Amongst the most famous of Andalucía's 19 ‘Pueblos Blancos’ and visited by the likes of Hemingway and Dumas, Ronda is a hugely popular holiday destination. It’s also one of Spain’s oldest towns, established in the 9th Century B.C. and boasting a fascinating history. Whether you’re tempted in by southern Spain’s rich culture, it’s striking natural wonders or its excellent food, Ronda is a marvellous base for discovering the Cádiz region. Accommodation options are wide-ranging; our pick of the best places to stay in Ronda have been carefully selected for their exceptional location, style and amenities. A couple of the properties are in town, but the others are scattered around the countryside close by.

Originally a Moorish settlement, La Ciudad, Ronda’s old town, was once dotted with beautiful mosques, gardens and palaces. It’s now a superb place for a stroll, with well-preserved 14th-century Arabic baths and narrow lanes lined with whitewashed buildings. The Museo Lara offers a curious insight into the area’s past, whilst the striking Plaza de Toros, Spain’s oldest bullring, is notable as the place in which the official rules of bullfighting were decided.

Set precariously close to El Tajo Gorge, Ronda is divided into two, with the 18th-century Puente Nuevo connecting the old and new parts of town. Admire epic views from atop the bridge and on hikes through the forested gorge: the bridge is undoubtedly Ronda’s most iconic landmark. Nature lovers can also enjoy mountain biking, horse riding and bird watching in the surrounding area. The Cueva de Pileta is home to fascinating 25,000-year-old cave paintings, which are well worth seeing. With so much to discover, the best places to stay in Ronda book up quickly — travel outside the school holidays if you can!

The Best Places to Stay in Ronda

For a Central Stay

• Hotel San Gabriel has rooms bedecked with antiques and artwork. An old townhouse in the heart of medieval Ronda, it's perfect for exploring on foot before returning to big beds with carved headboards and patterned quilts. The mini-cinema is a real treat. Well-located and great value for heritage buffs.
• Hotel Alavera de los Baños is a charming rustic retreat close to the Arab baths, just beyond Ronda's old town. Pick this place for the tranquil feel and the proximity to the town centre. Lounge by the pool, in the flower-filled gardens or in the library during the hottest part of the day. Vibrant, quirky and characterful.

For Families

• Cortijo Las Piletas is a white farmhouse surrounded by sunflower fields and a nature park. Guest rooms offer flexible spaces for families, who will also adore the swimming pool, lunchtime picnics and plethora or outdoorsy activities. Gather for table d'hôte dinners in the evenings. Low-key and great fun.

For an Olive Mill Escape

• Molino del Arco sits between olive trees and vineyards. Having retained much of its original architecture, this converted olive mill offers traditional guest rooms with beamed ceilings, terracotta tiled floors and crisp white linens. A family-run favourite, which continues to produce olive oil.
• Molino del Santo is another restored olive mill, this time lovingly converted to create a simple oasis for spending time with friends and family. Think pared-back, old-school style in rooms with floral fabrics and embroidered bedspreads. The gardens and shaded terraces are perfect for kicking back with a good book or savouring garden-fresh produce. Lovely.
• La Fuente de la Higuera began life as an olive mill. Now, graceful manicured gardens surround a tasteful country house hotel with indulgent bedrooms featuring whitewashed walls, four-poster beds and private balconies. The food is fabulous, the gardens and swimming pool are very peaceful, and the team are wonderfully attentive. A special, romantic escape.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport or to Gibraltar International Airport, both between 1.5 and 2 hours by road from Ronda. Alternatively, travel directly to Ronda by train from destinations such as Córdoba and Madrid.
• Andalucía is wonderful for a road trip, and the mountains are best explored with the flexibility of your own transport. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures ranging from 24°C - 30°C between June and August. For fewer crowds and cooler climes, travel in April - May or September - October. These are great months for outdoor adventures.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Arcos de la Frontera.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Andalucía.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

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