Three preserved dolmens, paths through varied landscapes and a seasonal window for observing white storks give Facinas several specific highlights for a stay. Options range from a hike of about two hours to longer routes and cultural themes.
Hiking, Cycling and Bird Migration
The Ribera de Saladaviciosa route is an easy three-kilometre hike that takes about two hours. The Montes de Tarifa cycling route is a linear 27.34-kilometre trail with a stated duration of three hours and a moderate difficulty level. This offers different time options for planning your day: about two hours on foot or three hours by bike.
The Montes de Tarifa cycling route starts at the car park in the Los Tornos recreation area and initially follows the CA-7200 towards Facinas. The Valle de Ojén route runs along the former Facinas–Los Barrios road, which is no longer classified as a road and still has patches of asphalt in places. Cyclists and hikers share this route.
Puerto de Facinas offers wide views over the surrounding valley and is a good place to observe the post-breeding migration of white storks. The period described for this is from late July to the first half of August, making bird migration a distinctly seasonal focus for trip planning.
Landscape and Prehistoric Traces
Facinas stretches along the northern slope of the Sierra de Saladavisiosa. The Garganta Mariano route passes through two different riparian woodlands, as well as cork oak forest and scrubland. The Ribera de Saladaviciosa route also features cork oak stands, wild olive trees and areas of dense fern growth. Prehistoric burial sites are also located along this route, including a dolmen with a simple chamber and a menhir almost two metres high.
Three dolmens survive in Facinas; they originated as funerary and ritual structures dating from the Metal Age. These prehistoric sites offer a distinct way to explore the cultural landscape, while the routes also take in different types of vegetation.
Church, Music and Festivities
The oldest known record of the existence of a church in Facinas dates from 1 October 1759. The Iglesia de la Divina Pastora is considered one of the oldest Christian places of worship in the Tarifa area. The distinctive Fandango campero is also one of the traditions of Facinas passed down from generation to generation. The remains of several mills have also been preserved in the area.
The Romería de Facinas is a celebration in honour of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of Facinas. The image of San Isidro is carried from the Parroquia Divina Pastora to the Área Recreativa de los Tornos, accompanied by riders and decorated floats. Dates and programme details may vary, so it is advisable to check them before travelling.
Getting There and Planning Your Stay
Facinas can be reached via two turn-offs from the N-340 between kilometre markers 65 and 68. Access to Puerto de Facinas branches off the N-340 at kilometre 67.5 and follows a forest track for about 600 metres; wind turbines line the track. Check local access conditions before setting out.
The Los Tornos recreation area is considered a suitable place for barbecues; camping is possible there with prior permission. If you plan to use this option, check locally what facilities are available and what permission is required. This allows you to consider the stated activities and the specific conditions for your stay separately.
Discover more destinations: El Almarchal, Tahivilla.
Return to the main travel overview: Tarifa.
