Ronda is a city that captivates the imagination. Perched atop a vertiginous gorge, it offers a unique fusion of history, culture and natural beauty. During my three-day stay, I had the opportunity to explore the many facets of this Andalusian city, learn about its fascinating past and immerse myself in its unique atmosphere.
Day 1: Architectural splendor and panoramic views
Upon my arrival, I was struck by the majesty of the Puente Nuevo, an undisputed symbol of Ronda. This bridge, completed in 1793, crosses the gorge of El Tajo with an impressive audacity. The view from the bridge is simply breathtaking: the deep gorge, the white houses clinging to the cliffs and the rolling landscapes of the Serranía de Ronda extend as far as the eye can see.
To fully appreciate the grandeur of the Puente Nuevo, I took the path that goes down in the gorge. The path zunique views of the bridge, highlighting its imposing architecture and harmonious integration with the landscape. Below, the sound of water flowing down the throat adds a touch of serenity to the atmosphere.
The Casa del Rey Moro, dating from the fourteenth century, was my next stop. Its lush gardens, adorned with fountains and shady patios, offer an oasis of freshness and tranquility. The main attraction of the house is La Mina, a secret staircase carved in the rock that descends to the bottom of the gorge. The descent is a journey through history, with each walk testifying to the ingenuity of the Moors who built this work to ensure the water supply of the city.
After a day full of discoveries, I tasted tapas in a restaurant in the historic center. Tapas, small portions of varied dishes, is a Spanish tradition that allows you to taste a multitude of flavors. Accompanied by a glass of local wine, they offer a delicious introduction to Andalusian cuisine.
Day 2: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Ronda
In the morning, I visited the Mondragón Palace, a building that has passed through the ages, passing from the hands of the Moorish governors to the Catholic kings. Now a municipal museum, the palace traces the history of Ronda through its various rooms and exhibitions.
The Church of Santa María la Mayor, located in the heart of the old town, is a testimony to the fusion of Christian and Muslim cultures. Built on the remains of a mosque, the church has an elegant Gothic architecture with decorative elements of Islamic inspiration.
In the afternoon, I decided to go hiking in the Serranía de Ronda. The Los Molinos trail, which winds through spectacular mountain scenery, offers breathtaking views of the Puente Nuevo and the bottom of the gorge. Hiking is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the surrounding nature, admire the Mediterranean flora and breathe the pure air of the mountains.
At the end of the day, I enjoyed a relaxing moment at the Spa-Hammam Aguas de Ronda. Traditional Arab baths, followed by a relaxing massage, revitalized me after a day of exploration.
Day 3: Bullfighting tradition and the charm of historic districts
The bullring of Ronda, considered as the cradle of modern bullfighting, was my first stop of the day. The visit to the bullfighting museum gave me a better understanding of the history of bullfighting in Spain and its cultural importance in Ronda. The architecture of the arena is impressive, and the atmosphere is steeped in history and tradition.
I then explored the La Merced district, a maze of narrow cobbled streets lined with white houses and flowery patios. The area is home to many craft workshops, where you can find unique souvenirs such as hand-painted ceramics or leather objects.
For my last meal in Ronda, I chose a restaurant with panoramic views of the El Tajo gorge. The view was as tasty as the dishes served, and I took advantage of this moment to savor one last time the beauty of the city.
Beyond the sights, Ronda offers a multitude of authentic experiences.
- I particularly enjoyed getting lost in the winding streets of the old town, discovering its hidden squares and secret patios.
- Tasting local wines, such as the Serranía de Ronda, allowed me to discover the unique flavors of the region.
- A flamenco show in a tablao was an unforgettable experience. The passion and intensity of the dancers transported me to another world.
- The lively nightlife of Ronda also seduced me. Tapas bars, restaurants and nightclubs offer a variety of options for all tastes.
My trip to Ronda was a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
The city has exceeded my expectations, offering me a perfect blend of history, culture and natural beauty. I left Ronda with precious memories and the desire to return one day to explore its secrets further.