Ronda is a quaint little cliffside town situated in the south of Spain that is sure to charm you with its epic views and excellent cuisine. For travelers in the province of Malaga looking for more to do, Ronda is the perfect excursion for either a day trip or a weekend getaway. Split into two by the Guadalevín River, the enchanting town is poised just 100 meters above El Tajo Gorge and overlooks the jaw-dropping landscape as far as the eye can see.
If you want to know the best things to see and do in Ronda, Malaga, keep reading as we’ll also be diving into the top sites in the area as well as the ideal places to eat and stay. Historic monuments and cultural centers abound throughout the town and there are plenty of restaurants offering delicious fare, from upscale bistros to traditional taverns.
Influenced by a myriad of elements from its storied past, such as Moorish palaces and medieval churches, Ronda seamlessly blends the old with the new to grant a high-class experience to all travelers. Ready to roam on your next adventure? Let’s ramble around Ronda!
Best Things to Do in Ronda
1. Walk across Puente Nuevo
2. Wander around Plaza de Toros
3. Pass through Puerta de Almocabar
4. Mosey around Mondragon Palace
5. Say a prayer at St Mary Major Church
6. Retrace a king’s steps at Casa del Rey Moro
7. Visit the Arabic baths
8. Taste some tapas at Plaza del Socorro
9. Promenade through Alameda del Tajo Park
10. Go on a wine tour
Best Places to Eat
Best Places to Stay
Final Thoughts
Best Things to Do in Ronda
With a population of around 34 thousand inhabitants, Ronda is full of cultural landmarks given the region’s far-reaching history. Nestled in the southern community of Andalucia, Ronda was under Muslim rule for centuries, a fact that shows in the architectural influences of its buildings. The historic center is a fusion of ancient Moorish elements and traditional Spanish components, from its sweeping public squares to its canyon-spanning bridges. Even if you only have a day to enjoy Ronda, there are plenty of sights in the cliffside town to keep you living on the edge. Canyon dig it?
1. Walk across Puente Nuevo
Undoubtedly Ronda’s most emblematic fixture, Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) is best admired from afar where you can really appreciate its three semicircular arches. Constructed in 1793, Puente Nuevo extends to a height of about 100 meters, connecting the historic Moorish quarter of La Ciudad (The Town) with the more-modern El Mercadillo (The Market). The New Bridge was erected to replace a previous bridge that collapsed in 1735, killing 50 people, and, at the time of its inauguration, the structure was the tallest in the world. After you walk across Puente Nuevo, feel free to learn more about the extensive construction project at its Visitor’s Centre, el Centro de Interpretación del Puente Nuevo.
Nevertheless, Puente Nuevo is far from the only bridge in Ronda that crosses El Tajo Gorge as the Andalucian town also bares two other medieval bridges. The first is Puente Romano (Roman Bridge), which was built between the 9th and 15th century, at the peak of Spain’s Moorish era and the other is Puente Viejo (Old Bridge), erected in 1616. While the latter two pale in comparison to the expansive splendor of Puente Nuevo, they’re also both worth walking over for the view alone.
2. Wander around Plaza de Toros de Ronda
The tradition of bullfighting is as quintessential to Spain as flamenco music and there’s no better place to learn about the custom than Ronda, the birthplace of modern bullfighting. Although the blood sport has (thankfully) declined in popularity throughout the nation, Plaza de Toros de Ronda (Bulls’ Square) should be on any traveler’s itinerary. At the square’s heart lies an enormous, bullfighting ring that opened its doors in 1785, making it one of the oldest such institutions in the world. The breathtaking sandstone arena was designed by Spanish architect Martin de Aldehuela (the same genius behind Puente Nuevo) in a neoclassical style, comprising two floors capped by Arabic tiles and ringed by 136 columns that form 68 arches.
Spanning 66-meters in diameter, the bullfighting ring is often regarded as the largest on the globe and its inauguration was followed by a bullfight by Pedro Romero, the country’s most famous matador. The Romero family would go on to pioneer the modern style of bullfighting within Spain, inspiring other notable figures like the Ordóñez family who would eventually become muses for creative minds including director George Orson Welles and writer Ernest Hemingway. Discover all the history of the arena when you visit its museum, which also features a royal saddlery and equestrian gallery which honors one of the oldest riding schools in the nation. ¡Ole!
