Tarifa and Facinas Loop via Los Alcornocales

The route features mostly well-paved surfaces, making it generally easy to ride for road cyclists. Approximately 42.7 km of the route is asphalt and 3.30 km is paved, ensuring a smooth experience through the natural park.

This route is classified as a 'moderate road ride' and requires good fitness levels. While it's not as challenging as some 'hard' routes in the region, it is more demanding than 'easy' routes. It's best suited for cyclists with some experience rather than absolute beginners.

You'll cycle through a quieter section of Los Alcornocales Natural Park, Europe's largest cork oak forest. Expect to see dense cork oak forests, open pastures, and sweeping hills. Depending on the season, you might observe bird migration in spring and fall, and potentially encounter wildlife such as deer or birds of prey.

Along the route, you can pass by historical sites like Guzmán el Bueno Castle and Puerta de Jerez in Tarifa. You'll also traverse the scenic Puerto de Facinas and ride along the beautiful Ojén Road in Parque Natural Los Alcornocales, offering stunning lookouts and coastal views.

As the route starts and ends in Tarifa, you can typically find parking within the town. Specific parking areas are not detailed, but general public parking lots or street parking in Tarifa would be your best option to begin the circular tour.

The route offers beautiful scenery year-round. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant for cycling, with comfortable temperatures and the added bonus of potentially observing bird migration. Summers can be hot, so early morning rides are recommended during those months.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on established routes within Los Alcornocales Natural Park. However, it's always advisable to respect park regulations, stay on marked paths, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

This route is designed for racebike cycling on paved roads. While dogs are generally allowed in Los Alcornocales Natural Park, bringing a dog on a racebike route of this nature is not typically recommended or practical. If you plan to bring a dog, consider alternative walking or hiking trails within the park that are more suitable for pets.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other paths. Notably, it covers approximately 55% of the Transandalus trail, 20% of the Sendero Europeo Arco Atlantico - Etapa 1, 14% of the Andalucía (Province of Cádiz) route, and 13% of the Camino de Santiago del Estrecho.

The route passes through Facinas, where you can find local cafes or shops to refuel. Starting and ending in Tarifa also provides ample opportunities for refreshments and amenities before and after your ride.

Given it's a moderate racebike route, you should bring your racebike, appropriate cycling attire, a helmet, water bottles (enough for approximately 2 hours of riding), snacks, a basic repair kit, and sun protection. A phone with the komoot app for navigation is also highly recommended.