Walking around spectacular Ronda

With its cliff-top location and mountainous surroundings, Ronda‘s most striking feature is without a doubt its geographic position. Add to that three bridges spanning over a ravine as well as historic houses hanging at the edge of a cliff and you have all the ingredients for a gem of a travel destination. Since most visitors venture to Ronda to experience its natural beauty, see its bridges and Moorish historic center, it is an ideal destination for the budget traveler.

Amateur and professional photographers, as well as those who are there to simply take in the views, won’t be disappointed.

Ronda on the map

Located in the province of Malaga in Andalusia, an autonomous region in southern Spain, Ronda is positioned northwest of the city of Malaga, southeast of Seville, and southwest of Madrid. The Guadalevin River, which flows through the El Tajo canyon, divides the new town (El Mercadillo) from the old town (La Ciudad).

Ronda is accessible by car, bus or rail. We visited Ronda on a day trip during our stay near the coast in the Costa del Sol. From our rural accommodations near Mijas, we took the A7 heading west and then headed north on the A376, a scenic winding, mountainous road. The incredible scenery to and from Ronda is part of the experience of visiting this Andalusian town and worth the trip.

Attractions in Ronda, Spain

Although Ronda is renown for its spectacular views, it is also known for its three bridges that traverse the El Tajo Canyon; namely, El Puente Nuevo (the New Bridge), El Puente Romano (Roman Bridge), and El Puente Viejo (Old Bridge). “El Puente Nuevo” is the city’s most famous bridge. Other popular attractions are the pavilion along the walkway near El Puente Nuevo, as well as Ronda’s historic center, which includes Ronda’s cathedral, Santa Maria la Mayor, several churches, Arab baths, and a number of shops.

Prior to visiting the old town, you might want to stop by the bullring arena (Plaza de Toros), located right across from the information center, where they will provide you with a free tourist map. It’s possible to visit the historic center on foot – just make you way over to El Puente Nuevo. After taking in the views and taking advantage of the photo opportunities along the walkway by the El Tajo ravine, cross the bridge over to the historic center. After visiting the churches and shops, and walking along with parts of the historic wall, you can make your way back towards the new town via El Puente Viejo.

Source Squidoo