3. Pass through Puerta de Almocábar
One of Ronda’s most historic monuments is the 13th-century Puerta de Almocábar (Almocabar Gate), a relic from Spain’s long Moorish past. The gateway derives its name from the Arabic word ‘‘al-maqabir’’ since it was constructed near an old Muslim cemetery outside the city as per local customs and acted as one of the main entrances into Moorish Ronda. Puerta de Almocábar is made up of 3 consecutive archways, with the exterior arches forming the shape of a horseshoe while the central arch is more rounded, and flanked by two semicircular towers. These towers acted as guideposts, connecting to high, reinforced walls that surrounded the ancient city to protect it from Christian enemies.
Despite the incredible feat of masonry, Ronda would inevitably fall into the hands of the Catholic Kings by 1485. The gate and the walls would then be modified and restored over the next centuries, particularly during the reign of King Carlos V (the Holy Roman Emperor), including the addition of a second smaller Renaissance opening. For over 700 years, the Moorish defenses have managed to stand the test of time over the past even if their builders couldn’t so pay them a visit when you’re in the south of the historic center. Can you spot the Emperor’s coat of arms?
4. Mosey around Mondragon Palace
One of the most visited landmarks in Ronda, Mondragon Palace should be high up on your itinerary since it’s also home to the Municipal Archeological Museum. The early-14th-century palace was also once home to a Moorish king, Abomelic I, who would eventually be defeated by the Castillian king, Alfonso XI. His death would transfer the property to the Nasrid Kingdom in Granada and, for a time, it was used as the residence for the regional governors until the Spanish monarchy expelled them during the Reconquista.
Possession of the palace would continue to switch hands several times as the Spanish crown gifted the estate to various political allies, each leaving their mark over time (note the 16th-century coat of arms above the main entrance courtesy of Captain Don Melchor). Wander the stunning Moorish courtyards before making your way out to the gardens which display an unbeatable view of the Sierra de Grazalema Mountains. Then, check out the museum to learn all about the fascinating history of one of Spain’s oldest cities.
Can’t get enough classical architecture? Casa Museo Don Bosco might also pique your interest.
5. Say a prayer at St Mary Major Church
According to legend, the history of St Mary Major Church reaches back even further than the medieval era it was the site of an ancient Roman temple. However, after the Moorish invasion of the Iberian Peninsula, a mosque was built right where the prominent church would eventually stand. After the end of the Reconquista, the Islamic place of worship was replaced in the 15th century, with the erection of the new Catholic church finally completed in the 17th century.
Initially favoring a Gothic architectural style, St Mary Major Church features three naves that were heavily damaged in an earthquake in 1580. Many of the original elements can still be seen despite modern renovations, which have lent to a mix of styles, including the embedded columns and archways. During the Renaissance era, a two-story choir was added, along with an astounding Baroque altarpiece known as Virgen del Mayor Dolor (Our Lady of Sorrows) which has been attributed by some to ‘‘La Roldana’’ (one of Sapin’s first female sculptors to gain fame). The church is located in Plaza Duquesa de Parcent and whether you prefer Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, or Baroque designs, you should pass up on visiting this national monument.
6. Retrace a king’s steps at Casa del Rey Moro
It would be impossible to ignore the impact the Moors had during their near-800-year reign of the Iberian Peninsula and no landmark showcases this better in Ronda than Casa del Re Moro (House of the Moorish King). The ethereal Neo-Mudèjar palace is certainly fit for a king and all his royal court, with a massive estate that also encompasses a once-abandoned mine and lavish gardens.
Casa del Rey Moro is situated just across from Puerta de Almocábar on Cuesta de Santo Domingo, a site that was long-sought by the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada after for its impregnable position above El Tajo Gorge. The 14th-century mine was actually built to extract the water via a waterwheel in times of siege, only for the Moors to surrender the city once the Castillian army disabled the system. Thankfully, these days the water mine is open to explore along with the garden so if you’re seeking a magical experience in Ronda that’s also rich in history, this 18th-century gem should definitely be on your radar. The Room of Secrets is particularly of note for its mindboggling acoustics but don’t be disappointed to find out that a Moorish king never lived on the grounds despite the name.
