Facinas: Nature Trails, Dolmens and Festivals

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

Other places: El Almarchal, Tahivilla

Nature

The Garganta Mariano route passes through two different riparian forests as well as cork oak woodland and scrubland. The Ribera de Saladaviciosa route passes through cork oak stands, wild olive trees and areas with dense fern growth. It also passes prehistoric burial sites, including a dolmen with a simple chamber and an almost two-metre-high menhir. Ribera de Saladaviciosa is a comfortable 3-kilometre hike lasting approximately 2 hours. Fuente de La Mesta is known as one of the most visited springs in Facinas. Different route lengths, landscapes and themes can be clearly compared when planning your day.

Trails and Excursions

The Montes de Tarifa cycle route begins at the equipped car park in the Los Tornos recreation area and initially follows the CA-7200 towards Facinas. As a linear route, it is 27.34 kilometres long, takes 3 hours and has a moderate difficulty level. 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. It is shared by cyclists and hikers.

The Los Tornos recreation area is considered a suitable place for barbecues; camping is possible there with prior authorisation. Puerto de Facinas can be reached from the N-340 at kilometre 67.5 via approximately 600 metres of forest track; wind turbines are located along this track. Facinas itself can be reached via two turn-offs from the N-340 between kilometres 65 and 68.

History and Culture

Three dolmens have been preserved in Facinas; they originated as funerary and cult structures of the Metal Age. The Iglesia de la Divina Pastora is considered one of the oldest Christian centres of worship in the area around Tarifa. The oldest known evidence of the existence of the church in Facinas dates from 1 October 1759. The remains of several mills have also been preserved in the Facinas area. The special Fandango campero is one of Facinas's traditions passed down from generation to generation.

Festivals and Traditions

The Romería de Facinas is a celebration in honour of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of Facinas. During the celebration, San Isidro Labrador is taken from the Parroquia Divina Pastora to the Área Recreativa de los Tornos, accompanied by riders and floats. Some chiringuitos serve pinchos, montaditos, various drinks and wine from the region.

The programme for Carnaval de Facinas 2026 comprises a week of street festivals, music and entertainment, group performances, parades, family activities and gatherings around the Caseta Municipal.

For the higher-level travel overview: Tarifa.