Ronda is the largest and one of the prettiest of the white villages that dot the countryside in the southern region of Andalucía. It is perched on the edge of a 500 ft. gorge, and its location provides visitors with dramatic and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. It is well worth a visit as a day trip from Seville, Málaga, or elsewhere on the Costa del Sol, or as an overnight stay.
One of Ronda’s most emblematic images is the arched bridge that straddles the 120 meter deep gorge and links the two sections of town. The Puente Nuevo (“new bridge”) was completed in 1793 and replaced the prior bridge that collapsed in 1741. Ronda is famous for being the birthplace of modern bullfighting. The historic 17th C. Plaza de Toros bullring is one of the oldest and most beautiful in Spain. It is open to the public on off days, and includes a museum, stables, and other behind-the-scenes areas that can be visited.
Other places of interest to visit in Ronda include:
- Santa María la Mayor (Renaissance church)
- Don Bosco House (with the best views of the mountain range “Serranía de Ronda” and from where you can take the best picture of the New Bridge)
- Mondragón Palace, which houses the Museum of Ronda
- Baños Arabes (Arab Baths) in the Jewish Quarter dating from the 13th – 14th C.
Book a private tour! You may want to consider booking a private tour with an English-speaking guide. Your personal guide can provide you with information on the city and its historic sites. For more information on our Ronda tours, click here.
If you decide to spend the night you can stay at the Parador de Ronda. The Parador sits atop the gorge in the historical center of town. It is located on the site of the former town hall, and offers guests panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding mountains. For more information and reservations, click here.
Photo credit: TheBoxagon
For assistance with your travel plans, including hotel and private tour reservations, click here.