XIII CxM Faraján

CxM Faraján

CxM Faraján is a mountain race through the heart of the Genal Valley, deep in Sierra Bermeja, starting and finishing in Faraján, one of the smallest and most remote white villages in Málaga province. In 2026 it celebrates its thirteenth edition, a fixture on the Málaga Provincial Council’s Mountain Race Circuit.

The route crosses the municipalities of Faraján, Jubrique and Júzcar, alternating trails, forest tracks and firebreaks through one of the most valuable natural areas of the Serranía de Ronda.

A 23K route through Sierra Bermeja

The 23K Long Race climbs 1,323m of elevation gain on a circuit that passes some of the Genal Valley’s most distinctive landmarks:

• The Caseta del Jardón, the route’s highest point and one of the area’s best viewpoints
• The Chorreras del Balastar, waterfalls and pools that cool the middle section
• Extensive centuries-old chestnut groves, a hallmark of the Genal Valley
• Pine forests and cork oak groves typical of Sierra Bermeja, with demanding firebreak sections

The 11K Short Race, with 650m D+, offers a more accessible taste of the same terrain — ideal for runners new to mountain trail or looking for a shorter distance.

December in the Genal Valley

Being a December race gives CxM Faraján its own character: the chestnut groves have already dropped their leaves, the air is crisp and cold, and the Caseta del Jardón can offer clear views all the way to the coast on a good day. It also means packing a windbreaker, since temperatures at the top of the course can drop several degrees below the village. Registration is capped at 450 participants, a sign of the intimate scale of a race organized by the Faraján town council.

The Genal Valley beyond the race

Faraján is the gateway to one of Andalusia’s least crowded corners. A few minutes away lies Júzcar, known as the “Smurf village” after being painted blue for a film premiere, and a little further, Ronda, with its Tajo gorge and Puente Nuevo. For more mountain races in the area, check out races in Andalucía and plan your calendar with the planner.