Faraján
XIII CxM Faraján
Sunday, 6 December 2026
Registration open for XIII CxM Faraján 2026
Places for UTMB World Series races sell out. Secure your bib.
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Race 23K | 23 km | D+ 1323m | - | - |
| Short Race 11K | 11 km | D+ 650m | - | - |
XIII CxM Faraján requires mandatory gear: get it sorted early
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
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See comparisonWhat you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Black Diamond
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
226ERS
226ERS Sub9 Salts Electrolytes
How long will it take you?
Estimate your race time based on distance, elevation and your runner level.
Historical weather
Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)
Temperature
7°C – 14°C
Average 10°C
Rain
33%
3.6 mm avg
Wind
16 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
7h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (33% chance of rain)
Asics
Asics Gel-Trabuco 14 GTX
A best-selling beginner trail shoe: GEL cushioning, good stability and a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane. Versatile and reliable for training on mixed terrain in any weather.
Berghaus
Berghaus Paclite 2.0 GTX
Waterproof jacket with a Gore-Tex Paclite membrane (around 330 g). Fully waterproof with taped seams, fixed adjustable hood, storm flap behind the zip and cuff adjustment. Packs down small in a vest. Heavier than a pure running hardshell, but it meets the waterproof-breathable membrane requirement in race rules and is the affordable route into Gore-Tex.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Glove
Glove with a fully waterproof, windproof GORE-TEX membrane and light insulation. The pick for running in snow, sleet or heavy rain while keeping your hand dry.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear M GORE-TEX Thermo Glove
Warmer variant of the Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX: the same fully waterproof, windproof membrane, with extra thermal lining for intense cold on top of snow or rain. The pick when the problem isn't just water, but water AND hard cold at once.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear R7 GTX Shakedry
Chubasquero Gore-Tex Shakedry ultraligero (110 g). Impermeabilidad total sin membrana interior, altamente transpirable. El referente para corredores de montaña.
Nike
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX
The best-selling gateway trail shoe: comfortable, cushioned and versatile for moving from road to trail. Waterproof GORE-TEX version, perfect for beginners and easy runs on mixed terrain.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti Pro Waterproof Glove
Lightweight waterproof glove built for running, not just standing still in the snow: a waterproof membrane with more dexterity and less bulk than a thick membrane glove, for sustained rain without giving up handling gels or poles.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti WP
Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.
Sealskinz
Sealskinz Waterproof Lightweight Glove
Lightweight waterproof glove from a brand that specializes in outdoor sport waterproofing. A solid middle ground between a thin windproof glove and a thick membrane glove: genuinely waterproof without the bulk or price of the Gore C5.
TRIWONDER
TRIWONDER Polainas Impermeables Trail
Waterproof, breathable low gaiters for trail running, hiking and mountain use. Under-shoe strap and adjustable elastic band. A budget-friendly alternative to premium technical brand gaiters.
Bring thermal layers (low of 7°C)
Buff
Buff Thermonet
Buff tubular térmico con tecnología Primaloft. Retiene el calor corporal, ultraligero y polivalente: gorro, braga, cinta. Ideal para alta montaña.
Craft
Craft Pro Hypervent LS Wind Top
Thermal top with a windproof ripstop panel on the chest and a highly ventilated soft jersey back. Built for high-intensity sessions in cold, windy conditions, with long cuffs and thumb loops.
HANKER
HANKER Braga de Cuello Térmica
Unisex thermal seamless neck gaiter in Soft Air Plus fabric (97% polyester). Seamless fit designed for trail running, cycling, motorcycling and outdoor sports. A budget alternative to Buff for moderate cold.
Icebreaker
Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis LS Crewe
Long-sleeve thermal top in 100% merino wool (200g). Natural temperature regulation, genuine multi-day odor resistance and a soft, non-itch handfeel from the fine merino yarn.
Odlo
Odlo Active Warm Eco
Camiseta térmica de manga larga con tejido reciclado y tratamiento antiolor. Regulación térmica activa, ideal como capa base en montaña.
Odlo
Odlo I-Thermic Longsleeve Mujer
Women's long-sleeve thermal top with insulating panels placed over cold-sensitive areas (lower back and kidneys). A mid-layer built for genuinely cold winter conditions, mountain outings or cross-country-style trail sessions.
Salomon
Salomon Agile LS Tee
Lightweight quick-dry polyester long-sleeve tee with underarm mesh, a side pocket and reflective details. Works as a standalone layer in mild cold or as a base layer under a windbreaker on colder days.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Run Tight
Mallas largas de trail con tejido elástico y transpirable. Cintura ajustable, bolsillo trasero con cremallera. Protección contra el frío y la vegetación.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Warm Glove
Guantes térmicos de running con palma antideslizante y puntas táctiles. Ligeros, cálidos y compatibles con bastones.
