Best things to do in Ronda

The town of Ronda seems impossibly perched atop El Tajo de Ronda, a 130 m (427 ft) canyon yielding views at once spectacular and a little bit frightening. Completed in 1793, the Puente Nuevo spans the gorge, its old age lending it splendor, while making the prospect of crossing slightly unnerving at the same time. If you’re up for a hike, walk the path from town down into the gorge and pass under this bridge, the tallest of three. Stop in the bridge’s small museum, detailing its history and that of the town.

Puente Nuevo is the newest and largest of three bridges that span the 120-m (390-ft) chasm that carries the Guadalevín River and divides the city of Ronda. For views of the 18th-century bridge itself, head to the Plaza Maria Auxiliadora. To learn more about how the bridge was built and why its chamber was used as a prison, go to the visitors’ center. Take in the views of the surrounding natural landscape, but be very careful near the edge.

Explore the heart of one of Spain's most distinctive destinations as you wander through Old City. Ronda's historical neighborhood boasts dramatic scenery, desirable views over the nearby valley, and a host of well-preserved historical architecture. Saunter across the high-arched bridge, admire churches dating as far back as the 9th century, and enjoy a coffee at a buzzing plaza.

Spend a day in the countryside tasting artisan wines and delicious homemade tapas at Bodega Garcia Hidalgo. Nestled in a picturesque river valley among fertile orchards, this little winery has been opened since 2006, drawing gastronomes and oenophiles from near and far. Friendly and welcoming owners will not only quench your thirst for wines but for knowledge also. Tour the vineyard and learn all about the winemaking process, then cool off in the wine cellar before sampling championship standard wines in the shady courtyard. The winery also offers accommodations.

Wander through the remains, passageways, and the underground chambers of Baños Arabes, the best conserved thermal baths from the Moorish times on the Iberian Peninsula. Tucked in at the old Arab quarter of the town, these 13th-century baths were located at the main entrance to the medina next to a mosque, so that the devotees could stop for ritual ablution before praying. The interior remains lit thanks to numerous star-shaped skylights. Take a few minutes to watch a short video and learn more about the layout and function of the baths. Note that this attraction is situated at the bottom of the gorge, so be prepared to take a steep hike back up to the main square.

Step into a grim reality of Museo Lara and see the diverse collection of curiosities of Juan Antonio Lara Jury. Starting with a large collection of watches on the main floor, stroll through the halls of the museum to see old sewing machines and typewriters next to handguns and microscopes. Descend into the basement to experience the truly unique part of the museum--the exhibition of witchcraft and the Spanish Inquisition's sinister torture devices, including a stretching rack with a display mannequins. Gaze at immitation dragons, life-sized mermaids, and werewolf taxidermy, part fo the monstrous experience.

Take a bull by its horns and get to know the life of these creatures by visiting Reservatauro Ronda. This farm with bulls and horses provides a place where you can see these animals up close, learn about their breeding and habitats, and pet the young ones. The owner used to be a bullfighter, and he will educate you about that world by sharing his knowledge and expertise.

Breathe in the fragrances, admire the vineyards, and learn about winemaking at Dona Felisa Winery. Nestled among the lush rolling hills near the ancient Roman city of Acinipo, this small family-owned winery was founded in 1999. Start your visit with a tour of the vineyards, and finish it by sampling four delicious wines over a plate of homemade tapas. Your most-likely host will be the charming granddaughter of the founders accompanied by her little dog.

Although Casa Del Rey Moro claims to have once been the home of a Moorish king, in reality the house wasn't built until the 18th century, and the "Moorish" garden wasn't installed until 1912. However, the water mine (steps leading to a well) is a relic dating back to the Moorish period. The entry to the well is in the gardens. The steps get slippery and narrow in places, so use caution when descending into the rooms below. When in the well, or the "Room of Secrets," stand against one wall and ask a fellow guest to stand against the opposite wall, then ask another to stand in the center of the room. Whisper a secret message while you are standing against the wall, then listen to the response from the person opposite you. You'll hear each other, but the guest in the center of the room won't hear a thing.

El Torcal de Antequera offers impressive views of an expansive stretch of dramatic natural rock formations. Limestone from the Jurassic era remained here after the prehistoric sea dried up. The formations left behind now have names: the Sphinx, the Jug, the Camel, the Screw, and more. Keep an eye out for wild roses; orchids, of which there are 30 varieties in the park; and wildlife, such as the Andalusian mountain goat. Scenic viewpoints are accessible from all the hiking trails. As long as it’s not one of the busier weekends of the year, you can take your car all the way to the upper visitors’ center.

Stop at Mirador de los Viajeros Romanticos and soak in the sublime views of the river valley, deep gorge, and the famous bridge that spans across it. See for yourself why this sublime landscape has drawn and inspired generations of artists and writers, such as Orson Wells and Ernest Hemingway. Cozy restaurants and artisan shops are within walking distance. Note that the area can get quite busy at times.