Ronda Guide
Our Guide To Ronda
In the heart of Andalucia, Ronda is testament to centuries of history and culture. Founded by the Celts in the 6th century BC, Ronda’s strategic location atop towering cliffs made it a coveted stronghold for various civilizations, including the Romans and Moors. Its tumultuous past is palpable in the maze-like streets of the old town, where each cobblestone whispers tales of conquest and resilience.
Being a mountain town, Ronda has both cold and very hot temperatures. However, whatever time of year you visit, you’ll be impressed by the landscape, architecture, gastronomy and history of this beautiful white town.
Accommodation
A Few of Our Favourite Places to Stay in Ronda
Hotel Catalonia Ronda
Located opposite the emblematic bullring of the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda and on the most commercial pedestrian street. The hotel has 80 elegant and comfortable rooms equipped with the maximum comfort and many with views over the bullring.
The rooftop terrace offers fantastic views, an infinity pool, whirlpool and chill-out zone.
Parador de Ronda
Perched on the edge of the gorge, this luxury hotel offers unparalleled views and luxurious amenities.
Hotel Montelirio
A boutique hotel situated in a restored 17th-century mansion, offering a blend of history and modern comfort.
Casa Rural Los Pinos
For a tranquil countryside retreat, consider staying in a charming rural guesthouse surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.
Hotel La Fuente De La Higuera
Set in beautiful gardens outside the town of Ronda, the renovated millhouse is a tranquil escape in the countryside. Dine on the terrace amidst orange and lemon trees, magnolia and jasmine.
Restaurants
A Few of the Best Places to Eat in Ronda
La Niña Adela
Taking the knowledge of their predecessors and adding a pinch of innovation and dash of new techniques, la Niña Adela provides high quality Spanish cuisine.
Taberna Quinto Tramo
For a high-energy experience and great food, this Taberna is the place to go. It is always busy and the delicious food leaves you in no doubt as to why it won the Gold Plate award in 2023.
Restaurante Tragata
Sample innovative Andalusian cuisine paired with panoramic views of the gorge at this upscale restaurant.
Tapas Bars
Our Favourite Tapas Bars in Ronda
Tropicana
Award winning restaurant for Best Tapas in Ronda and Gold Plate Tourism Award, this family-run eaterie is among the best in Ronda, serving local dishes with local wine.
Nightlife
Ronda Nightlife and Entertainment
Entertainment
Discover the vibrant nightlife scene with live music venues, cocktail bars, and traditional taverns offering a taste of local life.
Things To Do
Activities in and around Ronda
Outdoor Adventures
Explore the rugged beauty of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park through hiking, mountain biking, or canyoning expeditions.
Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in Andalusian culture with flamenco shows, cooking classes, or guided tours of Ronda’s historic sites.
TOMA & COE offer tours around Ronda and to one of its boutique wineries.
Puente Nuevo
Ronda’s emblematic bridge, spanning the breathtaking El Tajo gorge, is a masterpiece of 18th-century engineering and offers unparalleled panoramic views.
The bridge effectively divides Ronda into two distinct sections: the bustling new town, known as Mercadillo or ‘Little Market’, and the historic old town, La Ciudad.
There is a chamber above the central arch that was used for a variety of purposes, including as a prison. During the 1936–1939 civil war both sides allegedly used the prison as a torture chamber for captured opponents, killing some by throwing them from the windows to the rocks at the bottom of the El Tajo gorge. The chamber is entered through a square building that was once the guardhouse. It now contains an exhibition describing the bridge’s history and construction.
La Ciudad - The Old Town
The historic heart of Ronda, La Ciudad, is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and charming squares, of which Plaza Duquesa de Parcent is one of the most beautiful. Highlights include the Moorish Baths (Baños Árabes) with their intricate Islamic architecture, and the imposing town gates, such as the Puerta de Almocábar and the Puerta de Carlos V.
Plaza del Socorro
A bustling square in the centre of town, adorned with cafes, restaurants, and the iconic Church of Our Lady of Socorro (which is rather bland inside). At the top of the plaza, you’ll see a statue of Hercules with two pillars and lions. The statue was moved from the fountain closer to the old casino and symbolises the Andalucian nationalism which was first shown here in 1918
Blas Infante Monument
Pay homage to the father of Andalucian nationalism at the monument dedicated to Blas Infante, located near the Puente Nuevo on the Paseo de Blas Infante which leads to one of the great miradors (viewpoints) in Ronda.
Ronda Bullring (Plaza de Toros)
One of the oldest and most picturesque bullfighting arenas in Spain, offering guided tours to delve into the city’s bullfighting heritage.
The Real Maestranza de Caballería is the oldest and most noble order of horsemanship in Spain since 1485. It is part of the Bullring tour with stables and dressage arena.
The bullring also houses a museum dedicated to the spectacle. The Museo Taurino holds two centuries of famous bullfighting regalia and important outfits. The collection also includes an extensive array of weapons used by the Real Maestranza in the Spanish war.
Museo de Ronda
Delve into Ronda’s rich past at the town’s museum, housed in the Palacio de Mondragón, showcasing archaeological finds and artefacts from various periods of Ronda’s history. The palace was built in 1314, and was the Royal residence of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand when they visited the town.
La Casa del Rey Moro
This palace dates back to the 14th century when it was constructed by the Moors, showcasing their innovative water pumping system. The elaborate water system extends through the gorge to the Guadalevin River.
For an immersive experience, visitors can descend a staircase carved into the rock, consisting of 236 steps descending 60 meters to La Mina offering stunning panoramic views. You need to be fit, as the climb back up is not easy.
Additionally, explore the gardens designed by renowned French architect Jean-Claude Forestier, who also crafted the Maria Luisa Park in Seville.
Practical Information
Where is Ronda?
Ronda is in a mountainous area about 750 m (2,460 ft) above sea level in the Andalucian province of Malaga.
Getting There
The easiest way to get to Ronda is by car, which takes around 1 ½ hours, though there are public transport options available. There are two routes, one of which is less windy and steep.
From Malaga, there are direct bus and trains, with prices starting around €15. The trips take 2 hours each way. There are also direct buses from Marbella.
If you want to travel through some breathtaking scenery by train, and are coming from the west, then Mr Henderson’s Railway from Algeciras is a delightful way to get there.
There is a greater choice of flights into Malaga airport, which also means you can get a hire car, or take public transport to Ronda.
When to Go & Climate
Ronda enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when temperatures are pleasant for exploring the town and engaging in outdoor activities.
Ronda Tourist Information
RONDA MUNICIPAL TOURIST OFFICE
Paseo de Blas Infante, s/n, 29400
Tel: 952 187 119
Safety Tips
In case of emergencies, dial 112 for assistance.
Exercise caution when walking along the cliffs and bridges, especially in wet or windy conditions.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during outdoor activities, especially in the summer months.
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