etraveladmin Welcome to Ronda, a lovely town in Spain’s Andalusia region with impressive historical ruins and breathtaking views. Ronda is a scenic treasure located high on a rock plateau and carved down the middle by the dramatic El Tajo gorge. It’s also one of the ‘white villages of Andalusia’ that you should include on your road trip through the region.
Activities in Ronda
Ronda is one of the most beautiful ‘Pueblos Blancos’ in Andalusia, Spain’s southernmost region. While it is a small town, it is becoming increasingly popular with tourists.
This is due to its breathtaking landscapes, such as the 100-meter gorge and the surrounding countryside. It does, however, have a rich history of Moorish and Christian rule, which leaves much to be discovered.
1. Cross the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge)
The iconic Puente Nuevo is the number one thing to do in Ronda. This 18th-century bridge, the ‘newest’ of the three, hangs high above the Tajo gorge, which is 100 metres deep. The mighty Guadelevn river, which divides the town, also runs through this gorge.
The views are the main reason to visit Puente Nuevo. However, above the bridge’s middle arch, you’ll notice a solid column that was previously used as a prison! These chambers can now be visited for a small exhibition.
The Best Points of View
There are four interesting vantage points from which to view the bridge. To begin, walk down a few stairs and follow a sand path for about 10 minutes for a breathtaking lower-angle view (here is the location). From here, you can also see the lovely waterfall beneath the bridge.
You can also see it from the Jardines de Cuenca or the Mirador de Aldehuela viewing platform.
Finally, you can go to the valley’s bottom, near the waterfall, and look up at the bridge from the pools.
2. Cuenca’s Gardens
The Jardines de Cuenca are located right next to one of the cliff sides, high on the ledges of the Tajo gorge (Cuenca Gardens). The gardens were dedicated to Ronda’s twin city Cuenca because their geographical layouts are similar. Wander through the lovely rose gardens, taking in the stunning views of the three bridges and the valley below.
3. Felipe V Arco
The Arco de Felipe V, a stone arch that is part of the town walls of Ronda, Spain, is located right next to the Jardines de Cuenca. From here, you enter the La Ciudad district, the most beautiful part of town with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The arch was named after Felipe V, Spain’s first Bourbon king. This was due to his role in rebuilding the Spanish economy following the War of Succession in the 18th century.
4. One of the Best Things to Do in Ronda is Visit La Casa del Rey Moro.
A beautiful house overlooking the valley stands on the other cliffside, opposite the Jardines de Cuenca: the House of the Moorish King. Explore the surrounding grounds, which include hanging gardens and a couple of fountains.
Try to spot some of the peacocks that are free to roam! This is a must-see on your Andalusia road trip and one of the best things to do in Ronda, Spain.
Despite its name, this storied palace never housed a Moorish king. In fact, the only genuine relic of the Moorish occupation in the house is a 14th-century underground water mine. You can also go see this!
5. Palace of Mondragón
A Moorish palace and garden are hidden in another building overlooking the valley. According to legend, King Abomelic, son of Morocco’s Sultan Abul Asan, lived in this building. He was also the king responsible for the construction of the underground water mine.
It is now a municipal museum where you can learn about Ronda’s local history, archaeology, and prehistoric discoveries.
6. Parcent Duquesa’s Fountain
Plaza de la Duquesa de Parcent, a square in Ronda, Spain, is an ideal place to sit and relax after a day of sightseeing. The leafy square has a courtyard and a lovely fountain to enjoy while watching the locals go by.
This part of Ronda is in the La Ciudad district of the old town. Many of the major monuments and museums are also located here.
7. Alameda del Tajo & Mirador de Ronda
There are two viewpoints to visit if you want to see the sights of town from above. The first is Mirador de Ronda, which provides spectacular views of the gorge, mountains, and Puente Nuevo.
The second is Alameda, which is located right next to the famous Plaza de Toros. In the summer, many families gather on this lovely tree-lined promenade and garden.
Both viewpoints are perched on the cliffs of the Tajo Gorge, and seeing the town views from here is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Ronda.
