Famous worldwide for its dramatic gorge, the mountain top town of Ronda is one of Spain’s most spectacular sites. The ‘old’ and ‘new’ town is split by the Tajo Gorge as if by magic and is connected by the Puente Nuevo 'new' bridge. For the thousands of visitors who flock here every year, they make this their first stop - and for good reason. The views are spellbinding. Deep in the chasm of the gorge snakes the Guadalevín river flowing over rocks and boulders making it a popular trail for canyoners. Rock climbers can also be spotted scaling the dizzying heights of the golden gorge walls. Beyond, farmland, olive groves and mountains stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s little wonder that the famous American writers Earnest Hemingway and Orson Welles were inspired to live here. Apart from dramatic views, the town boasts a rich history. The Celts were the first settlers back in 6th Century BC, and over the centuries, Ronda was taken over by the Phoenicians, Romans, Visigoths and Berbers. This diverse cultural tapestry can be explored through Ronda’s beautiful palaces, churches, squares, museums, Arabic baths and monuments peppered around the labyrinth of streets lined with tapas bars, shops and restaurants. The most notorious site is the Plaza de Toros, one of Spain’s oldest bullrings set in a stunning piazza surrounded by gardens leading to the cliff edge. Our favourite way to savour all the delights this wonderful pueblo has to offer is on a walking tour. The day typically starts with a stroll along the bridge before following the winding path into the belly of the gorge to take in the incredible vistas from the bottom up. Along the way, your guide will share stories of Ronda’s fascinating history whilst leading you through the pretty cobbled streets and alleyways. After working up an appetite, you’ll settle at a wonderful Spanish restaurant and sample the area’s gastronomical delights on a sun-dappled terrace. Ronda has a thriving foodie scene, and is peppered with delicious delicatessens where you can pick up goodies to take home.

Distance: One hour drive