Ronda

Settled by the Phoenecians around the 7th century BC, later conquered by the Muslims and finally settling under Spanish rule, Ronda has had a long and varied history marked by war, trade, and geographic wonder.  Today, most visit the small town of Ronda in order to enjoy is rustic charms, photograph the dramatic landscape and taste some of the local wineries of the region.

Described by many travelers as a bit “off the beaten path,” the somewhat circuitous road leading up to the town is marked by the beautiful Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun) terrain. Mountainous and Mediterranean climate are good for wine, and some notable local wineries are located in this district and may be visited along the way.

Upon arrival in Ronda, many note the El Tajo gorge that splits the town into old and new districts, and the Punte Nuevo bridge connecting the two. A photographic delight, the gorge and the bridge create a dramatic backdrop for this small town, and a walk across is enjoyed by many who wish to visit the Islamic old town. Also in the Islamic Old Town, visitors can visit the building where three generations of the Romero family established what is modern day bullfighting and see some of the ancient (14th century) baths that are still in operation today.