Under Armour
Under Armour ColdGear Armour Compression Mock
Compression thermal top with a dual-layer fabric: ultra-warm brushed interior and quick-dry exterior. Second-skin compression fit with stretch mesh panels at the back and underarms for ventilation without losing warmth.
Forecast for 6 December
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
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.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
Recommended: the Caseta del Jardón area is exposed to wind in December
360Complete Pack
CxM Faraján 2026 registration
RegistrationOnline registration through DorsalChip, capped at 450 participants across both mountain distances. A well-established twelfth edition on Málaga province's mountain race calendar.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Online registration closes November 15 at 23:55
- •450 spots total, split between the 23K and 11K
- •Check your registration and the participant list on DorsalChip
Where to stay in Faraján
AccommodationFaraján is a small village in the Genal Valley with very limited lodging. It's worth staying in nearby towns with more hotel capacity.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Faraján and Júzcar have a few rural guesthouses, but with limited availability
- •Ronda (35 min) has the widest hotel offering in the area
- •December is low season, but still book ahead for race weekend
Gear for CxM Faraján
GearA mountain race with 1,323m D+ on the 23K, through trails, forest tracks and firebreaks of Sierra Bermeja. Technical terrain with chestnut groves and loose stone sections.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
Black Diamond
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
Ultralight carbon Z-pole foldable trekking poles. 137 g per pole in 110 cm length, 33 cm folded. EVA grip and adjustable strap. The trail running reference.
Compressport
Compressport UltRun Vest
Chaleco de hidratación minimalista pensado para carreras cortas y de montaña donde el peso importa más que la capacidad. Ajuste ceñido tipo segunda piel, ideal para llevar solo lo esencial sin sacrificar estabilidad en carrera.
Hoka
Hoka Speedgoat 7
The best-selling trail shoe in the US and an absolute ultra-trail classic. Max Hoka cushioning, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip in mud and technical terrain, and a snug Matryx upper. Built to eat up kilometres without punishing your legs in long races.
Altra
Altra Lone Peak 9
Trail running shoe with zero drop and wide FootShape toe box that allows natural toe splay. 25 mm stack with EGO foam for balanced cushioning without losing ground contact. MaxTrac outsole with 3.5 mm lugs, ideal for non-technical trails, forest tracks and long-distance paths.
New Balance
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
The model breaking into Spain's best-seller charts. Fresh Foam X midsole with a solid balance between cushioning and ground feel, a Vibram Megagrip outsole, and a comfortable last suited to wide feet. A reliable all-rounder for training runs and mountain races of any distance.
Saucony
Saucony Peregrine 16
The all-round trail shoe par excellence, with excellent reviews across every type of runner. PWRTRAC outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip on mixed and technical terrain, balanced PWRRUN cushioning, and rock-plate protection depending on the version. The perfect middle ground between responsiveness and protection.
Freet
Freet Feldom 3
100% barefoot trail shoe with zero drop, minimal stack (6 mm sole) and anatomical last that respects the natural width of the foot. No midsole cushioning: maximum proprioception and ground feedback. Multi-directional lugs for dirt trails and paths. Designed for runners already adapted to minimalist footwear or those transitioning gradually from cushioned natural footwear.
Tips
- •Trail shoes with strong grip: leaf litter and loose stone in the chestnut groves
- •Poles highly recommended for the Long Race's elevation gain
- •Windbreaker required: the Caseta del Jardón area can be windy and cold in December
Which shoes for XIII CxM Faraján?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for XIII CxM Faraján?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best Neck Gaiter (Buff) for Trail Running 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide
Comparison of the best neck gaiters for trail running in 2026: Buff Original, Midweight, Windproof, DryFlx, CoolNet UV+, Thermonet, HANKER and Salomon Merino. Which to pick based on sun, wind, cold or budget.
Best Thermal Base Layer for Trail Running 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide
The best thermal base layers for trail running in 2026: Odlo Active Warm Eco, Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis, Craft Pro Hypervent, Under Armour ColdGear, Salomon Agile LS Tee and Odlo I-Thermic. Which to pick based on cold, sweat management, merino wool, compression or built-in wind protection.
Best Trail Running Gaiters 2026: 3-Way Comparison
Comparing the 3 best trail running gaiters in 2026: Salomon Trail Gaiters High, Salomon Trail Gaiters Low and TRIWONDER waterproof gaiters. Which to pick by terrain and budget.
Nutrition for CxM Faraján
NutritionWith up to 1,323m D+ on a mountain course, it's worth carrying extra supplies beyond the official aid stations.
