Ronda, a ‘pueblo magico’ in Spain’s Andalucia region, astonishes every visitor with its incredible landscapes, rich history, and unique charm. From its expansive views, tall bridges, and deep gorge, here are all the reasons why Ronda should be part of your next trip to Spain.
- Breathtaking Scenery
Perched on a dramatic cliffside, Ronda offers some of the most spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The town is divided by the deep El Tajo gorge, which the Guadalevín River flows through. The best views, perfect for photography, are from one of the iconic bridges above the gorge.
- Rich History
Ronda is one of Spain’s oldest towns, with a history that dates back to the Neolithic period. Its rich past is shown in the well-preserved architecture dotted across the town, from the ancient city walls and Arab baths to the Mondragón Palace. This blend of Moorish, Christian, and Renaissance styles offers a fascinating glimpse into Ronda’s culturally diverse past.
- Puente Nuevo (New Bridge)
Puente Nuevo is the number one thing to do in Ronda Spain and a marvel of 18th-century engineering. This large stone bridge, the ‘newest’ of the three, connects the old Moorish town with the newer part of Ronda and stands 120 meters above the gorge.
Walking across the bridge and exploring the viewpoints on either side is an unforgettable experience, allowing you to admire the countryside vistas, the construction itself, and the waterfall below.
- Plaza de Toros, Ronda
Ronda is also home to one of the oldest and most prestigious bullrings in all of Spain, the Plaza de Toros. Built in 1785, this historic arena is a symbol of Andalusia’s bullfighting tradition, offering a small glimpse into what this sport meant for the town back in the day. Visitors can tour the bullring, explore the museum, and learn about its cultural significance.
Note: Even though this sport was important historically, we recommend skipping on watching a bullfight (this is a bad example of wildlife tourism). Visit the building and browse the museum instead.
- Charming Old Town
Ronda’s old town, La Ciudad, is a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses, cute little shops, and good cafes. This is undoubtedly the most beautiful part of town and offers some impressive views over the surrounding landscape. Enter through one of the old stone gates and soak up the relaxed atmosphere while discovering hidden plazas, beautiful churches, and traditional Andalusian architecture.
- Wine and Cuisine
As part of the burgeoning wine region of the Serranía de Ronda, the town offers plenty of tours and tastings at local wineries. Sample some of the region’s best wines and pair them with the delicious Andalusian cuisine. Traditional dishes like rabo de toro (oxtail stew) and tapas are a must-try!
- Ronda’s Natural Parks
The area surrounding Ronda is rich in natural beauty, with several natural parks only a stone’s throw away. These areas are the best locations to do some outdoor activities. Nevertheless, right downtown, you’ll also find areas perfect for a stroll, like the beautiful Jardines de Cuenca (Cuenca Gardens). Full of colorful rose gardens, this is a great spot to take in the fantastic views of all three bridges and the valley below.
