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Ronda

Ronda in Malaga

Serrania de Ronda is a region located in the heart of Andalusia, in the western part of the province of Málaga. It is known for its beautiful mountainous landscape and its rich culture. The region is home to many charming white villages and historic towns, including Ronda, which serves as the administrative capital of the region.

History of Serrania de Ronda

Serrania de Ronda has a long and rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to prehistoric times. Over the centuries, it has been inhabited by various peoples, including Iberians, Romans, and Moors. During the Moorish period, Serranía de Ronda was an important agricultural region and a center of trade and commerce.

After the Reconquista, when Christian forces retook control of the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule, many Moors were forced to leave Serranía de Ronda. However, some remained and continued to practice their religion and customs in secret. In the 19th century, Serranía de Ronda experienced a period of economic growth thanks to its agricultural production and the development of new industries such as textile manufacturing.

One interesting aspect of Serranía de Ronda’s history is its association with banditry. In the 19th century, bandits known as “bandoleros” roamed the mountains and countryside of Andalusia, including Serranía de Ronda. These Andalusian bandits were often outlaws who had turned to a life of crime due to poverty or persecution. They became legendary figures in Andalusian folklore and their exploits are still remembered today.

Tourist Attractions in Serranía de Ronda

Serranía de Ronda has much to offer tourists. Its beautiful mountainous landscape offers opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities, while its historic towns and white villages are rich in culture and history. Some popular tourist attractions in Serranía de Ronda include:

  • The Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) in Ronda – a bridge spanning the El Tajo gorge that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The Bullring of Ronda – one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, built in the 18th century.
  • The Arab Baths in Ronda – well-preserved Moorish baths dating back to the 13th century.
  • The Cueva del Gato (Cat Cave) – a cave featuring an underground river and a waterfall.

Natural Environment

Serranía de Ronda is also home to many natural attractions that are sure to delight nature lovers. The region’s mountainous landscape offers opportunities for hiking and exploring stunning natural landscapes. Some ideas for outdoor activities in Serranía de Ronda include:

  • Hiking in Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park – a protected area featuring rugged mountain landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
  • Exploring Los Alcornocales Natural Park – a protected area featuring cork oak forests and diverse wildlife.
  • Visiting El Chorro – a scenic area featuring dramatic gorges and rock formations.

Gastronomy

Serranía de Ronda is also known for its delicious cuisine. The region’s gastronomy is characterized by hearty dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients such as game meat, vegetables, and legumes. Some traditional dishes from Serranía de Ronda include:

  • Rabo de toro (oxtail stew) – a hearty stew made with oxtail, vegetables, and red wine.
  • Migas (fried breadcrumbs) – a dish made with fried breadcrumbs, garlic, peppers, and chorizo sausage.
  • Gazpacho (cold soup) – a refreshing cold soup made with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, bread, and olive oil.
  • Chivo lechal (suckling goat) – roast suckling goat served with potatoes and vegetables.

Festivals and Cultural Events

Serranía de Ronda is also home to many festivals and cultural events throughout the year. These include:

  • The Feria de Pedro Romero (Pedro Romero Fair) in Ronda – a week-long festival held in September featuring bullfights, parades, music, and dancing.
  • The Festival de Cante Grande (Great Singing Festival) in Ronda – a flamenco festival held in August featuring performances by top flamenco artists.
  • The Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations in towns throughout Serranía de Ronda – week-long celebrations leading up to Easter featuring processions and religious ceremonies.
  • The Fiestas Patronales (Patron Saint Festivals) held in towns throughout Serranía de Ronda – festivals held throughout the year celebrating each town’s patron saint with music, dancing, food, and religious ceremonies.
  • The Noche en Blanco (White Night) in Ronda – an annual event held in May featuring music, art exhibitions, and cultural activities throughout the town.

List of villages

Find below villages in the Serrania de Ronda region of Malaga:

Hotels in the region

Benaojan

Cueva del Gato Rural Hotel - Ronda Hotels

HOTEL RURAL CUEVA DEL GATO
Ctra. Benaoján – Ronda, km 3
Tel. 952167296 – Fax 952167404
hotelcuevadelgato.com

HOTEL RURAL MOLINO DEL SANTO
Bda. Estación, s/n
Tel. 952167151 – Fax 952167327
molinodelsanto.com

Cortes de la Frontera

SOL Y SIERRA
Avda. Sol y Sierra, s/n
Tel.952154523 – Fax 952154518

El Burgo

LA CASA GRANDE DEL BURGO
c/ Mesones, 1
Tel.952160232 – Fax 952160252
hotel-lacasagrande.com

HOTEL POSADA DEL CANÓNIGO
C/ San Pedro de Osma, 19
Tel. 952160185 – Fax 952160185
posadadelcanonigo.es

Ronda

HOTEL MONTELIRIO
C/ Tenorio, 8
Tel. 952873855 – Fax. 952161185
hotelmontelirio.com

HOTEL SAN GABRIEL
C/ Marques de Moctezuma, 19
Tel. 952190392 – Fax. 952190117
hotelsangabriel.com

HOTEL LA ESPAÑOLA
C/ Jose Aparicio, 5
Tel. 952873488 – Fax 952879903

Tolox

HOTEL DEL BALNEARIO
C/ Extramuros, s/n
Tel. 952487091 – Fax 952487462
www.balneariodetolox.es/en/

PENSIÓN MARTÍN
Ctra. del Balneario, 67
Tel. 952487049

HOSTAL LA TORRECILLA
Avda. del Balneario, 33
Tel. 952487215