226ERS
226ERS Sub9 Salts Electrolytes
Mineral salt capsules with 250 mg of sodium each, plus potassium, magnesium and ginger extract for better digestive tolerance. The highest sodium per capsule from Spain's benchmark endurance brand. Zero calories: you replace salts without touching your gel plan.
Dorimed
Dátiles Medjool Dorimed
Palestinian Medjool dates, large and juicy. Each one delivers around 18 g of carbohydrates in a very compact format. Soft texture, easy to chew and with extremely high caloric density. The classic choice among runners looking for natural alternatives to gels.
Maurten
Maurten Gel 100
Gel de hidrogel con 25g de carbohidratos. La tecnología de hidrogel encapsula los carbohidratos para una absorción sin molestias gástricas. Sabor neutro, sin edulcorantes artificiales. Usado por corredores de élite en maratón y ultra.
Crown Sport Nutrition
Crown Sport Nutrition 3:1 Recovery+
Recuperador muscular a base de proteína de suero aislada (whey isolate) con ratio carbohidratos-proteína 3:1, enriquecido con L-Leucina y L-Glutamina. Certificado Informed Sport y sin alérgenos añadidos. Formato de 750 g, sabor sandía.
GU
GU Energy Gel Original
Gel energético con 100 calorías y 21g de carbohidratos por sobre. Mezcla de maltodextrina y fructosa para absorción óptima. Incluye aminoácidos y electrolitos. El gel más usado en ultratrails de todo el mundo.
226ERS
226ERS Isotonic Drink
Bebida isotónica en polvo de la marca española 226ERS. Aporta carbohidratos, electrolitos y minerales para mantener la hidratación durante el ejercicio. Fórmula con amilopectina para absorción rápida sin molestias digestivas.
Victory Endurance
Victory Endurance Total Recovery
Preparado en polvo para bebida de recuperación post-entreno con carbohidratos, electrolitos y proteína en ratio BCAA 2:1:1. Incluye 12 vitaminas y 9 minerales para acelerar la recuperación muscular tras un trail largo. Formato de 1250 g, sabor sandía.
226ERS
226ERS Recovery Drink
Muscle recovery shake from Spanish brand 226ERS. Formula with whey protein, amylopectin, amino acids (including glutamine and BCAAs) and minerals. Carb-to-protein ratio optimised for the post-exercise window. Good taste and digestive tolerance.
Tips
- •Carry extra gels or dried fruit for the long climbs
- •Cold weather can mask dehydration: drink regularly
- •Eat breakfast with plenty of time before the start at Plaza de Andalucía
Getting to Faraján
TransportFaraján sits deep in the Genal Valley, in the Serranía de Ronda, reachable only by mountain road.
Browse all transportTips
- •Málaga Airport (AGP) about 90 minutes away via the A-7 and A-369
- •Ronda 35 minutes away, the area's main reference town
- •No direct public transport: a car is essential
Car rental for CxM Faraján
Car RentalA car is the only practical way to reach Faraján and get around the Genal Valley before and after the race.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus
SUV/crossover vehicle rental subscription, ideal for reaching mountain races via rural roads and forest tracks.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud City
Urban vehicle rental subscription, perfect for getting to races with good highway and conventional road access.
Carla
Carla Car Rental - Reserva ahora, paga después
Car rental comparison in over 180 countries with free cancellation. Book now and pay when you pick up the vehicle, no hidden fees or upfront card charges.
Hertz
Hertz - Alquiler de coches
Car rental with one of the world's most recognised brands, with offices at airports and cities across Spain.
Tips
- •Pick up your car at Málaga Airport
- •Genal Valley roads are narrow and winding: drive with extra time
- •Visit nearby Júzcar, the 'Smurf village', close to Faraján
Sports insurance for CxM Faraján
InsuranceA qualifying race in the Málaga Provincial Council's mountain race circuit. Check insurance requirements with the organizers if you're not federated.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •FADMES federated runners have sports coverage included
- •If not federated, get a day insurance policy for mountain races
Sun protection for CxM Faraján
Sun ProtectionEven as a December race, the open, high sections of Sierra Bermeja keep noticeable sun exposure.
ISDIN
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
Ultralight water-phase facial sunscreen with SPF 50+. Fluid texture that absorbs instantly with no greasy residue, ideal for applying during a race. Water and sweat resistant.
Sun Bum
Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30
Lip balm with SPF 30 sun protection in stick format. Moisturises and protects lips from sunburn, a spot many runners forget. Coconut flavour, paraben-free.
