Jafre combines a river route, protected nature and a distinctive religious heritage. The lower section of the Ruta del Ter runs through the municipality between Girona and the Gola del Ter; the cycling and walking route follows the River Ter. South of the municipality lies L’Illa d’Avall, part of the Natura 2000 site “Riberes del Baix Ter”. Nature exploration, local history and traditions offer different ways to shape a stay.

River Route and Nature Watching

L’Illa d’Avall has a network of trails for exploring nature, which can be used on foot or by bicycle. The trails offer opportunities to observe animal tracks and numerous bird species. The landscape comprises a mosaic of riparian woodland, ponds in a former river channel, dry meadows and Mediterranean scrub. Those who include the Ruta del Ter and the trails on L’Illa d’Avall in their plans will find two distinct ways to experience nature: a cycling and walking route along the river, and trails through different habitats with opportunities to observe animals and birds.

Church, Sanctuary and Legends

The streets of Jafre lead to the church of Sant Martí. The present building was constructed in the second half of the 18th century in the Renaissance style and was partly built over the remains of an earlier medieval castle. The single-nave church is complemented by side chapels, a Latin cross floor plan, a polygonal apse and a dome over the crossing. The cross-shaped layout and dome give the church a clearly recognisable form; its connection with the older castle structures adds another historical layer.

Another landmark is the Santuari Font Santa, considered Jafre’s most distinctive building. Events associated with the sanctuary are said to date back to 1460. A chapel dedicated to the Mare de Déu de Gràcia was built at the Font Santa spring. A local healing legend is also associated with the water: according to the legend, it has healing properties. In the past, pilgrims came to the spring seeking cures for eye diseases and other ailments.

Local folklore also includes the Pou de les Goiges. According to legend, fantastical female beings lived there, hiding during the day and coming out at night to call and dance. These stories add a mythical perspective on Jafre to the history of its buildings.

Biennal and Fira de Jafre

The Biennal de Jafre takes place every two years in odd-numbered years in the historic centre. If you plan your visit around this event, check the dates of the edition you wish to attend in advance. The Fira de Jafre has a different focus: it celebrates the culture of craft-brewed beer and products from the region. The products on offer include cheese, honey, cured meats, bread and olives. Each edition features beer tastings; the best beer submitted by the breweries is also selected. If you are planning a trip around one of the events, checking the specific event dates is a useful starting point.

Getting There and Choosing Your Stay

A bus route connects L’Estartit with Girona via Jafre. If you plan to use this service, check the current timetable before travelling. When choosing a holiday apartment in Jafre, you can start by deciding which focus best suits your stay: the Ruta del Ter offers cycling and walking along the river, while L’Illa d’Avall offers opportunities to explore nature and observe wildlife. Sant Martí, Font Santa and the local legends may appeal to those interested in architectural and religious history; the Biennal and the Fira each offer their own cultural or culinary highlights. This makes it easier to tailor your accommodation search to the things you want to explore locally.

Discover more destinations: Campllong, El Far d’Empordà, Sant Mori, Aiguaviva, Sant Jordi Desvalls, Rabós, Ribes De Freser, Sant Andreu Salou.

For the broader travel overview: Girona.