Ronda | What to do and see in Ronda

Updated: Feb 19, 2022

In this article, you will find the best places to see and visit in Ronda!

Ronda is one of the most beautiful towns in Andalusia, famous for its phenomenal bridge Puente Nuevo. It’s also home to the Real Maestranza bullring, El Tajo Gorge, ancient Arab Baths, and water mines. Ronda is full of quaint restaurants and bars where you can enjoy local foods and wine tasting from locally grown vineyards. The town itself is relatively small, making walking the only means of transportation necessary, which is perfect since the area is so picturesque. There are also world-renowned hiking trails suitable for all skill levels for those seeking to explore Ronda’s breathtaking countryside.

Everything you need to know about Ronda!

What to see and visit in Ronda
What to do in Ronda
Traditional foods in Ronda
Accommodations in Ronda
A bit of a history of Ronda
Video

What to see and visit in Ronda

Puente Nuevo / El Tajo Gorge

Ronda is one of the few towns naturally split into two halves by the El Tajo Gorge. Serving as a defence against attack, the El Tajo Gorge is the natural creation of erosion along the Guadalevin River. The Puente Nuevo Bridge spans the width of the Gorge and offers spectacular views, making it a popular stop for tourists.

Plaza de Toros Bullring

The Plaza de Toros Bullring is home to the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda, Spain’s oldest and most noble order of horsemanship, which traces its heritage back to 1485. It is the oldest Bullring in Spain constructed entirely of stone and is a popular destination with tickets only costing 8.00 Euros.

Arab Baths

Built at the end of the 13th century, the Arab Baths, located in Ronda, are the best preserved in the region. The Cauldron used to heat the water is still visible and in good condition, surviving the desolation of all Arabic paraphernalia when the Christians invaded in 1485. For those interested in the history of Arab baths Ronda offers an unmatched glimpse into the past. Located in San Miguel, the Arab quarter of the city, entrance into the baths is 3.00 Euros.

Mondragon Palace

The Mondragon Palace was the home of Grenadian governors before the 1485 conquest of Ronda. Surrounded by lush gardens and courtyards with colourful Moorish tiling, it’s a must-see destination on your visit to Ronda.

Palace of the Moorish King and the Water Mine

The Palace of the Moorish King consists of three parts: the Water Mine, a garden, and a neo-Mudejar house. Covering approximately 3,700 square metres and sitting atop the edge of a cliff, stunning views and fascinating history is hidden within its walls.

Arabic Walls and city gates

The Arabic walls around Ronda are a stark reminder of why the town is still around today. The massive stone walls give a peek back in time to why Ronda survived to become a modern-day paradise.

Duquesa de Parcent Square

A beautiful square full of lush foliage and monuments highlighting Ronda’s rich history, the Duquesa de Parcent Square features the Iglesia de Santa Maria belltower, a beacon within the town and an essential stop for Ronda sightseeing.

Cuenca Gardens

The Cuenca Gardens are a must on your Ronda walking tour. Best enjoyed in the cool of the morning or at sunset; you don’t want to miss seeing the beauty the Cuenca Gardens have to offer. There are stunning views of the Gorge and Puente Nuevo Bridge.

And all the viewpoints on your way, that are a lot!

What to do in Ronda

Wine tasting in Ronda

Wine tasting is a popular attraction in Ronda due to the rich vineyards surrounding the area. There are tours available where you can learn the history of how wine has helped shape Ronda into the town it is today. Here are a few of the best tours and tastings in Ronda village.

Hiking In Ronda

One of the best things to do on your trip to Ronda is hiking. There are trails to suit various skill levels, and the views are always spectacular. Listed below are some of the best hiking trails in Ronda.

Molinos del Tajo

The Molinos del Tajo is great for a Malaga to Ronda day trip. Make your way along this 3.8 miles trail, looping around Ronda and offering fantastic mountain and valley views. Those who’ve walked the loop suggest going counterclockwise for the best views and restaurants to stop for a refreshing drink along the way.

Benaojan to Ronda

Beginning in the heart of Benaojan’s National Park, you’ll make your way through the foot of the limestone mountains, making your way through the winding valley towards Rondas looming cliffside location. The hike takes you through the vast countryside full of lush greenery and fascinating plant life.

El Tajo Gorge Loop

This hike takes you along Ronda’s clifftops, the Puente Nueve Bridge, and down into the Tajo Gorge below. You’ll walk along the Guadalevin River, taking in the wildlife and greenery its rich waters bring to life. From there, make your way back up to Ronda’s city walls, admiring the construction that fortified the town centuries ago.

Traditional foods in Ronda

Ronda Spain is known for its simple yet flavorful foods like broad beans with Spanish ham. Due to its warm climate, fresh vegetables are readily available and offer a taste sensation like no other. Locals also enjoy the city’s famous gazpacho, broad beans and haggis, and pumpkin dishes. The area is also home to many variety’s of mushrooms, which are expertly incorporated into mouth-watering dishes full of flavour and local flair.

The top 3 best restaurants in my opinion are:

Also, a special cafe in Ronda I have to highlight - Cafe Panoramico! You will see in my video, you can get an incredible view of the bullring from there and the coffee was really good!

Accommodations in Ronda

The hotels within and around Ronda are known for their unique old-world charm and history. There are many to choose from, and each has a story all its own.

Molino del Arco

The present owners converted this 17th century estate into a hotel, but its charm remains intact. Surrounded by fragrant gardens, the Molino del Arco looks like it came straight out of a fairytale.

Hotel la Fuente de la Higuera

The Hotel la Fuente de la Higuera is a centuries-old building that once housed an olive mill and sits atop the hillside with the views of Ronda valley Spain is known for. Its serene location is the perfect spot to unwind and relax or take a dip in the crystal clear pool.

Hotel Ronda Nuevo

This premier hotel only has three rooms available, each boasting its own theme. The decor is modern and recently updated, making it a fun take on the traditional lodging options within Ronda village.

A bit of a history of Ronda

Ronda is one of the oldest towns in Spain, with cave paintings found dating back to the Neolithic period. The Celts officially settled the area in the 6th Century B.C., and it would continue to grow and evolve through the Moors invasion in 711 A.D. In 1485, Ronda saw a Christian conquest, which would become the country’s official religion. Although much growth and change have occurred in the region, you can see remnants of its Moorish past in the Arab Baths and relics dotted throughout the town. Today, Ronda is a part of the Sierra de las Nieves National Park and has around 35,000 residents. Tourists worldwide visit Ronda to experience the history, culture, and scenic beauty of this ancient town.

For an unforgettable vacation, you must visit Ronda in Andalucia, Spain. Its extensive history, stunning views, quaint restaurants, and welcoming residents make it the perfect destination for those seeking adventure. Stay in one of the historic hotels, hike the lush countryside, meander through the ancient streets, and grab a bite at one of the delicious restaurants. Ronda promises to deliver memories that will last a lifetime.

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