7. Visit the Arabic Baths
There were many archaeological innovations during the reign of the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada and among those include the construction of hammams (Arabic bathhouses). Compared to their European counterparts, the Moors bathed habitually, often gathering in these facilities to socialize and relax, and Ronda was no exception. The town’s bathhouses were constructed as early as the 13th century and, thanks to the Moors’ sophisticated engineering, fresh water was extracted via a waterwheel right from the nearby Arroyo de las Culebras (Stream of Snakes).
What’s more, the water could be channeled into separate chambers via aqueducts to generate different temperatures such as hot, cold, and steam bathing areas. Using a revolutionary water system, raging fires from a furnace room generated the heat to warm the water, with steam funneled under the terracotta floors to emit the vapor and then released through chimneys before reaching the cold rooms.
Unfortunately, the subterranean baños arabes (Arabic baths) were lost to time after the Reconquista and subsequent floods buried them under layers of mud for the next several centuries. This occurrence might have saved the baths in the end, however, since the area remained undisturbed until its rediscovery and eventual excavation. Nowadays, they stand as the best-preserved bathhouses in all of the Iberian peninsula so make sure to stop by Ronda’s most underrated gem. Marvel at the renovated interior as you wander under the horseshoe archways and star-shaped skylights chiseled into the vaulted ceilings. Craving try to the hammam experience at least once? Patronize Aguas de Ronda Spa for a day of luxury in a modern-day Arabic bathhouse.
8. Taste some tapas at Plaza del Socorro
If there’s anything that Andalucia is famous for its tapas, the culinary custom of serving drinks accompanied by complimentary appetizers. The region puts forth some of the best cuisines in the nation and arguably the best place in Ronda to try these bite-sized portions is close to Plaza del Socorro, just across from Nuestra Señora del Socorro Church. The lively public square is the main local hub thanks to its copious restaurants, each with a terrace so you can enjoy the perpetual Malagan sunshine.
Take in the fascinating fountain in the square’s center before picking your first snack stop. Some of the most mouthwatering tapas that you must try are gambas pil pil (the ‘‘national’’ dish of prawns cooked in a spicy oil sauce), boquerones (marinated or fried anchovies), and porra antequerana (cold tomato soup). No matter what you order you can’t go wrong so why not order them all?
9. Promenade through Alameda del Tajo Park
Nestled next to Ronda’s bullring, this picturesque park boasts beautiful, tree-lined promenades as well as fragrant botanical gardens, ideal for an afternoon stroll. Opened to the public in the early 19th century, Alameda del Tajo Park (once named Alameda de San Carlos) comprises five walking paths which lead to balconies that proffer a breathtaking view of the Tajo Gorge as well as the landscape of the Serrania de Ronda. See if you can find ‘‘el Balcón de Coño’’ (the ‘shit’ balcony), affectionately named by locals for the reaction its vibrant vantage point evokes in first-time visitors.
Stare into the abyss as long as you dare, then stroll around the botanical gardens which are home to centuries-old trees such as a Himalayan cedar, a three-horn acacia, and a massive stone pine tree. There are also various statues of prestigious historical figures like Lady Goyesca, a representation of a Rondan woman dressed in a traditional costume, and Pedro Romero, Spain’s most famous bullfighter. Why not pick your favorite as you stroll along the park, then make your way over to the nearby Blas Infante gardens for even more splendor?
10. Go on a wine tour
Apart from its decadent regional cuisine, Ronda is also known for its wine production owing to the elevated topography of the Serranai de Ronda. Thus, there are plenty of wineries scattered across the immediate area, with some specializing in both red and white wines. The most delectable reds include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, which pair best with meats and cheeses. Typical white varieties are Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, ideal for seafood and fish dishes.
Many bodegas in Ronda extend tours to visitors of their wine cellars along with wine tastings from their vineyards. If you’re looking to taste some of the richest local harvests, some wine cellars to try are Milamores, Bodega Fernández Bolet, Bodega Gonzalo Beltán, and Finca Descalzos Viejos. For instance, the Samsara Wine Experience is highly coveted for its extraordinary estate which overlooks Puente Nuevo and its exquisite selection of French grapevines. You might just get tipsier faster than you can say, ‘‘¡Salud!’’.