Cantabria Labs
Heliocare 360º Sport Transparent Stick SPF 50+
Transparent SPF 50+ sun stick, 25 g, with 360º protection (UVA, UVB, visible light and infrared). Goes on dry in seconds over face, ears, neck and bald scalp with no sticky hands and no white cast: the format built for reapplying at an aid station. High water and sweat resistance, from a Spanish pharmacy brand.
Columbia
Columbia Schooner Bank II Cachalot
Legionnaire-style cap with neck flap, ideal for long-duration races with intense sun exposure. Covers the neck and ears, two of the areas most prone to sunburn in the mountains.
Julbo
Julbo Aero
Sports sunglasses with a Reactiv photochromic lens that automatically adapts to changing light, an ultralight panoramic frame and the Air Link temple system for a secure, pressure-free fit. Built for high-mountain trail running, where light shifts constantly between forest, rock and open summits.
Buff
Buff Venture Gorra 5 Panel
Lightweight 5-panel cap with UPF 50+ protection, breathable fabric and comfortable fit. Ideal for summer trail running races where weight and ventilation are a priority.
d'Alba
d'Alba Air Fit Fresh Stick SPF 50+ PA++++
Facial SPF 50+ PA++++ sun stick, 19 g, Korean skincare, vegan and fragrance-free. Dry, powdery finish, not sticky, doesn't sting the eyes when you sweat: comfortable for daily training and shorter races. The lightest and cheapest option in the comparison.
Piz Buin
Piz Buin Mountain SPF 50+
Mountain sunscreen with SPF 50+ formulated for extreme altitude conditions. Extra protection against intensified UV radiation and cold wind. Rich texture that protects skin from dehydration.
Tips
- •SPF50 protection on the ridge sections, even in winter
- •Lip balm for the wind and cold at the Caseta del Jardón
Body care for CxM Faraján
Body CareThe elevation gain and technical sections through chestnut groves take a toll on feet and legs. Prepare your post-race recovery.
Julbo
Julbo Aerospeed
Sport sunglasses with Reactiv photochromic lenses that automatically adapt to light conditions (category 1 to 3). Designed for trail running with non-slip temples and integrated ventilation.
Buff
Buff CoolNet UV+
Multifunctional tubular with UPF 50+ UV protection and cooling technology. Can be worn as neck gaiter, headband, balaclava or wristband. CoolNet fabric reflects UV rays and cools the skin by evaporation.
OOFOS
OOFOS OOriginal Sport
Unisex recovery sandal with patented OOfoam technology, which absorbs 37% more impact than conventional EVA foam and reduces stress on feet, ankles and back after exertion. Closed thong-style toe post with built-in arch support in the footbed. Machine washable.
Therabody
Theragun Mini (2.ª generación)
Compact massage gun with QuietForce motor and 3 speeds (1750-2400 percussions/min). Weighs just 500g and fits in your race vest or bag. Ideal for self-massage of quads, calves and glutes after a trail.
Compex
Compex Ayre Recovery Boots
Pneumatic pressotherapy boots with 4 sequential air chambers. Dynamic compression that improves venous return and speeds up toxin elimination after mountain races. 3 pressure levels and 20-30 minute sessions. Built-in rechargeable battery.
Salomon
Salomon Mangas Running
Lightweight, breathable and absorbent running sleeves from Salomon, with a comfortable adaptable fit for variable mountain temperature conditions.
Salomon
Salomon Polaina Cuello Merino
Salomon merino wool neck gaiter. Natural warmth, breathable and odour-resistant even after several uses without washing, key for multi-day ultras. Versatile use in the mountains and premium trail running.
Bob and Brad
Bob and Brad Q2 Mini
Mini massage gun designed by two physiotherapists: 430 g, brushless motor with 15 kg stall force and operation under 45 dB. Charges over USB-C from any charger and ships with a case. The value pick for packing recovery into your bag or car boot.
Tips
- •Sunglasses for the low December light in open sections
- •Buff or neck gaiter for the coldest morning hours
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is CxM Faraján 2026?
- The XIII CxM Faraján takes place on Sunday, December 6, 2026, in Faraján, in the Serranía de Ronda area of Málaga.
- What distances does CxM Faraján offer?
- Two mountain distances: the 23K Long Race with 1,323m D+, passing the Caseta del Jardón and the Chorreras del Balastar, and the 11K Short Race with 650m D+.
- How many entry spots are available?
- Registration is capped at 450 participants. The online entry period closes on November 15, 2026 at 23:55, through DorsalChip.
- How do you get to Faraján?
- Faraján sits in the Genal Valley, about 90 minutes from Málaga Airport (AGP) via the A-7 and mountain roads through the Serranía de Ronda. Driving is the most practical option.
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