level. It begins at the equipped car park in the Los Tornos recreation area and initially follows the CA-7200 toward Facinas.

Puerto de Facinas can be reached from the N-340 at kilometer 67.5 via approximately 600 meters of forest track; wind turbines stand along this route. Facinas itself can be reached via two turnoffs from the N-340 between kilometers 65 and 68.

The Valle de Ojén route follows the former Facinas–Los Barrios road, which is no longer classified as a road today and still has remnants of asphalt in places. The path is shared by cyclists and hikers.

The Ribera de Saladaviciosa route is a comfortable hike of approximately 3 kilometers, taking about 2 hours. It passes through cork oak groves, wild olive trees and areas of dense fern growth, as well as prehistoric burial sites, including a simple-chamber dolmen and a menhir almost two meters high.

The Garganta Mariano route passes through two different riparian forests as well as cork oak woodland and scrubland. The Los Tornos recreation area is considered a suitable place for barbecues; camping is possible there with prior permission.

History and Culture

Three dolmens have been preserved in Facinas. They originated as funerary and cult structures of the Metal Age. The oldest known evidence of the existence of the church of Facinas dates from October 1, 1759.

The Iglesia de la Divina Pastora is considered one of the oldest Christian centers of worship in the area surrounding Tarifa. The remains of several mills have also been preserved in the Facinas area.

Festivals and Traditions

The program for Carnaval de Facinas 2026 includes a week of street festivals, music and entertainment, performances by groups, parades, family activities and gatherings around the Caseta Municipal.

The Romería de Facinas is a celebration in honor of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of Facinas. During the Romería de Facinas, San Isidro Labrador is taken from the Parroquia Divina Pastora to the Área Recreativa de los Tornos, accompanied by riders and floats.

At the Romería de Facinas, some chiringuitos serve pinchos, montaditos, various drinks and wine from the region. One of Facinas’s traditions passed down from generation to generation is the distinctive Fandango campero.

In Facinas, the Fuente de La Mesta is considered one of the most frequently visited springs.

For the broader travel overview: Tarifa.