A Hidden Gem Just a Short Drive Away
When most people think of Andalusia, their minds drift to golden beaches, coastal resorts, and endless sunshine. But the heart of this southern Spanish region beats strongest inland, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge. Just over an hour from Sotogrande, the hilltop city of Ronda offers an unforgettable day trip—or even a weekend escape—that showcases a very different, and perhaps more authentic, side of Andalusia.
Located approximately 90 minutes by car from Sotogrande (around 75 km), Ronda is perched in the Serranía de Ronda, part of the wider Malaga province. The scenic drive from the coast winds through the picturesque cork oak forests of the Los Alcornocales Natural Park and offers dramatic mountain views along the way. Whether you take the A-369 from Gaucín or pass through Estepona and take the A-397, the journey itself is part of the adventure.
More Than Just a View: The Legendary Puente Nuevo
Ronda is perhaps most famous for its jaw-dropping gorge—El Tajo—and the 18th-century Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), which spans the 120-metre-deep canyon and connects the old and new parts of the city. This architectural marvel, completed in 1793, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a must for photographers and romantics alike.
But Ronda’s charm doesn’t end with the view. It’s a city steeped in history, dating back to Roman times when it was known as Arunda. Later, it flourished under Moorish rule, and evidence of its Islamic past can still be seen in the architecture and winding alleyways of the old town.
What to See and Do in Ronda
Plaza de Toros: One of the oldest bullrings in Spain, Ronda’s Plaza de Toros was built in 1785 and remains a symbol of the city’s deep connection to bullfighting. Even if you’re not a fan of the tradition, the museum and architecture are worth a visit.
La Casa del Rey Moro: This 18th-century palace features lush gardens designed by Jean Claude Forestier and a staircase carved into the rock that descends into the gorge—once used as an escape route.
Arab Baths: Located in the old Moorish quarter, these are among the best-preserved in Spain and offer insight into life under Islamic rule.
Wine Tasting: Ronda has a growing reputation for boutique wineries. Take time to visit a local bodega, such as Descalzos Viejos or Bodega Joaquín Fernández, and sample some of the region’s emerging red wines.
Ronda is not just a city of stone and history—its natural surroundings are equally captivating. The nearby Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park offers hiking, birdwatching, and wild swimming opportunities. The landscape is surprisingly lush, thanks to the area’s microclimate, and contrasts beautifully with the arid coastlines often associated with Andalusia.
From Sotogrande to Ronda: Easy and Worthwhile
Whether you’re staying in Sotogrande as a resident, a holidaymaker, or exploring property investment opportunities in the region, Ronda makes for an ideal inland getaway. In fact, the contrast between coastal sophistication and rural authenticity is what makes Andalusia such an appealing place to live and explore. The drive to Ronda is smooth, with well-maintained roads and plenty of scenic stops along the way—think white villages like Gaucín or Jimena de la Frontera.
While Ronda can be experienced in a single day, consider staying overnight in one of its charming boutique hotels or rural guesthouses. As the day-trippers leave, the city takes on a quieter, more romantic air. Sunset from the Puente Nuevo or dinner on a terrace overlooking the gorge offers a peaceful contrast to the beachside buzz of the Costa del Sol.
Experience the Real Andalusia
Visiting Ronda from Sotogrande is more than a sightseeing trip—it’s an invitation to explore the soul of Andalusia. It’s about trading palm trees and yachts for olive groves and centuries-old legends, even just for a day. In a region known internationally for its beaches, discovering Ronda is a powerful reminder that there’s so much more to this land than sun and sea.
So next time you’re in Sotogrande, looking for an enriching escape inland, let Ronda surprise you. Because some of Andalusia’s most compelling stories are told not by the waves, but by the rocks, the bridges, and the mountains.