Ronda in the Province of Andalucia

Ronda is a Spanish town around 100km from the city of Malaga in Andalucia with a population of just over 35,000 inhabitants. The Ronda area is very mountainous and the town clings to the cliff faces of the Rio Guadalevin gorge, which slices the town in two.

It is often said that this town (and others in the area such as Arcos de la Frontera or Antequera) with its quiet streets and white painted houses are the ‘real’ southern Spain, a whole world away from the madness of the Costas.

Rondas’ first settlers were the Celts but in later years it was the Romans and then the Moors that left their mark most predominantly on the towns architecture. The impressive three bridges spanning the gorge are a tribute to their builders both in their design and build quality. The Puente Romano (“Roman Bridge”), the Puente Viejo (“Old bridge”) and the Puente Nuevo (“New bridge” – built in 1793!!) rank among the towns most impressive features.

Bullfighting in the Plaza de Toros – the oldest and most beautiful bullfighting ring that is still in use in Spain – is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of Ronda and the site, built in 1784, is one of the most important within the town. You can visit the museum, which is dedicated to the whole toro culture within the grounds of the bullring or just stroll the streets of this friendly and very clean town.

The parador holds a very privileged position within the town, located right next to the bullring and overlooking the Rio Guadalevin gorge. If you want a room here, it is advisable to book in advance, as it is very popular with tourists from both Spain and overseas.

The best time of day to experience the beauty which Ernest Hemmingway and Orson Wells (residents of the town for many years) wrote about, and which helped to promote its popularity, is in the early evenings when the day trippers have gone and peace and serenity returns to the town allowing for uninterrupted views of the sunset over whitewashed houses.

  Property for sale in Andalucia        Property for rent in Andalucia