Best Places to Eat in Ronda
While Ronda might have gained international acclaim for its historic landmarks and savory wines, locally it is also renowned for its cuisine, which ranges from affordable to upmarket. Ravenous travelers would do well to keep in mind that Ronda is a frequent tourist destination, even among Spaniards, which tends to reflect in the steeper price tag at most places. Still, the splurge is most certainly worth it as you’re sure not to be disappointed.
Quaintest Tapas Bar: Tapas Bar La Niña Adela
A tapas bar that’s as elegant as its food is delightful, there’s nothing about this popular bistro that will leave you wanting.
Address: Avenida Ricardo Navarrete, 9
Hippest Tapas Bar: Bar Quinto Tramo
This hip tapas bar focuses on revolutionizing traditional Andalucian dishes by infusing them with contemporary elements, flaunting an extensive menu list that’ll leave you hungry for more.
Address: Carrera Espinel, 75
Best Traditional tavern: Mesón Carmen la de Ronda
A homey establishment, this restaurant is beloved for its traditional regional dishes and terrace with scenic views of the adjacent public square.
Address: Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, 10
Most Authentic High-End Cuisine: Restaurant Pedro Romero Ronda
This Spanish tavern specializes in meat dishes paired together with local wines in an elegant space decorated with vintage bullfighting memorabilia.
Address: Calle Virgen de la Paza, 18
Chicest Bistro: Restaurante Tropicana
Get lost in the trendy decor as you try any of their fine wine selection or creative cocktails before sampling their tasty grilled fare.
Address: Calle Virgen de los Dolores, 11
Best Places to Stay in Ronda
To truly get to know all of Ronda’s hidden gems, travelers would do their best to stay in town for at least a couple of days. Similarly to the gastronomic scene, accommodation can be a bit pricy due to the popularity of the town with foreign and domestic travelers alike. However, most upmarket hotels provide their guests with grandiose suites and up-to-date facilities, making sure you get your money’s worth. Why not treat yourself to the lap of luxury at least for a night or two?
Grandest Hotel: Hotel Catalonia Ronda
This swanky hotel has everything you could need; an unbeatable rooftop with an infinity pool and Jacuzzi, an on-site restaurant, a snack bar, and a spa. What more could you want?
Address: Calle Viregen de la Paz, 16
Most Affordable Accommodation: Hotel Andalucia
For budget-conscious travelers, this pristine hotel is the perfect choice, given its reasonable prices, spacious rooms, and walking distance to most top attractions. How do you like that bang for your buck?
Address: Avenida Martínez Astein, 19
Most Romantic Lodging: Hotel Alavera de los Baños Ronda
Just opposite the famed Arabic Baths, prepare to be transported back in time when you stay in this majestic Moorish hotel, complete with an outdoor swimming pool, library, and lounge. If you’re planning a romantic getaway, there’s no cozier place to be!
Address: Calle Molina de Alarcón, S/N
Best Boutique Hotel: Hotel El Tajo & Spa
If you’re craving a taste of the luxurious life without the steep price tag, this fairly-priced hotel is a splendid combination of style and substance, featuring an on-site restaurant, a gym, and a thermal spa. Be prepared for jets to bubble all your cares away!
Address: Calle Cruz Verde, 7
Best Antique Villa: Hotel Montelirio
Love antique furniture and epic views? This former 17th-century palace has both, situated right on the edge of El Tajo Gorge, and also houses an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and a cliffside bar; the ideal combo for the best Ronda holiday.
Address: Calle Tenorio, 8
Final Thoughts
As one of Spain’s oldest cities, Ronda has had a colorful past full of myths and legends which still hold much mystery to this day. The enchanting town is sure to delight travelers into history and relaxation, as it’s easy to enjoy the laidback atmosphere pervading every neighborhood. While the biggest draw is undoubtedly its cliffside location along El Tajo Gorge, Ronda has plenty of other prestigious relics such as the Arabic baths and several former palaces.
Gorge yourself on some tapas at one of the fine eateries abutting El Tajo Gorge or stay in any of its luxury hotels to pamper yourself for a few days in between wine tours. If you have more time to spare in the area, only about 20 kilometers away are the Ruins of Acinipo, a Roman city that thrived more than 2,000 years ago.
For thrill-seekers, you can also hike along the canyon to get even more gorges views of the surrounding landscape up close and personal. Hope you enjoyed these cliff notes, write me when you get there!
May you get lost in the wonder,
M