A Weekend Gateway to Ronda.
Only a two hour bus ride from Seville. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the rocky mountains from the El Tajo Valley and learn about its extensive history that dates back to the Neolithic Age.
Puente Nuevo
The main attraction the city has to offer is The Puente Nuevo. Newest and largest of three bridges that span the 120-metre-deep chasm that carries the Guadalevín River and divides the city of Ronda. Completed in 1793 by an architect José Martin de Aldehuela.
The bridge has a chamber above the central arch that was used for a variety of purposes, including 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 guard-house. It is now used as an exhibition place for the history and construction of the bridge.
Hiking
Our top 3 hiking trails in Ronda!
#1 Iglesia del Socorro: This one is the easiest in our opinion. We recommend doing it first as a warm up for the more challenging routes. This trail is 4.3km long and it takes an average of 1 h 18 min to complete. This is a very popular area for walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring, don’t be afraid to say Hola! The tour begins in the car park next to the Church of Nuestra Señora del Socorro, and continues through the Plaza de toros de Ronda, the Paseo Blas Infante, the Paseo de Kazunori Yamauchi, the Puente Nuevo, the Plaza de la Duquesa de Parcent, Laurel Castle and the Carlos V Gate.
#2: This is by far the most historic hike. It give good views of popular sights in Ronda such as Plaza del Ahorro, Mirador del Cristo and the Bullring of Ronda. This route is 4.5km long and takes an average of 1 h 24 min to complete. This route provides different options for activities to be carried out, such as urban walks, running, cycling, etc.
#3 Molinos del Tajo: This is the hardest but most rewarding hike. It’s considered a challenging route, is 6.0km long and takes an average of 2 hrs to complete. This route will take you to Rondas famous 98 meter high bridge called “Puente Nuevo”. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime of the year.
If you liked this post reas this one about a weekend trip to Granada.
Food
If you’re looking for some delicious food while you’re there. Definitely try out some of the tapas and local bars close to Puente Nuevo.
El Lechuguita — Which has a great selection of traditional Spanish food.
Pizzeria Trattoria Nonno Peppe — An Italian restaurant with amazing pizza and pasta dishes.
Toro Tapas — A lovely place with tapas, who also offer vegetarian and vegan options.
For dessert, visit the Daver Cafe which is located just around the corner off the main shopping street. The cafe offers a great selection of pastries, cakes and turrons at a reasonable price.
If you liked this post, visit this one about a weekend trip to Granada.
Photographer & Content Writer: Veronica Zdybel & Mark Leahy