When our clients stay in Seville for more than a few days, we always recommend an easy day trip to explore some of the rural areas and white towns of Andalusia. And a day trip to Ronda is one of our absolute favorites. Why? Ronda is both quaint and magnificent. It has simple pleasures and jaw-dropping views. It’s in the middle of the countryside and yet you you have access to everything you could possibly need: rich history, great wineries, phenomenal food, plush hotels, and more.
Ronda is great for families too and there are activities for everyone (as you’ll see in the photos below!). It’s also somehow lovely in every season and less than a two-hour drive from Seville, meaning in no time at all you can be hiking green trails and getting a taste of small-town Spanish life. In other words, a day trip to Ronda is a serious must. Here’s how to make the most of it.
Where to Sleep in Ronda
There is truly no better spot in Ronda than Hotel Fuente de la Higuera. It’s technically just outside the main town, but the remote feeling of countryside life is part of the draw. The small boutique property overlooks a valley of olive groves and has perfectly designed rooms, many of which include a luxurious bathtub with a view. The food is perfect, and though there’s so much to explore in town, it’s often so hard to leave this idyllic little enclave!
What to See & Do in Ronda
Walk the bridge
Ronda’s most famous emblem is the Puente Nuevo (the new bridge) that stretches from one side of the city to the next and sits atop of bracingly steep gorge. Despite the name, the bridge was complete in the late 1700s, and offers up some of the most phenomenal views and photo ops everywhere you turn. There is an official viewpoint area on one side of the city, as well as various viewpoints above and below, which are absolute musts on your day trop to Ronda.
Hike the trails
Below the bridge and down the gorge, Ronda opens up into a plethora of fields, forests, and lush trails. Take the steps down from the bridge and go on a morning hike around the area. Another option is a venture to La Casa del Rey Moro, where you can wander down the many steps into a secret water mine in the middle of the Tajo River. Michelle Obama even toured this spot when she was in Ronda!
Visit a local winery
Along with olives, grapes are one of the primary crops in the area, so you’d be remiss to not give the local juice a try. Bodega Descalzos Viejos, just a quick 10-minute drive from Hotel Fuente de la Higuera, is the perfect spot. The winery is tucked into the hills and housed in an ancient convent. Luckily, their wines are just as stunning as the surroundings.
Where to Eat in Ronda
As in most parts of Andalusia, good meals abound. And Ronda is no exception. For a really excellent meal on the traditional side, we love Casa María. Just make sure you come hungry, cause this family-owned kitchen knows how to fill your stomach! For slightly more upscale and innovative, Tragatá continues to wow us with their creative takes on classic tapas. Do not miss their famous ensaladilla, a style of potato salad popular in the area.
For an even more stunning meal, check out the Michelin-star experience at Bardal, the upscale sister restaurant of Tragatá. And if you feel like staying in for the night, the kitchen at Fuente de la Higuera, also turns out especially fresh and elegant food you can’t miss on your stay.
Already planning your trip to Seville? Add Ronda to your wishlist and we’ll be sure you see and experience each of these musts and more. Reach out to us at Spain Savvy and we’ll make it happen.