A day in Ronda
Would you like to devote a day to discovering one of the oldest cities in Spain? Then you must get to know Ronda, in the south of Spain, about 100 kilometres from the city of Malaga. Don’t miss a visit to one of the most famous destinations in all of Andalusia, which will charm you with its narrow streets, emblematic bridge, houses on the edge of the canyon, and more. Get one of the most typical postcards of travel around Andalusia.
Starting point: Bullring
You can start your day by going to the Tourist Office in Paseo Blas Infante and if you so wish, purchase a tourist pass that includes entry to various points of interest. Next door is the Bullring, one of the oldest and grandest in Spain, and which aroused the interest of people such as Orson Wells or Ernest Hemingway. Inside it, you can visit the Bullfighting Museum or the collection of antique firearms.
Impressive views at the Puente Nuevo
If there is an emblematic spot in Ronda it’s the 98-metre high Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), which also has a Visitors’ Museum. Have your camera at the ready, because the views of the houses overhanging the Ronda gorge are spectacular. Many people opt for walking up a path to get a wider view of the Puente Nuevo over the Guadalevín River and take the customary photo.
Moorish King’s Palace and Arab Baths
When you’ve finished being impressed by the views, we suggest two more interesting stops. At the Palace you can visit its lovely gardens and a former Arab mine with a stairway cut into the rock, with over 200 steps that descend to the river.
A little further on, you’ll find the Arab Baths. It’s worth noting that they go back to the 13th century and it has been said that they’re the best preserved on the entire Iberian Peninsula.
A stroll through the historic quarter
Ideally, you should return to the old quarter with its narrow cobbled streets decorated with geraniums - a charming place to walk around. If lunchtime has arrived, sample typical dishes such as the Serranía gazpacho, the wild mushrooms or Moorish-origin sweetmeats such as the pestiños.
On your walk, don’t overlook buildings such as the Mondragon Palace or Giant’s House (both of Moorish origin). It’s a also a good idea to stop at the always-bustling Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, which contains the church of Santa María la Mayor and the Town Hall. You can finish your walk at one of the old access points to the city, the Puerta de Almocábar.
Afternoon of shopping and views
Ideally you should set aside some time for shopping and buying some souvenirs from Ronda. Take advantage of its famous handicrafts: workshops of woodwork, ceramics, leather, etc.
You’ll enjoy the sunset at the Alameda del Tajo, next to the Bullring where you began your day. A 19th-century tree-lined boulevard awaits you there, with a vantage point at an impressive height. And if you fancy spending the night there, the Parador Hotel in the same area is highly recommended.
Other activities in Ronda
If you’re looking for a bit more activity, or you’re travelling with the family and want some suggestions that the kids would like, you can take up other options such as visiting Reservatauro (a natural area where fighting bulls and Spanish thoroughbred horses are raised). And for multi-adventure activities, hiking or 4x4 eco-routes, your best bet is to ask for information at the Tourist Office.