Los Fayos lies on the banks of the Queiles in the Somontano area of Moncayo, at the foot of a cliff face typical of the region, known as a mallo. The village combines a striking landscape with medieval architecture and several different routes. For planning, it is worth distinguishing between them: some trails pass through Los Fayos, while others are circular routes or form part of longer pilgrimage routes.
Rocky Landscape and Birdlife
The Sierra del Moncayo–Los Fayos–Sierra de Armas has been designated a Special Protection Area (ZEPA) for birds. More than 80 bird species considered particularly worthy of protection have been recorded there, with cliff-nesting birds of prey especially numerous. The course of the River Val and its reservoir are recognized as a Refugio de Fauna Silvestre, or wildlife refuge. Thus, along with its rocky landscape, designated protected areas are among the defining natural features of the area.
Castle, Caves and Architecture
Cueva del Caco was part of the 12th-century medieval castle of Los Fayos. Its archaeological features include a grain silo and a cistern, which was intended to allow occupants to hold out in the event of a siege. A square defensive tower and a round watchtower remain at the castle. The round tower’s base is nine metres in diameter and dates from the 14th century. Around 333 steps lead up to the tower; from the top, there are spectacular views of the village and the slopes of Moncayo. In 2014, the castle was designated a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC), or Asset of Cultural Interest.
The religious buildings also reflect different chapters in the village’s history. The Ermita de San Benito is carved into the rock and forms part of a former Benedictine monastic complex. It houses an altarpiece from Veruela Monastery, which was dissolved during the confiscation of church property. The Church of Santa MarĂa Magdalena was built between 1570 and 1575. Its Baroque high altar dates from the 17th century and includes a painting of Saint Mary Magdalene by Vicente Berdusán. Visitors can see the church and its bell tower along the “Huella mudĂ©jar del Moncayo” route.
Another landmark is the Palace of the Dukes of Villahermosa: a three-storey brick building from the 17th century, designed in the style of Aragonese Renaissance and Baroque houses. The Roman aqueduct began in Los Fayos; its course follows that of the present-day Acequia MagallĂłn, also known as RĂo Alto. The Museo de la CetrerĂa is housed in the former prison and introduces visitors to the techniques and animals used in falconry.
Routes with Different Formats
The fifth stage of the Camino Natural del Agua Soriano is 18 kilometres long. It starts in Vozmediano, passes through Los Fayos and Torrellas, and ends in monumental Tarazona. Towards Torrellas, the trail leaves Los Fayos on the left bank of the Queiles. Another option is Route 15: a circular route starting and ending in Los Fayos that passes through the rocky area of Roquedo del Alto de la Dehesa, El Cerro and the Embalse de El Val. The return leg follows the reservoir shore. The routes therefore differ in their layout: one is a stage linking several villages and ending elsewhere, while the other is a circular route returning along the water.
The Pequeño Recorrido Z1 Tarazona–Tarazona passes through Los Fayos, Santa Cruz de Moncayo, Tarazona and Torrellas. After more than 20 years of deterioration, the route was restored for hiking and cycling. It is considered suitable for families and is described as having little elevation gain. Those interested in pilgrimage routes can also follow the Camino Jacobeo Castellano Aragonés, which passes through Los Fayos: it runs for almost 300 kilometres from Gallur to Burgos and is divided into 14 stages.
Festivals and Practical Information
The Cetreralia falconry fair takes place on a Saturday during the second week of September; dates may vary from year to year. The Fiestas de la MatacĂa reenact a very old tradition in Aragonese villages and include culinary and educational activities, as well as performances. San Benito is celebrated on 21 March and 11 July. The main festivities in honour of Santa Bárbara take place on the third Wednesday in August. Check the dates locally before your trip.
Guided tours of Los Fayos are offered at 11:30 am and 4:00 pm; check the current schedule before your visit. The motorhome area has eight pitches and is open year-round. As conditions may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Biel, Juslibol, Purujosa, Alhama De AragĂłn, Alborge, Fuendetodos, Terrer, La Muela.
For the main travel overview: Zaragoza.
