Ronda
approx. 1 h 30 min
Perched on cliffs above a deep gorge, Ronda is one of the most spectacular towns in Spain – and one of the most rewarding day trips from the Costa del Sol.
Why visit Ronda?
Ronda sits high in the Serranía de Ronda mountains, split in two by El Tajo, a gorge more than 100 metres deep. The old Moorish town and the newer town are connected by dramatic bridges, with whitewashed houses built right on the edge of the cliffs. The drive up through the mountains is beautiful, and the town itself is full of history, viewpoints and good restaurants.
Top sights in Ronda
Puente Nuevo. Ronda's iconic "New Bridge", completed in the late 18th century, spans the gorge and is one of the most photographed sights in Spain. Walk across it, and then take the paths down into the gorge for the classic view from below.
El Tajo gorge and viewpoints. The Alameda del Tajo park and the cliff-top walkways offer breathtaking views over the valley. The Mirador de Aldehuela and the paths down towards the old Arab gate give amazing views of the bridge.
The bullring (Plaza de Toros). Ronda's bullring, opened in 1785, is one of the oldest in Spain and a birthplace of modern bullfighting. You can visit the arena and its museum.
The old town (La Ciudad). Across the bridge, the historic quarter has narrow streets, palaces and churches, including the Santa María la Mayor church, built on the site of a former mosque.
The Arab Baths. Some of the best-preserved Moorish baths in Spain, located down by the river.
Casa del Rey Moro. A historic house with gardens and a remarkable underground staircase – "La Mina" – cut into the rock down to the river.
Food and drink
Ronda has excellent restaurants serving mountain cuisine – try oxtail stew (rabo de toro), game dishes and local cheeses. The Serranía de Ronda is also a growing wine region, with several wineries open for visits and tastings.
Nearby
The area around Ronda is full of white villages. Setenil de las Bodegas, where houses are built into the rock overhangs, is a short drive away and makes a great combination with Ronda.
Getting to Ronda from Riviera del Sol
The drive takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. The most common route goes via San Pedro de Alcántara and up a winding mountain road with stunning views. There are public car parks in the new part of town, within walking distance of the bridge.
Good to know
Wear good shoes if you want to walk down to the viewpoints below the bridge – the paths are steep.
Ronda is cooler than the coast, especially in winter – bring an extra layer.
Arrive early to enjoy the town before the tour buses.
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